The best walks and hikes around Oudenaarde

De Bramentuin (Het Burreken) – More than just thorns Anyone who thinks a blackberry bush is just prickly hasn't visited the Bramentuin yet! Hidden in the picturesque nature reserve Het Burreken, you'll find this special, educational garden by Natuurpunt. Here, over 40 local and indigenous blackberry varieties from the Flemish Ardennes grow neatly side by side. A unique place to discover with all your senses how diverse this plant family actually is. The garden is located near the Ganzenberg and makes a surprising, educational stop during your walk through the stream valleys. Especially in the summer and late summer months, it's a very nice highlight to pause at!

The Sigelshempad is an absolute must for those who love pristine nature and solid hills in the Flemish Ardennes. This atmospheric hiking trail takes you along winding unpaved paths, through deep forests and over rolling hills with magnificent views. The absolute highlight of the route is crossing the fairytale-like nature reserve Het Burreken, known for its babbling brooks and rich flora and fauna. Ideal for hikers who want to escape the crowds and enjoy a good dose of the Flemish hiking paradise. Tip: sturdy hiking boots are no unnecessary luxury in this hilly terrain!

The Chapel of the Holy Spirit or Lombaert Chapel ⛪🌿 At the crossroads of Vijverdamstraat, Spichtestraat, and Turkestraat stands the historic Chapel of the Holy Spirit, better known locally as the Lombaert Chapel. This charming wayside chapel has been a recognizable resting point in the rolling landscape around Nokere for centuries. The chapel was founded in 1725 by brothers A. and V. Lombaert. Their names and the year of foundation can still be found at the bottom of the altar. Thanks to its historical and landscape value, the building was designated as architectural heritage. The architecture also deserves a look. The spacious, white-painted chapel features a decorative facade with false joints, a stately basket-arch door with a striking keystone, and a small, round upper window. Three stone steps lead you to the elevated green platform on which the chapel stands. Behind the often-closed door lies a remarkable interior. Beneath the painted barrel vault stands a wooden altar with a painting depicting the Descent of the Holy Spirit during Pentecost. A small but characterful piece of heritage that has watched over the landscape of Nokere for three centuries — and today forms an atmospheric photo stop for hikers and cyclists.

Kordaalbos – small but special The Kordaalbos in Nokere, with its approximately 3 hectares, may be small in area, but all the greater in natural richness. This idyllic nature reserve, managed by Natuurpunt, lies on the edge of the Flemish Ardennes and forms a surprisingly green gem in the landscape. Through the forest winds the Kordaalbeek stream, which with its meanders defines the character of this moist nature area. The forest consists mainly of black alders and ashes and, thanks to its special soil, offers an ideal growing place for rare plants such as giant horsetail, yellow marsh marigold and slender primrose. Bird lovers will also get their money's worth here. The green woodpecker and great spotted woodpecker feel at home among the trees, while the little owl nests in the pollard willows at the edge of the forest. In winter, birds of prey even appear regularly. A small piece of nature with surprisingly much life — ideal for slowing down for a moment and discovering the Flemish Ardennes from their quietest side.

This is Het Landhuys, an atmospheric and highly-rated restaurant-bistro located at Nokeredorpstraat 26 in Nokere (Kruisem). The photo shows the cozy terrace at the front of the characteristic, white-washed historic building. Here are the key details and historical tidbits perfect for a highlight: Historical & Location Tidbits Former Town Hall: The striking building housing the restaurant formerly served as the old town hall and inn of Nokere. Today, it is officially designated as a protected monument. War Memorial: To the right on the facade (visible in your photo) hangs the memorial plaque in remembrance of the victims of World War I (1914-1918), which adds to the historical appeal of the location. Located on the Cobblestones: The restaurant is situated in the shadow of the well-known cycling climb Nokereberg and right next to the historic Kasteeldomein Casier. The terrace overlooks the authentic, listed village view with cobblestones.

Pause for a moment at this beautifully designed wooden viewing platform in the heart of the village of Schorisse. This boardwalk winds above the greenery and offers a delightful resting spot with views over the typical architecture and the flanks of the Flemish Ardennes. What truly makes this place special is the poetry woven into the landscape. Take your time to read the poems, enjoy the sweeping panorama, and soak up the serene atmosphere before heading into the surrounding hills.

Walking on this trail is enjoying meadows and a wide view.

The Beguinage of Oudenaarde (and the secret on the gate) Walk through a hidden oasis of peace! As soon as you step through the bright red Baroque gate, you suddenly find yourself in a 15th-century oasis of peace full of flowery inner courtyards and whitewashed houses. A wonderful breather during your route! Fun fact: before you go inside, look up carefully at the gatehouse. There you will see an image of Saint Roch, the French patron saint against the plague. Note his bare leg: he is quite literally pointing to a plague boil to show that he himself was also struck by the Black Death. In the past, he protected the Beguines from the disease; today he watches over the walkers visiting this unique historical site!