A bike ride that takes you along 125 species of magnolias, beautiful orchards, and forests that transform into a grand carpet of flowers: you can't miss this colorful bike ride. Don't wait too long, as before you know it, this blossom beauty will be gone.

We depart from Castle Sterckshof (junction 3, Sterckshoflei). From there, we enter the provincial domain Rivierenhof. It is the perfect season, as the many magnolia trees and ornamental cherries immerse the 130-hectare domain in a soft pink and white ambiance. The magnolia is cherished for its beautiful flowers. But what many do not know is how many different species exist. The expansion of the collection in Rivierenhof started in 2005 and now includes no less than 125 varieties that differ significantly. We also pass by Wisteria Lane, where the soccer field next to the mini-golf has been transformed into an avenue with hanging blue rains.

We first pass the provincial campus of AVANT (HP 1), leave Rivierenhof via junctions 11 and 63, and ride through the Ringpark Groot Schijn, an area of about 83 hectares. The park is part of the large landscape parks that the city is developing around the Ring. The park follows the path of the Schijn. What used to be a mishmash of clubs and associations has grown since 2018 into a sports and recreation park, as well as a meeting place for local residents, walkers, and cyclists.

After junction 77, we enter the Zevenbergen Forest, an area of 58 hectares that, along with Muizenbos and Hoge Aard, forms the Forest of Ranst. The spring flora here is among the most beautiful and varied in the province. In the middle, we encounter a carpet of white wood anemones. Occasionally, we find the slender primrose, spotted arum lily, or buttercup among them. In total, depending on the season, you can find about 300 plant species here. Natuurpunt, the manager of this area, has also found no less than 700 species of night moths here. Along the way, we hear woodpeckers at work.

At the edge of the forest, we arrive at Hof Zevenbergen with the Our Lady of Lourdes cave (HP 2). Those who wish can stop for a drink in the center of Ranst. From junction 84, the landscape opens up further. Here begins the countryside with fields, old farms, and meadows full of fruit trees. Vremde has historically been known as an agricultural municipality. Even today, there are still quite a few agricultural businesses active.

At junction 84, we stop at the Our Lady Assumed into Heaven chapel of Millegem (HP 3) and then proceed to the charming village of Vremde. The St. John in the Oil church towers above the houses in the square, and those who look around will spot the ‘new’ rectory (today: restaurant Fellini). This rectory, built between 1853 and 1856, stands right next to the old rectory, which serves as a parish hall. Around the square, there are several cozy cafes and restaurants. The village center is perfect for taking a break. Sitting on a bench or at one of the terraces is delightful.

The last kilometers, via junctions 17 and 6, bring us back towards Deurne. At junction 2, we pass by the fort of Borsbeek. Fort 3 is the first built fort of the Brialmont fortification belt around Antwerp and has been restored. After half an hour, we arrive back at Rivierenhof, where we enjoy a refreshing drink in the garden of Bar Stark.