6x hiking trails in nature parks in Flanders

The Muziekbos walking route in Ronse takes you through a stunning landscape in the Flemish Ardennes. Begin your adventure at the IJsmolenhoeve, where you can smell the aroma of freshly baked pancakes from afar. You’ll then walk through the dense Muziekbos; however, the forest didn’t get its name from music but is derived from the word ‘muz’, the Celtic word for ‘marsh’. At the top of the Muziekberg, you’ll be rewarded with a stunning view over the Trosbeek Valley, with the Geuzentoren towering over the region. The walk through the Muziekbos is an excellent choice for anyone looking for walking routes in the Flemish Ardennes.
Tip: The route is around ten kilometres long, with a shorter, five-kilometre alternative for families.

In the Flemish Ardennes, you will find many hiking trails. The 12.7 kilometres long Berendries walk challenges you with winding paths, steep slopes and views that make your heart beat faster. Step deep into the forest, where wood anemones and violets bloom in certain seasons. Keep your eyes open, because with any luck you might spot a rare brook trout or even a fire salamander.

But this walking route is more than just nature; this route is famous in the cycling world. The Berendries is a real leg burner, but the reward is great: beautiful views over the rolling landscape of the Zwalm region and the Scheldt valley. The trails of this route in the Flemish Ardennes are for beginners and experienced hikers alike.

Have you always wanted to explore the Tour of Flanders? Now’s your chance! On the ‘Along the Climbs of the Tour’ walking route , you’ll walk 15.3 kilometres through the beautiful Flemish Ardennes. You’ll pass iconic climbs such as the Koppenberg and Kortekeer. You’ll pass through the Spijkerbos, where children can play, and be treated to breathtaking views along the way, such as the view at junction 81. This is one of the walking routes through the Flemish Ardennes that you won’t want to miss!
Fancy a bite to eat? During the walk, you’ll pass the cosy Eetcafé Den Os, where you can enjoy traditional Flemish delicacies such as slow-cooked bacon with golden-brown chips and a fresh salad. Prefer something vegetarian? Then try the tasty veggie patty with creamy endive.

Fancy a challenge? The National Park Trail in the Hoge Kempen is a 110-kilometre route. In five adventurous stages, you walk over the Oudsberg, Flanders' highest land dune, or along former mining ridges that now form green hills. Along the way, you cross vast forests and pass idyllic fens such as the Zwarte Beek, a perfect place for a short break. You can choose to hike the whole route in several days, or choose to walk just one trail. For a special overnight stay, you can stay in Warredal' s atmospheric treehouses in the middle of nature.

Fact: The trail is one of the best long-distance walks in Europe and was awarded the Leading Quality Label in 2022.

The 11.4-kilometre Premium Walk Pietersheim in the Hoge Kempen is the ultimate combination of nature and history. You start at the Waterburcht, located on the former princely estate Pietersheim. Here you walk through impressive beech avenues in the Pietersheimbos. The route winds along the Asbeek and takes you through the historic estate. Along the way, you will learn all about the glorious history of the moated castle and the surrounding castle avenues. This hiking trail is ideal for a relaxing day in the Hoge Kempen. For example, you can pause at the forest lounge and enjoy the view of nature or unwind at the ponds surrounding the Water Castle.

The 8.2-kilometre Galloway walk in the Kalkense Meersen takes you through the unique nature of the Scheldt valley, also known as the mangrove of Europe. Along the way, you will encounter impressive Galloway cattle, an old Scottish breed with thick fur in shades of black and brown. Bird lovers also enjoy the rich wildlife here, including the lapwing. A highlight on the route is 'Salicetum', a work of art made of thousands of willow branches that highlights the historical and ecological value of willows in the region.

Fancy a break? At Voda Beverage & Eatery you have a view over the Scheldt. Order a vegetable lasagne with various vegetables from the season and enjoy the view. An ideal route for walkers who want to combine animals, art and landscape!