Oudenaarde city walk

Perhaps you’re already a fan of Oudenaarde, or perhaps not yet. After this surprising city walk through Oudenaarde, you will undoubtedly become one. This city in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes has a lot in store for you. From luxurious tapestries to Unesco World Heritage, the Tour of Flanders, a peaceful beguinage and a mass of outdoor activities: Oudenaarde has it all!

Oudenaarde + Tour of Flanders = legendary

Few cities are so intertwined with the most beautiful race in Flanders as Oudenaarde. Everyone knows the famous inclines and the finish line that made many iconic cyclists burst into tears of joy. But are you also familiar with the extensive, modern Tour of Flanders Centre? You can soak up the true atmosphere of Flanders’ Finest here all year round.

Not only can you soak up the atmosphere, but you can also cycle the route yourself. You can hire bicycles from the Tour of Flanders Centre or bring your own. Afterwards, pop in and visit the impressive exhibition or enjoy a chilled beer in the cafeteria.

Visit the Tour of Flanders Centre! 

An oasis of culture

Oudenaarde is bursting with history and thus also with culture. The city is full of architectural gems, each telling its own story. Stop at the St Walburga Church, a Brabantine Gothic jewel. This building from the 12th century is worth a visit. Step inside and admire breathtaking paintings, tapestries, sculptures and a carillon with no fewer than 49 bells!

If you walk a little further, you will come across the Town Hall. This bit of world heritage - recognised by UNESCO - is not only beautiful to look at, it also houses the MOU, a fascinating and inspiring city museum. Dive into the stories of luxurious, handmade tapestries, the history of countless buildings in the city, and painter Adriaen Brouwer who was born in Oudenaarde.

Pure tranquillity in the beguinage

If you continue your walk through the beautiful Hospital of Our Lady and the ‘Bisschopskwartier’, you will arrive at a baroque gate that has been painted red. When you walk through it, you will suddenly find yourself in another world.

The beguinage of Oudenaarde was built in the 15th century and still looks beautiful. The small, white houses around the courtyard full of perfectly maintained flower arrangements are a treat for the eyes. You will feel calm in this little paradise in the middle of the bustling city.

Take a break and wet your whistle!

Did all that beauty make you hungry and thirsty? Fortunately, Oudenaarde is full of nice shops, cafés and restaurants. How about ØKKERENNOOT, a super lunch spot that serves healthy and delicious food. Or you can choose to skip the health food because its selection of sweet sins looks just as tasty. The minimalist, Scandinavian interior will make you feel completely zen.

A must-see!

Next stop: the Our Lady of Pamele Church, a fine piece of architecture on the right bank of the Scheldt River. The town of Pamele was founded by the Lord of Pamele. Chances are you have never heard of it. That is because it was absorbed by Oudenaarde in 1593. But you can still visit the traces of its existence, and this church is the absolute highlight.

To continue with a religious theme, walk towards Maagdendaele Abbey. The monastic order of Cîteaux erected this building. It was severely damaged during the French Restoration, but was later rebuilt. It currently houses the local art academy.