The best walks and hikes around Herzele
4.5
(752)
3,760
hikers
247
hikes
Hiking around Herzele offers diverse landscapes characterized by rolling hills and verdant areas in the Belgian province of East Flanders. The region features an extensive network of trails that traverse quiet residential areas, slow roads, field paths, meadows, and small forests. Key natural features include the Duivenbos nature reserve and the Vallei van de Doormansbeek, alongside waterways like the Molenbeek. This varied terrain provides a range of experiences for hikers.
Best hiking trails around Herzele
- The most popular hiking route…
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.6
(44)
129
hikers
8.07km
02:07
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(30)
132
hikers
4.56km
01:14
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.3
(26)
113
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(23)
79
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(24)
106
hikers
7.86km
02:04
70m
70m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Along your well-maintained path you can enjoy the beautiful landscape and the mill in Rullegem.
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Very good to walk long path with fields on one side and a narrow forest on the other.
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A church building on this site was first mentioned in 1147. The advowson belonged to the Abbey of Saint-Ghislain until the end of the 17th century. The choir, the nave, and the west tower have been preserved from a Gothic church building. In the 18th century, the aisles were modified in such a way that no protruding transept was visible anymore and a pseudo-basilica was created. The oldest parts were made of Balegem stone. The younger parts are made of brick and sandstone. An octagonal upper structure is located on a square substructure of the west tower. (Wikipedia)
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"Molen te Rullegem" is a post mill on a mill mound on the northeast side of Molenstraat, to the right of house number 19, 1 km southeast of the church in Herzele. Zeger, lord of Herzele, sided with the city of Ghent during the years 1379-1384 in the struggle against Louis of Male, Count of Flanders. In 1380, Herzele was overrun by the count's armies. The castle, the hall, and two mills (a watermill and a windmill) were set on fire and destroyed. Zeger's possessions were seized by the count. The mill was rebuilt in 1393 by the sovereign bailiff of Flanders, Gijsbrecht van Leeuwergem, for the price of 308 pounds 16 shillings 10 deniers parisis, as can be read in the final account of September 30, 1395. This cost at the time corresponded to approximately 2000 daily wages of an unskilled laborer. The text is in Old French, but for the description of the materials used for the windmill, a number of Dutch words are used, such as "cnorhout", "wendas", "cammen", "stropband", "stenreep" and "prange". The windmill "te Rullegem" and the watermill "'s Heerenmeersen" therefore already existed before 1380. Both mills were almost always leased together. (Molenecho's)
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This old tram line ran from Merelbeke to Geraardsbergen, and the stop in Sint-Lievens-Esse became operational between 1911 and 1912. The stop was probably a simple stop, possibly combined with a nearby café. The former tram track is now used as a walking route.
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Reminder of WW2, here an English plane came down.
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beautiful church in a quiet spot
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The Duivenbos is a nature reserve in the Denderstreek in South-East Flanders (Belgium). The 11-hectare nature reserve is located on the territory of the municipality of Herzele (sub-municipality of Sint-Antelinks). The nature reserve is managed by Natuurpunt Denderstreek and is part of the Flemish Ecological Network.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Herzele?
Herzele offers an extensive network of over 220 hiking trails. These routes cater to various preferences, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging paths, ensuring options for all skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on Herzele's hiking trails?
The terrain in Herzele is diverse, characterized by rolling hills and verdant areas. Trails often lead through quiet residential areas, slow roads, field paths, meadows, and small forests, providing a varied sensory experience.
Are there options for different difficulty levels?
Yes, Herzele's hiking network includes options for all abilities. There are over 130 easy routes, nearly 80 moderate trails, and a few more difficult paths for experienced hikers.
What historical landmarks can I see along the hiking routes?
Many routes in Herzele pass by significant historical sites. You can explore the ruins of Herzele Castle, visit authentic windmills like Molen Te Rullegem, and discover beautiful churches and old Mary chapels. Some trails also follow repurposed former tram tracks, offering a unique historical path.
Are there any nature reserves to explore while hiking in Herzele?
Absolutely. The Duivenbos nature reserve, an 11-hectare area in Sint-Antelinks, is known for its marshy landscapes and offers serene views over the Dender valley. Another significant area is the Vallei van de Doormansbeek, which also features dedicated walking routes.
Are there any circular walks available in Herzele?
Many of the hiking routes in Herzele are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Marian Grotto – Nieuwpoort Mill loop from Oombergen and the Duivenbos Nature Reserve – View of the Fields loop from Sint-Antelinks are popular circular options.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Herzele?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 670 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse landscapes, the well-maintained trails, and the combination of natural beauty with historical points of interest like castles and windmills.
Are there any family-friendly hiking trails in Herzele?
Yes, Herzele offers many easy and accessible paths suitable for families. The diverse terrain, including meadows and small forests, provides an engaging experience for children. The Duivenbos Nature Reserve – View of the Fields loop from Sint-Antelinks is an easy 2.9-mile path that is often enjoyed by families.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Herzele?
Most hiking trails in Herzele are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the natural beauty with your canine companion. It's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and respect local regulations regarding nature reserves.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Herzele?
Spring is particularly beautiful, especially in areas like the Duivenbos nature reserve, where wood anemones bloom. However, Herzele's varied landscapes and extensive trail network make it an enjoyable hiking destination throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm.
Are there any specific attractions or points of interest near the hiking routes?
Beyond the trails themselves, you can find interesting points like the Berendries Climb, the Boardwalk Trail, and the Hollow Way in Neigembos. For natural beauty, the Aelmoeseneiebos Stream and Wooden Bridge is also nearby.
Is public transport available to reach hiking trails in Herzele?
Herzele is integrated into larger hiking networks, and while specific public transport details for every trailhead are not provided, the municipality is generally accessible. For detailed public transport information to specific starting points, it's advisable to check local bus schedules or plan your route using a regional transport planner.
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