5 challenging hikes

Prepare your legs, because this 22.6 km hike takes you over some steep slopes. Also on the route: the beautiful Muziekbos (music forest), the birthplace of Hercule Poirot and a tower that reminds you of Rapunzel. Fortunately, there are plenty of cafés and restaurants where you can take a break.

Climb the legendary inclines of the Tour of Flanders – without two wheels, if possible. Tackle the Kortekeer, the Rotelenberg and the Koppenberg on a beautiful route that will put your physical fitness to the test. The Flemish Ardennes show their iconic side here. Don’t forget to take a break from all that walking in one of the cosy cafés along the way!

A route based on the life of one of the greatest Flemish painters? Naturally, this provides picturesque scenes of rolling hills and beautiful sunsets. But make no mistake: this walking route is hard work. Fortunately, you’ll pass by Belgium’s oldest family brewery, where the famous Adriaen Brouwer beer simmers in the kettles.

Roaming can be quite intense! This 16.6 km hike takes you along and across the language border. You explore the Brakelbos, climb to the highest point of La Houppe, traverse Bos ter Rijst and follow the rhythm of the Maarkebeek. Refreshing, right? But not as refreshing as a freshly poured beverage in one of the cosy cafés or restaurants on your route.

157 kilometres. No, that’s not a typo. This GR route leads you past all the must-see locations in the Flemish Ardennes. Oudenaarde, Leupegem, Ronse, Kluisbergen, Michelbeke, etc. Play leapfrog with the language border, admire phenomenal views, visit picturesque churches and monuments, and enjoy the hospitality of the local hotels, restaurants and cafés. Don’t forget to reserve a room in one of the B&Bs on the route!