The 20 Most Amazing Peaks around Maarkedal

The "mountain peaks" in Maarkedal are renowned for being steep hills, many of which are iconic climbs in professional cycling, particularly the Tour of Flanders. They offer a challenging terrain for cyclists and hikers, providing picturesque landscapes and rewarding views across the Flemish Ardennes.

Several peaks are famous for their difficulty. The Oude Kwaremont is known for its 2,200-meter length and significant cobblestone section, with gradients up to 11.6%. The Paterberg Climb is exceptionally short but incredibly steep, often exceeding 20% gradient. The Koppenberg cobbled climb is a formidable national monument with a 600-meter cobblestone section and a maximum gradient of 22%.

Yes, the Koppenberg cobbled climb is recognized as a national monument, and its surrounding forest, Koppenbergbos, still bears traces of trenches and bomb craters from World War I. The Kluisberg (Mont de l'Enclus), one of the higher hills, historically served as a refuge for Protestants in the 16th century and features the expansive Kluisbos forest.

From many of Maarkedal's peaks, you can expect scenic views of the rolling landscapes of the Flemish Ardennes. For instance, the Koppenberg cobbled climb offers views of the Flemish Ardennes from its summit, and the Kluisberg is known for its beautiful vistas within the Kluisbos forest.

While many climbs are challenging, the Kluisberg (Mont de l'Enclus) is considered family-friendly. Its summit features the Kluisbos forest, offering valuable nature, beautiful views, and recreational activities suitable for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families.

Beyond cycling the famous climbs, Maarkedal offers diverse outdoor activities. You can explore various hiking trails, including moderate routes like the Burreken Nature Reserve loop. For mountain biking, there are routes such as the "Herpelstraat Climb – Cat Sauvage Mill loop." Gravel biking is also popular, with options like the "Tour of Flanders Blue Loop." You can find more details on these activities in the hiking guide, MTB guide, and gravel biking guide for Maarkedal.

Yes, there are several hiking trails. For an easier option, consider the "Koppenberg Forest South – Koppenberg Forest North loop" which is about 6.7 km. More moderate trails include the "Burreken Nature Reserve loop" (9.8 km) and the "Muziekbos Rope Trail – Boardwalk on Stilts loop" (9.7 km). You can explore more hiking routes in the Hiking around Maarkedal guide.

Many trails in the region are dog-friendly. For example, visitors have noted that the area around the Koppenberg cobbled climb is great for walks with dogs, with one visitor mentioning their Ridgeback enjoyed it very much. It's always a good idea to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock.

The spring and autumn months are generally ideal for visiting Maarkedal. Spring offers blooming landscapes and the excitement of cycling classics, while autumn provides beautiful foliage. Summers are pleasant for outdoor activities, but be aware that cobblestone climbs like the Koppenberg can be notoriously difficult when wet, which can occur in any season.

Specific parking information for each peak can vary. Generally, you can find parking areas near popular trailheads and attractions. For example, when visiting the Kluisberg, there are recreational areas that typically offer parking. It's advisable to check local signage upon arrival or consult detailed route descriptions on komoot for specific parking suggestions near your chosen starting point.

Yes, the region is well-equipped with amenities for visitors. Near the Kluisberg summit, for instance, there is a café. Many villages and towns within Maarkedal and the wider Flemish Ardennes offer various cafes, pubs, and restaurants where you can refuel after your adventures.

The Taaienberg, with its challenging cobblestone section, is famously known as Tom Boonen's favorite climb and is sometimes referred to as "Boonenberg" by cycling enthusiasts.

The Kluisberg (Mont de l'Enclus) stands at 141 meters, making it one of the higher hills in the Flemish Ardennes and among the peaks in Maarkedal.