Cotthem Valley Nature Trail

The trail conveniently starts from the immense market square of Sint-Lievens-Houtem. You should be able to find parking facilities in or around the market square to begin your hike.

While generally considered accessible for nature walkers seeking peace and quiet, some sections can be challenging, particularly between nodes 79 and 65, and around node 75. It's rated as 'moderate' difficulty, so beginners with a reasonable level of fitness should be fine, but be prepared for varied terrain.

The trail offers diverse terrain, winding through country and forest roads, as well as well-preserved hollow paths. You'll traverse fields and woods, including the valley of the Cotthem brook and Cotthem Forest. Reviewers strongly recommend wearing high hiking shoes or boots, especially during autumn or in wet conditions, as parts of the trail can become muddy.

You'll encounter several notable features, including the ancient Roman road 'Oude Heerweg' and 'De Romein,' a 3-meter-tall bronze colossus. Other highlights include the Saint Livinus Chapel, the Mother Anna Chapel Wittinck, and the Mariagrot of Cotthem. Don't miss the View of the Flemish Ardennes countryside from the Balleiberg, the highest point of Sint-Lievens-Houtem.

The trail is beautiful year-round, but it's especially picturesque in spring when the Cotthem Forest is in bloom with wild wood hyacinth and wild garlic. Autumn also offers stunning scenery, though you should be prepared for potentially muddy conditions.

Yes, the trail is generally considered dog-friendly. However, always ensure your dog is under control, especially when passing through agricultural areas or near wildlife. Please remember to clean up after your pet.

No, there are no permits required or entrance fees to hike the Cotthem and Oude Heerweg trail or to access the Vallei van de Cotthembeek. It's freely accessible for public enjoyment.

Yes, the route also passes through sections of the Natuurwandeling Cotthem, Rodelandroute 2, Plan Bier - Zottegem Fietsroute, and Natuurwandeling Letterhoutem, among others.

The Cotthem and Oude Heerweg hiking trail is a loop-shaped route, meaning you will end your hike back at your starting point in Sint-Lievens-Houtem without retracing your steps.

Since the trail starts and ends in the market square of Sint-Lievens-Houtem, you'll find various amenities, including cafes and shops, in the village before or after your hike.

The trail winds through diverse natural landscapes, including the Cotthem brook valley and Cotthem Forest. In spring, you can enjoy wild wood hyacinth and wild garlic in bloom. Keep an eye out for local birdlife and small mammals typical of Flemish countryside and woodland environments.