Attractions and Places To See around Harelbeke - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Harelbeke include a mix of historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural areas in the Belgian province of West Flanders. The city offers diverse experiences, from exploring significant religious buildings and war memorials to enjoying the scenic banks of the Leie River. Its surroundings feature expansive natural domains and notable cycling routes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
Best attractions and places to see around Harelbeke
- The most popular attractions is Sint-Pieters Bridge, a…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Sint-Pieters Bridge
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College Bridge
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Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side
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Orveyt Forest
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Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel
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The St. Peter's Bridge dates from 1892. In 2019-2020, it underwent a thorough restoration, requiring its dismantling to be transported to the workshop, where it was carefully cleaned and sandblasted. In addition, some sections were replaced and riveted by hand. No fewer than 1,000 rivets are incorporated into the entire structure. Finally, the bridge was also given a protective coat of paint in striking Brunswick green, its original color. Source: vlaamsewaterweg.be
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This forest was created in the late 1980s on a former clay dump. Over the past 40 years, the approximately 30-hectare area has grown into a natural gem. Together with the Vaarttaluds (a little further towards Bossuit) and the Oude Spoorweg (a little further towards Kortrijk), it forms a beautiful walking area.
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As is the case with many chapels, pieces of cloth are tied to the bars of the door (see, for example, the Passjekapel on the Catsberg in Godewaerdsvelde in French Flanders). This refers to a devotion that is actually based on a Germanic tradition: believers come to the chapel hoping for (or in gratitude for) protection and healing from illnesses that cause fever. They leave behind a piece of cloth (bandage, sock, handkerchief, etc.), worn by the sick person.
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The Tonte Chapel is a magnificent chapel, largely due to its location: at the highest point in Kooigem, with a number of nearly upright poplars as neighbors. It can therefore be seen from afar. The combination of white paint on the walls and blue woodwork gives the chapel an extra special character. The history of the chapel, which has been a protected monument since 2004, dates back to the first half of the 18th century. The first, smaller chapel was probably built in 1729 but destroyed in 1914, not by war, but by fire following a lightning strike. The current chapel dates from after the First World War. The small chapel was enlarged in 1929 by the residents of the nearby farm. The Tonte Chapel is a popular place of worship, especially in May. Source: Heritage Inventory
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After a long flat stretch along the Leie, a climb is more than welcome. And knowing that cyclocross riders ride over it every year makes it even more of a place worth mentioning.
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Pylon bridge in S-shape suspended from 2 diagonally placed pylons; bicycle and pedestrian bridge installed in 2009 at the Budapark (stopover place for Kortrijk residents) that connects the IJzerkaai and the Diksmuidekaai.
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Sint-Pietersbrug on the old arm of the Bossuit-Kortrijk canal is one of the most beautiful spots in Zwevegem. The bridge dates from 1892 and is a protected monument. It is a rare example of an iron lifting bridge with an open truss construction that was once operated manually.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical landmarks can I explore in Harelbeke?
Harelbeke offers several significant historical sites. You can visit the Sint-Pieters Bridge, a unique authentic drawbridge dating from 1892, recently renovated to preserve its original structure. The city is also home to the Sint-Salvatorskerk, a Romanesque church, and the poignant Harelbeke New British Cemetery, which holds the graves of Commonwealth soldiers from WWI and WWII.
Are there any natural areas or parks for outdoor activities near Harelbeke?
Yes, Harelbeke boasts excellent natural spaces for outdoor enthusiasts. The De Gavers Provincial recreation and Nature Domain is an expansive 188-hectare estate perfect for walking, cycling, and water sports like sailing or kayaking. It features playgrounds, a nature reserve, and the restored Kouter mill. Additionally, the Orveyt Forest provides a peaceful nature spot with walking paths through a diverse green area.
What cultural attractions are available in Harelbeke?
For cultural experiences, Harelbeke offers the Peter Benoit Huis, a museum dedicated to the renowned musician and composer. The Kunstenhuis, housed in an 18th-century residential home, serves as an interactive center for contemporary Belgian art, hosting two exhibitions annually with free entrance. The city also hosts cultural events like the monthly 'Harelbekedag'.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions around Harelbeke?
Families can enjoy several attractions. The De Gavers Provincial recreation and Nature Domain includes playgrounds and sunbathing lawns, and swimming is possible during summer months. The Orveyt Forest offers a family-friendly quest called 'Out and about with Blob'. Many of the bridges and religious sites, such as the Sint-Pieters Bridge and Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel, are also suitable for family visits.
Can I find good cycling routes near Harelbeke?
Harelbeke is a great base for cycling. The Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side offers a scenic climb through orchards and meadows. The city is also known for hosting the E3 Saxo Classic, a significant professional cycling event. You can find numerous routes for various cycling styles, including road cycling, touring, and gravel biking. Explore options like the 'Koutermolen Harelbeke – Broel Towers loop' or the 'Leie River – Broel Towers loop' on the Road Cycling Routes around Harelbeke and Cycling around Harelbeke guide pages.
What are the best places for walking or hiking around Harelbeke?
For walking and hiking, the Orveyt Forest provides peaceful walking paths through a diverse green area. The De Gavers Provincial recreation and Nature Domain also offers ample opportunities for walking. The banks of the Leie River, known as Leieborden, are an oasis for leisurely strolls with comfortable terraces and views.
Are there any religious sites of interest in Harelbeke?
Harelbeke features several notable religious sites. The Sint-Salvatorskerk is a Romanesque church with a striking tower. The Sint-Ritakerk is another significant religious building. Additionally, the Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel is a protected 18th-century monument that evolved into a pilgrimage site, known for its historical customs related to healing and finding a partner.
What can I see in nearby Kortrijk that is easily accessible from Harelbeke?
Just a short distance from Harelbeke, Kortrijk offers the iconic Broel Towers, protected monuments dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, which once controlled traffic on the River Leie. You can also visit the College Bridge, an S-shaped pylon bridge for pedestrians and cyclists connecting to the lively Buda Island, which is also wheelchair accessible.
Are there any viewpoints or scenic spots in the Harelbeke area?
Yes, for scenic views, the Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side offers great vistas over orchards and meadows. The Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel is also situated at the highest point in Kooigem, providing a prominent landmark visible from afar. The Leieborden (banks of the Leie River) offer pleasant spots to enjoy views, especially towards the Broel Towers in Kortrijk.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Harelbeke?
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The unique authentic drawbridge of Sint-Pieters Bridge and the historical customs of Our Lady of the Tonte Chapel are highly rated. The scenic climbs like Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side are praised for their views, and the peaceful walking paths in Orveyt Forest are a favorite for nature lovers.
Are there any wheelchair accessible attractions in the area?
Yes, the College Bridge in nearby Kortrijk is a pylon bridge designed for pedestrians and cyclists and is noted as wheelchair accessible, connecting to the Buda Island.
What kind of outdoor sports can I do in Harelbeke?
Harelbeke and its surroundings are ideal for various outdoor sports. The De Gavers Provincial recreation and Nature Domain offers opportunities for water sports such as sailing, surfing, and kayaking, in addition to walking and cycling. The region is also very popular for cycling, with numerous routes for road cycling, touring, and gravel biking, including challenging climbs like Tiegemberg. You can find detailed routes on the Road Cycling Routes around Harelbeke, Cycling around Harelbeke, and Gravel biking around Harelbeke guide pages.
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