Walking among magnificent panoramas

The Panorama walking route slows you down in style. You start and finish your 16 km hike in Kwaremont, a charming artists’ village in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes. The snow-white St Amand’s Church on the market square is a modest icon in the region. This village has been bursting with creative energy for decades. Come and immerse yourself in the unique atmosphere of this beautiful village.

Kwaremont: picturesque artists’ residence

After the 1940s, Kwaremont grew into a haven for artists. When you discover the village, it feels like you are walking through a tableau. The buildings, layout, light, people... It's no wonder so many creative souls were attracted to this inspiring place.

One gallery after another sprang up here in the 1970s and 1980s. Kwaremont acquired a rock-solid reputation as an arts centre and became known as the Sint-Martens-Latem of the Flemish Ardennes. With that reputation, day-trippers naturally followed. Nevertheless, this village has managed to keep its quiet soul.

Heading towards unforgettable landscapes!

Leave Kwaremont behind for the time being and set off for the Panorama walking route. It soon becomes clear why this route was given this name. 

Just look left in Keuzelingsstraat; you can see Anzegem in the distance, like a dot on the horizon. In front of you is the sloping Patersberg, and a little further on, at Hof Ter Plancken, you have a view of landscapes that seem to be straight out of a movie. The cobbled sections down here can be a tough challenge, with a gradient that will put your hiking boots to the test.

Southern sunlight and hilltops

If you continue walking past Zulzeke, you will come to the path that leads to the Spijkerbos (Nail forest). The name is not the only thing that’s original about this forest. The entire forest is on the southern flank of a hill – unique in the Flemish Ardennes. 

When the sun shines, its warmth covers the forest all day long. You can then walk in the sunshine the entire day, from morning to evening. There’s nothing like forgetting the hustle and bustle of life with some sun on your face, is there?

The Hotond: the highest point in East Flanders

A little further on, if you just keep walking, you’ll find the Hotond. This 150m hilltop is the highest in East Flanders. 

The old windmill at the top is now a modern catering establishment called Ten Hotond. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the magnificent views – and a delicious dish from the grill, which is the house’s speciality. There is even a sports hotel here. Handy for when your feet are killing you after a strenuous hike.

Taking time to enjoy

Ten Hotond is not the only tasty stop on your route. In Kwaremont, you’ll find a dazzling array of cafés and restaurants. In de Zon, In ‘t Palet, ‘t Monument, etc. Who knows, you might even decide to stay for a few more days to truly experience the region’s treats.

Does that sound good? There are plenty of options for a cosy overnight stay. Beautiful holiday homes are nestled in the surrounding landscape. They have evocative names like Bellovisto, ‘t Uitzicht, ‘t Nophof and De Flandrienhoeve.