Walk with Jay

11/06/2024

🕍 Leuven, a city I had always wanted to visit as a Belgian, but had never really taken the time to explore. I knew where it was and that it had a lively student population. I had even passed through it a few times. But to truly dive into Leuven and discover its charm? That was something I had never done. It was high time to change that!

My adventure began in late April, when the weather was typical Belgian, different seasons in one day! One moment the sun was shining, and the next we were caught in a sudden downpour. But that didn't stop us; we were determined to immerse ourselves in all that Leuven had to offer.

I decided to follow the city's walking routes, which I found on their website (link is below). Leuven offers three different routes, each highlighting unique aspects of the city. We ambitiously combined them into one grand route to make sure we didn't miss anything.

Our tour took us to both the small and large beguinages, serene historic neighborhoods perfect for a leisurely stroll. We wandered through a beautiful botanical garden filled with a variety of plants and herbs, ideal for nature lovers. The city parks offered lovely green spots to relax and soak up the atmosphere.

Leuven's historic town hall, with its stunning Gothic architecture, was a highlight. On the Grote Markt, we admired St. Peter's Church, an impressive structure with its own unique charm. We also explored an old abbey, which added a touch of antiquity to our walk. Every corner of Leuven seemed to hold a new discovery, from quaint streets to bustling squares.

For foodies like me, Leuven is a paradise. The city's student population ensures a wide variety of eateries for every taste. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Belgian cuisine or international flavors, Leuven's culinary scene won't disappoint. At noon, I enjoyed a mitrailette (a baguette with fries, a mexicano, and samurai sauce), in the afternoon we played pool and had drinks at Downtown Jack , and we ended the evening at Umamido where I had incredibly delicious ramen. Highly recommended! 😋

I'm already planning my next visit, as there is so much more to see and experience. Leuven, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and welcoming atmosphere, has truly captivated me. It's a city that surprised me at every turn, and I can't wait to return! 🚶

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Walking route in Visit Leuven
https://visitleuven.be/de-highlights-van-leuven

04/06/2024

It was a Sunday morning and we were on our way to a flea market when we were suddenly surrounded by dense fog on the highway. Those who know me well know that I like to walk in the fog.

Instead of driving on to the flea market in Poperinge, we decided to turn off and take a walk through the Polygon wood.

I've written about this place before, but it definitely deserves more attention. Although it is a small forest that you walk through quickly, there are plenty of sights that make it an interesting trip.

In the morning fog, the forest had a magical, fairy-tale vibe and the tranquility was truly peaceful. Seeing the bunkers is always a special moment, but with the mist around them it felt even more remarkable.

Don't forget to visit the Brothers In Arms Memorial Park, which has a fascinating story worth your time. You'll find the details among the pictures.

So if you're in the area, don't miss this place! For us, the flea market could wait that day; we just visited it a little later.

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Polygon wood in Gemeente Zonnebeke
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders and the Westhoek.👍

28/05/2024

🌿 🥇 One of the most beautiful hiking trails in the Ijzer Valley is the Dode Ijzer wandelroute in Roesbrugge-Haringe. It is a favorite escape of mine when I want to retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This serene spot offers little more than peace and nature, and that's all I need.

Walking along the Ijzer River is incredibly relaxing, with beautiful views and the melodious singing of birds enhancing the experience. It's a place where time seems to stand still, allowing you to truly unwind.

If you are looking for a similar escape and want to explore a beautiful region, I definitely recommend this trail! 🚶

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Walking route in Roesbrugge Haringe:
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/dode-ijzerwandelroute
🥇I gave this trail a gold ranking on: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes 🥈
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

21/05/2024

🌿 This post is about a walk I did nearly two months ago. Yes, I know I'm quite behind, but on the bright side, I still have plenty of content to share with you!

In early April, we went on a one-day road trip through the French Westhoek with the goal of discovering as many new hiking spots as possible. During that trip, we found several locations that are worth crossing the border for.

Today, I want to talk about "La Réserve naturelle nationale des étangs du Romelaëre." Located in the municipalities of Saint-Omer, Clairmarais, and Nieurlet, this beautiful natural area is perfect for a walk.

The ponds themselves are not natural but were created through peat extraction. During the Middle Ages, over 800,000 tons of peat were extracted from this area. With 230 different species of birds passing through, along with 70 types of butterflies and 70 types of beetles, there's plenty to admire. The reserve spans 104 hectares and features three different hiking trails (2.7 / 4 / 7.6 km).

We'll definitely return, hopefully on a day that isn't rainy and windy like last time :D If you're looking for a family-friendly place to enjoy nature, this is definitely worth a visit! 🚶🥇

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Walking area in Ville de Saint-Omer

https://eden62.fr/espaces-naturels-a-decouvrir/les-espaces-naturels-sensibles-2/reserve-naturelle-nationale-des-etangs-du-romelaere/
https://en.tourisme-saintomer.com/get-amazed/preserved-spaces/admire-the-fauna-and-flora/admire-the-nature-at-romelaere/

Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders and the Westhoek.👍

14/05/2024

🌿 The Zavelpad in Pollinkhove offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene polder landscape, complete with breathtaking vistas.

As you traverse this trail, you'll encounter poignant reminders of history, such as a WW2 memorial honoring the crew of an American B17 or the historic Markey mill in Lo. The mill was built in 1797, which has served as a grain mill and, in an earlier era, as an oil mill.

But above all, the Zavelpad offers an haven of tranquility, an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. 🚶☘

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Walking route created by Stad Lo-Reninge
https://www.routeyou.com/nl-be/route/view/4534746/wandelroute/b8647-pollinkhove-zavelpad

Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

10/05/2024

🌿 I was recently featured on the Discovering Belgium blog, and it filled me with a moment of pride. Although my page is only 7 months old, it is already being recognized as an interesting resource for discovering this beautiful region! This endorsement fuels my motivation even further.

If you're curious about what else Belgium has to offer, make sure to explore Discovering Belgium's blog. Even as a Belgian, I am constantly learning new things from it! 🚶

West Flanders offers some beautiful landscapes for hikers. Here are some resources to help you decide where to walk in West Flanders.

07/05/2024

🌿 The Mortagne hiking trail leads you through the panoramic landscape of the Scheldt Valley between Spiere and Helkijn. The route takes you along a deserted railway track and rural roads, passing by beautiful castle farms. As you stroll along the green banks of the Scheldt and the Spiere Canal, you'll make your way back to the village center of Spiere. Along the way, you'll encounter quiet spots where you can take a moment to rest.

If you're looking for a nice hiking trail to stretch your legs, this one is worth doing. 🚶

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Walking route in Spiere-Helkijn Espierres-Helchin
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/mortagnewandelroute

Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

03/05/2024

🌿 This week my Google Map received a major upgrade: more than 80 hiking trails were added to it!

The total number of trails now exceeds 300 (of which more than 100 have already been ranked by me), 95% are located in the Westhoek and West Flanders region.

Use this map to discover this beautiful and interesting region! Lace up your hiking boots and embark on an adventure! 🚶

Google map:

Walk with Jay - Hiking routes

30/04/2024

🌳 As I want to hike every trail in west flanders, there are a few that don't rank as high on my priority list. These are the hikes I reserve for weekends with limited time or less favorable weather conditions.

The Artevelde hiking trail in Westrozebeke was one of them. My expectations for this hike were tempered. Yet, I discovered something intriguing along the way: the polder forest, a charming natural enclave complete with a bird watching cabin—a perfect spot to pause and soak in the lush surroundings.

Further on, the trail led me to the Vijverbos, although its beauty was marred by an unpleasant odor from nearby industry. 🤢

While the route offers a few minor points of interest, it doesn't stand out as particularly remarkable. It's a pleasant stroll for residents seeking to unwind and get some exercise. ☘🚶

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Walking route:
https://www.routeyou.com/nl-be/route/view/5318916/wandelroute/westrozebeke-artevelde-wandelroute
https://www.staden.be/product/243/wandelen

Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

23/04/2024

🌿🥈 I recently explored the Brouckmolen Walking Route, a picturesque trail winding through the serene wetlands of the IJzerbroeken, nestled between the scenic polders and the zandleemstreek region between Beveren aan den Ijzer and Stavele.

This path is perfect for hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Ijzer. Along the way, you'll traverse an untouched stretch of towpath, enveloped in nature's tranquility. The scenic authentic bridges you'll cross only enhance the allure of this trail.

As you stroll, you'll sense a serene stillness, as though time itself has paused. Opportunities for peaceful pauses abound, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural splendor surrounding you.

This route is a sanctuary for those seeking peace amidst nature's embrace.

However, time is ticking as plans are underway to modernize a segment of this tranquil path with a 2-meter-wide concrete bike lane this year. Soon, the cherished tranquility enjoyed by hikers and nature lovers may be disrupted for tourist cyclists.

(more information can be found on the website of De Bron
https://www.debron.be/index.php/campagnes)

UPDATE: I was just told that the case that " De Bron," Trage Wegen, the ANB and Grote Routepaden successfully filed an appeal against the environmental application.

The path between Roesbrugge and Stavele will be reserved exclusively for hikers and cordoned off with gates to ensure that cyclists cannot enter the path. The new plan provides for a narrow gravel strip where cyclists cannot possibly pass each other.

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Walking route created by Visit West-Vlaanderen Toerisme Westhoek:
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/brouckmolenwandelroute
🥈I gave this trail a silver ranking on: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes 🥈
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

22/04/2024

Thanks for the mention! 🔥

If you're looking for more interesting information about Belgium, be sure to check out Discovering Belgium.

16/04/2024

🌳 While organizing my photos, I noticed that I had forgotten to post about a hiking trail... It wasn't the best hike I had done at that time, and the weather was also gray with rain, so my pictures weren't as I had hoped.

But since I have a mission to explore every hiking trail in West Flanders and create content about it, I decided to go ahead and make this post.

With the Rooie Zitapad, you discover the eastern side of Langemark. Here and there, you'll come across World War memorials, but I recommend downloading the PDF in the description bellow for additional information.

Because if you do as I did, just following the route and hoping for signs with a lot of information, you'll learn little. 😅

One of the most famous places you'll encounter is a well-known sculpture from the region, a statue of a solitary soldier with a bowed head, resting on his inverted weapon. The "Canadian Memorial," or "De Canadien" as it is called locally, is a unique monument in every aspect in the Ypres Salient.

Another prominent place you'll come across is the Steenackersmolen. But more information about this mill will come when I return for the hiking trail named after it; the Steenakkermolenpad.

In conclusion, although this hike may primarily serve as a way to stretch your legs and gain a closer look at De Canadien, every trail holds its own charm and significance worth exploring. 🚶‍♂️🌿

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Walking route created by Gemeente Langemark Poelkapelle
https://www.langemark-poelkapelle.be/file/download/64fc9910-cfca-4367-bdfc-01d1de3e91d9/t15QeSlnHmWADXQuvCTKEp3WniC28E13w5iwqcPcpKE3d

Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

09/04/2024

🌿 In a previous post, I told you that this year I wanted to get to know the region of Diksmuide better. This time it was the turn of the Vladslo Ambacht Walking Route.

I'll be honest, I didn't have high expectations for this route. It seemed like a typical walk through fields. However, I was pleasantly surprised by what unfolded before me. The path revealed itself to be far more captivating than I had imagined, offering moments of serene tranquility amidst its beauty.

As I journeyed along this path, I encountered two distinct landscapes that define Vladslo. To the south lay the picturesque low-lying marshlands, a haven for nature enthusiasts with its diverse flora and fauna. Meanwhile, the north of the village is characterized by a more rolling landscape.

Our adventure commenced at the historic Vladslo square, adjacent to the Sint-Martinus Church, which has stood since 994 and endured the ravages of fire twice over the centuries.

Venturing beyond the village center, we traversed fields towards the marshes, nestled within the Handzame Valley, known as the gateway to the polders. These wetlands, bustling with life, provided a captivating sight despite their occasional muddy or flooded conditions.

We leave the marshes along the towpath to head towards the north of the village. On this stretch, we mainly walk among old farmhouses and fields before returning to the village square.

If you're seeking a leisurely stroll with occasional spots to pause and soak in the scenery, I wholeheartedly recommend exploring the Vladslo Ambacht Walking Route. It's a journey that promises both serenity and beauty. 🚶🌱

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Walking route created by Stad Diksmuide Vladslo Leeft
https://www.bezoekdiksmuide.be/file/download/1068/B6BC3FFC37B3FD2D0347FCB388EF52AA
🥉This hike received a bronze rating
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

02/04/2024

🚶🌿 Recently, I went for a hike in the Ijzer Valley. I had regularly seen pictures of Fintele passing by, and since I had not yet done the beverdijk hiking trail, this seemed like the ideal opportunity to explore this region.

The IJzerbroeken form the border between the polders and the zandleem region further into the country. This watery landscape is a great starting point for discovering the Westhoek. You start from the charming village of Pollinkhove, a borough of Lo-Reninge.

Once you leave the village center you continue walking between fields to eventually end up at the towpath. The towpath along the Lovaart brings you to the sluice complex of Fintele.

Here you continue to follow the towpath of the IJzer. Along the ancient Veurne-Ambacht d**e and the vast grasslands of the Kievitshoek you step to the Great Beverdijk canal. Through De Hullebrugweg,an arched bridge over the Lovaart, you arrive back at the starting point.

The Beverdijkwandelroute is the ideal hike for people looking for peace and nature. I really enjoyed it and I will definitely come back! ☘

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Walking route created by Visit West-Vlaanderen Vrije Tijd Lo-Reninge Toerisme Westhoek
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/beverdijkwandelroute
🥈This hike received a silver rating
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

26/03/2024

🌿🚶 In this week's post, I take you to a journey back across "de schreve", to French Flanders.

On the morning of this trek, the weather seemed a bit disappointing, with heavy clouds, wind gusts and the threat of rain. Nevertheless, I was determined to rediscover this region. The trail starts at the church square of Berthen, where, as a Flemish, one feels an immediate sense of familiarity - a sign outside the local pub proudly declares: "Here one speaks Flemish."

As we departed from the village center, we found ourselves amidst vast fields. In the distance, a graceful herd of deer darted across the landscape. Further along, we encountered a familiar sight reminiscent of Poperinge: the distinctive silhouette of jet-black hop-poles, a rare sight in northern France.

Along the trail, poignant reminders of wartime history punctuate the landscape. However, one particular highlight is the distant silhouette of the Abbey of Mont Des Cats. Opting to take a brief detour, I found solace in the tranquil atmosphere of the fever chapel atop Mont des Cats - a serene spot to pause, reflect, and enjoy a nourishing snack.

Reinvigorated, we pressed onward towards our starting point. Despite the inclement weather, the hike proved to be a rewarding experience. Yet, I couldn't help but imagine the trail's beauty in full bloom. Rest assured, I'll return when nature herself is adorned in her finest attire! 🌳

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Commune de Berthen
https://www.sentiers-en-france.eu/sentiers-nord-59/dunkerque/sentier-sentier-de-berthen-berthen

🥉This hike received a bronze rating
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

19/03/2024

🚶🌳 Over the past 2 years, I have hiked more than 100 different hiking trails in West Flanders. Yet, the region of Diksmuide remains largely unexplored in my hiking repertoire. That's why this year, I've set my sights on delving deeper into this captivating area.

This time, I ventured along the Kathe Kollwitz trail in Vladslo. Starting from the Stock Vermeersch parking lot, the journey kicks off alongside a bustling road, leading towards the domain of Castle Ter Heide. Although much of the castle remained shrouded by a private forest, the allure of its hidden splendor beckoned.

Crossing the provincial road, we meandered along a rural path towards the Welvennest Forest. This wooded enclave served as a German training ground during WWI. Here, new recruits were immersed in the harsh realities of war.

Turning right at the Wikkelaar, we followed a busy road to reach the German Military Cemetery. Amongst the somber resting place of 25,645 German soldiers lies Kathe Kollwitz's poignant artwork, "The Mourning Parents." Sculpted by August Rhades and Fritz Diederich, these statues encapsulate the universal anguish of parents who have lost children to war.

Leaving the cemetery behind, I opted for a detour through Praetbos, where remnants of World War memorials lay nestled amidst the foliage. Though I didn't fully explore the entire forest this time, I plan to return for the Praetbos Ommetje—a journey of its own.

Emerging from the woods, we tread upon remnants of an ancient Roman road, a branch of the Via Belgica, before ultimately circling back to our starting point.

Although the Kathe Kollwitz route sometimes goes along busy roads, the Praet forest and the German military cemetery are worth seeing. I am eager to discover more hidden gems in this interesting region! ☘

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Walking route created by Stad Diksmuide
https://www.bezoekdiksmuide.be/kathe-kollwitzroute
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

12/03/2024

🚶🌊 Oostduinkerke holds a special place in my heart, a destination etched with memories both from my childhood and teenage years. From leisurely walks with my parents to exhilarating adventures among the dunes and bunkers with friends, it's a place steeped in nostalgia.

Embarking on the Ter Yde walking route felt like a chance to reconnect with this cherished spot. Opting for a different starting point, we parked our car along the tramway, eager to begin our journey from the zeeberm dunes—where my teenage self once roamed among the bunkers. Though the bunkers remain, accessibility has changed since my youth.

Beyond the bunkers, the path leads us to the expansive 300-hectare Ter Yde dune massif—a serene haven to immerse oneself in nature's beauty. Passing through the dunes, we enter the enchanting Hannecortbos forest, a testament to time and human endeavor.

Emerging from the forest, we encounter a residential area adorned with charming old villas. However, my adventurous spirit leads me off the beaten path, guiding me through the 'Plaats duinen'. Eventually, we rejoin the trail, strolling through Oostduinkerke Bad and returning to the beach.

As our hike draws to a close, we're greeted by a delightful surprise—a playful seal basking on the shore. Feeling at peace in its natural habitat, it's a moment to treasure before bidding farewell to this beloved destination.

The Ter Yde hiking trail is truly a gem, offering tranquility and breathtaking natural vistas—a perfect day by the sea awaits those who embark upon it. ☘

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Walking route created by Visit West-Vlaanderen Koksijde - Oostduinkerke
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/ter-ydewandelroute

🥈This route received the silver rank!🥈
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

05/03/2024

🚶☘ A few weeks ago I decided to do the Tweefrontenroute - a trail I came across when I walked the stuvetjeroute last summer. Until then I had not had a chance to walk the trail. With a length of 17.4 kilometers and varied sights, it promised to be an interesting adventure.

The Tweefrontenroute starts right at the Yser Towers in Diksmuide. The Yser Towers is primarily a memorial to the Flemish soldiers who died in World War I, but it also symbolizes Flanders' desire for political autonomy. From here the path leads us to Kaaskerke, where the "Stiltepad" awaits us.

The Stiltepad follows the path of an old connecting trench, called "the trench of hope," between the Dodengang and the village of Kaaskerke, which in 1914 was converted into a large trench complex, a fortified castle on the Frontzate. The ruin in the middle of the Stiltepad is a remnant of the Sabbe farmstead, which was rebuilt after World War I.

Our journey continues to the Ijzerdijk, where the infamous Dodengang awaits. This preserved Belgian trench system from World War I offers a sobering glimpse into history. While some opt to explore the trenches up close, we choose to observe from above, marveling at the intricate network.

As we meander between streams and fields towards Oud Stuivekens, we encounter unexpected companions – two friendly felines eager to join our adventure. Even as we pause for a picnic, they remain by our side, offering silent companionship.

Continuing on, we arrive at Stuivekenskerke, where unfortunately the closed church denies us entry. However, the nearby Viconia Kleiputten offers a sanctuary for migratory birds, a serene spectacle worth witnessing.

We return to the Ijzer and cross the water a little further up, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and picturesque vistas along the way. Finally back in Diksmuide, you can rest a bit on 1 of the café terraces or, like us, retreat to the quiet oasis of the Provinciedomein IJzerboomgaard, next to the parking lot, to reflect on the unforgettable day.

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Walking route created by Stad Diksmuide
https://www.bezoekdiksmuide.be/tweefrontenroute
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

27/02/2024

🚶🌳 Take a walk through the heart of Gijzelbrechtegem, also known as Grijsloke, once the smallest municipality in Flanders. Traverse the Kleine Kluis Trail, tracing the ancient border between West and East Flanders.

This scenic path winds along tranquil lanes and church pathways, leading you into a verdant forest where wild hyacinths burst into bloom during the springtime. Along the way, be captivated by breathtaking vistas of the Scheldt Valley, painting a picturesque panorama of nature's splendor.

Dive into the past and explore the remains of the Bouvelo Forest, a lush forest that once covered the region well into the Middle Ages. Today, the Bouvelo Forest bears witness to its former glory, a 15-acre green oasis in the midst of modernity.

Ascend to the pinnacle of Anzegem's landscape and behold the Bouvelo Chapel, a venerable structure erected in 1925 atop the highest peak, 80 meters above sea level. From this lofty vantage point, soak in sweeping panoramas of the surrounding countryside, where the Scheldt Valley and Leie Valley converge. At the chapel's doorstep, an orienteering table awaits, guiding you to the neighboring villages nestled within this region.

Come along and journey through nature, where your steps lead you to gorgeous vistas. 🍃🌄

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Walking route created by Visit West-Vlaanderen Gemeente Anzegem
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/kleine-kluiswandelroute
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

20/02/2024

☘🚶Embark on a journey through the peaceful landscapes of Beverhoutsveld. Tucked between Gemeente Beernem and Gemeente Oostkamp , this vast plain has been a haven for agriculture for centuries, with little interruption from modern life.

As soon as you lace up your hiking boots and set off, you are greeted by the gentle rustling of the wind through the fields and the chirping of birds in the distance.

Traverse the winding paths that lead you through fields where a harmony between nature and agriculture is felt.

Stop for a moment at the memorial stone, a solemn reminder of the Battle of the Beverhoutsveld, where the echoes of the conflict have long since faded and been replaced by the serene beauty of the landscape.

The route continues along the banks of the Ghent-Ostend Canal, where you might encounter a friendly donkey grazing in a nearby field. Feel the stresses of city life melt away as you immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this idyllic countryside.

Each step brings you closer to the heart of Beverhoutsveld, where the beauty of nature and the echoes of history merge into a serene adventure. So put on your boots, bring a snack and come discover the Beverhoutsveld on foot. 🌳

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Walking route created by Visit West-Vlaanderen
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/beverhoutsveldwandelroute
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

13/02/2024

🚶🕍I must admit that a city walking tour of Wervik was not high on my to-do list.... I didn't have many expectations, but how wrong I was. 🙈

The journey begins at the To***co Museum, although I have to save that visit for another time because it was closed when I did this walk (Closed between Dec. 1 and Jan. 31). Once past the museum, you cross the bridge over the River Lys and find yourself in the middle of the green recreational island 'De Balokken'.

Wervik sits right on the border, offering a unique opportunity to wander into its sister city, Wervicq Sud, in France. Returning via the architecturally stunning border bridge, you're treated to a breathtaking view of the "Golden River" (the Leie).

A visit to St. Merdardus Church was the ideal ending to the hike.

It was a pleasant short hike with more rest and sightseeing than expected! ☘

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Walking route created by Westtoer Visit West-Vlaanderen Stad Wervik
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/stadswandelroute-wervik-wervicq-sud
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍

06/02/2024

🌊🚶‍♂️ Growing up by the sea, hiking through a dune landscape transports me back to the carefree joy of childhood play.

Starting in the heart of the village of De Haan, the trail passes along straight avenues flanked by beautiful villas. But in this post I am going to talk a little less about this, as I will be back soon for the heritage walk. By the way, did you know that Albert Einstein once lived here?

Beyond the villas lie the dune forests. After a transition between forest and dunes, the path finally reveals its pièce de résistance: the vast dunes themselves.

I suggest doing this segment first along the dunes rather than along the shoreline. Not only does this offer a better workout, but it also enhances the experience with breathtaking views. After a few kilometers, the route meanders along the flat beach and follows the rhythmic heartbeat of the sea.

Continuing onward, we circle back to Wenduine, reaching a lookout point offering a sweeping panorama of dunes and polder landscapes. The return journey, through the Duinbossen, completes the loop back to the starting point.

This hiking trail earns its silver status for its versatility—suitable for exploration in any season and weather condition, promising a uniquely rewarding experience each time. 🌳🚶‍♂

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Walking route created by Westtoer Visit West-Vlaanderen Visit De Haan - Wenduine
https://www.visitwestvlaanderen.be/nl/duinbossenwandelroute
Find more hikes at: bit.ly/WalkwithJay-Hikingroutes
Follow the page if you want to discover more hiking spots in West Flanders.👍