The best walks and hikes in Flanders
4.4
(39843)
258,692
hikers
50,371
hikes
Hiking in Flanders offers diverse landscapes, from coastal dunes and expansive heathlands to ancient forests and rolling hills. The region is characterized by its varied terrain, including the flat polders, the gentle undulations of the Flemish Ardennes, and the pine forests and shimmering lakes of Hoge Kempen National Park. This variety provides numerous opportunities for hikers of all experience levels to explore its natural features.
Best hiking trails in Flanders
- The most popular hiking route is Duinbossen Trail, a…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
4.6
(551)
2,583
hikers
11.2km
02:50
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(513)
2,357
hikers
7.48km
01:58
60m
60m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(496)
2,027
hikers
11.3km
02:53
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(549)
2,289
hikers
12.9km
03:16
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(445)
2,141
hikers
9.81km
02:29
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.6
(404)
1,858
hikers
13.9km
03:45
180m
180m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(332)
2,241
hikers
8.74km
02:13
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(352)
1,679
hikers
10.4km
02:39
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(404)
2,110
hikers
9.38km
02:31
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(340)
1,543
hikers
8.18km
02:04
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The church was presumably founded at the end of the tenth century. As early as 1027, a chapter of canons was associated with the church. In 1047, the archdeacon of Liège consecrated the church to St. Peter, St. Paul, and St. Odulf, and the church was first mentioned in writing. In 1130-1131, the place of worship was replaced by a Romanesque church, using flint, river pebbles, and sandstone as building materials. A partially preserved and dated consecration stone depicting Christ, Peter, and Paul bears witness to this period. From 1290 onwards, the church was recorded as being in poor condition. About a century later, in 1396, the Romanesque tower disappeared to make way for the current Gothic tower (built: 1406). Significant extensions took place in the 18th century: the southern arm of the transept was built in 1773, the northern one in 1774, and in 1783 the large sacristy was built. The church's current Neo-Romanesque appearance is largely determined by the renovation in 1903 and 1904. Since 1935, the church, with the exception of the Neo-Romanesque aisles, has been a protected monument. In 2002, the protection was extended to the entire church. The church was renovated between 2014 and 2020 and restored to its full glory, with a focus on the Romanesque, Gothic, and Neo-Romanesque elements. Useful links: - https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sint-Odulfuskerk_(Borgloon) - https://inventaris.onroerenderfgoed.be/erfgoedobjecten/31816 - https://www.borgloon.be/toerisme/groepsbezoeken/ontdek-borgloon/sint-odulphuskerk - https://sint-odulphuskerk.be/ - https://openchurches.eu/nl-be/gebouwen/sint-odulphus-borgloon - https://sint-odulphuskerk.be/halo-open-kerk/
1
0
A nice and quiet place for a picnic
2
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Step back in time at Kasteel Tillegem, one of the best-preserved castles in the Bruges region. This impressive castle, surrounded by a wide moat and ancient trees, exudes pure medieval charm. During your tour through the Tillegembos forest, you will walk or cycle past this iconic heritage site, where history and nature blend seamlessly. The stately towers, the surrounding water, and the tranquil environment make it a particularly atmospheric place. Kasteel Tillegem is a real eye-catcher and a beloved stop for photographers, hikers, and heritage enthusiasts. It is certainly worth stopping here. A timeless highlight that you should not miss.
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No doubt it's beautiful here...
5
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The Zandpanne Nature Reserve is a valuable dune area between Wenduine and De Haan, known for its variety of dune forests, open dunes and moist dune valleys.
9
0
A beautiful old castle surrounded by a lake/moat. You can walk all the way around the castle and admire it from every angle.
2
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This 380-meter pontoon bridge guides you gracefully between the slag heaps and across the water. Along the way, you'll be treated to a stunning 360° experience with views of the glistening water and the green slag heaps. "Cycling & Walking among the Slag Heaps" is a unique experience when visiting Hoge Kempen National Park!
4
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The boardwalk in the Ven onder de Berg Nature Reserve offers hikers a unique way to explore the marshy and wet landscape of the Voer region. The path is elevated above the damp ground and reeds, allowing visitors to walk through the reserve without getting their feet wet or disturbing the natural environment. The nature reserve itself is rich in biodiversity: reed beds, damp grasslands, and small ponds provide a home for amphibians, waterfowl, and unique plants such as bog myrtle and marsh marigold. The boardwalk allows hikers to observe and photograph this unique flora and fauna up close without damaging the fragile ecosystem.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Flanders?
Flanders offers an extensive network of hiking trails, with over 49,000 routes available on komoot. This includes more than 30,000 easy trails, over 16,000 moderate routes, and nearly 2,000 difficult options, catering to all experience levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Flanders?
Flanders boasts a diverse landscape for hikers. You can explore coastal dunes and expansive heathlands, ancient forests like the Sonian Forest, and the rolling hills of the Flemish Ardennes. Other notable areas include the pine forests and shimmering lakes of Hoge Kempen National Park, and riverine landscapes such as the Meuse Valley River Park.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Flanders?
The trails in Flanders are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 45,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the varied terrain, from coastal paths to forest trails, and the well-maintained routes that offer both natural beauty and cultural insights.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Flanders?
Yes, Flanders has many family-friendly hiking options. The region's diverse landscapes include numerous easy trails suitable for all ages. For example, the Mechelse Heide Red Triangle Trail is an easy 4.7-mile (7.5 km) path through heathlands, offering panoramic views that children might enjoy.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Flanders?
Many hiking trails in Flanders are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check local regulations for specific nature reserves or national parks. Generally, dogs are welcome on a leash. The region's forests and heathlands provide excellent opportunities for walks with your canine companion.
Are there circular hiking routes in Flanders?
Yes, Flanders offers a wide array of circular hiking routes, perfect for day trips. Many trails are designed to bring you back to your starting point, making logistics easier. The Bulskampveld Hiking Trail is a moderate 6.1-mile (9.8 km) circular route that allows you to explore the area's natural beauty.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while hiking in Flanders?
Flanders offers a wealth of natural features and landmarks. You can explore the unique dune landscapes of the Westhoek hiking trail, or discover caves such as the Marl Caves of Vechmael. The region also features various peaks and viewpoints, including the Oude Kwaremont and the View of the Terrils from the Lake, offering stunning vistas.
Are there any trails that offer historical or cultural insights?
Absolutely. Many hiking routes in Flanders are dotted with heritage sites and cultural points of interest. The Three Castles Route, for instance, leads through historic landscapes and past notable landmarks. Another example is the Ooidonk hiking trail, which takes you past the picturesque Ooidonk Castle.
How can I reach hiking trails using public transport in Flanders?
Flanders has a well-developed public transport network, and many hiking trails are accessible by train or bus. The GR (Grote Routepaden) trails even include 'Treinstappers' (train walks) that connect different stations, making it convenient to start and end your hike without a car. It's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific trailheads.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Flanders?
Flanders offers pleasant hiking conditions throughout much of the year. Spring brings blooming heathlands and forests, while summer is ideal for coastal walks. Autumn showcases vibrant fall foliage, particularly in the Flemish Ardennes and Sonian Forest. Even winter can be beautiful for crisp walks, especially in areas like the Hoge Kempen National Park.
Are there challenging hikes in Flanders?
While much of Flanders is relatively flat, there are indeed challenging hikes, particularly in areas like the Hoge Kempen National Park. The 110-kilometer National Park Trail within Hoge Kempen includes steep climbs and varied terrain. The Terhillsroute (geel) - Mechelse Heide is a moderate 8.6-mile (13.9 km) route with significant elevation changes, offering a more strenuous experience.
Where can I find parking near hiking trails in Flanders?
Many popular hiking areas and nature reserves in Flanders provide designated parking facilities. For specific trails, it's recommended to check the komoot tour details or local tourism websites for information on nearby parking lots. Areas like Hoge Kempen National Park and the Sonian Forest have well-marked parking options.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting while hiking?
Yes, Flanders offers several excellent spots for wildlife spotting. The Zwin Nature Park, located near the coast, is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities. The Mechels Broek nature reserve is home to various bird species and grazing Galloway cattle that maintain biodiversity. Keep an eye out for deer, wild boar, and various bird species in the larger forest areas like Bosland and the Sonian Forest.
Most popular routes in Flanders
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