Belgium is a fascinating country. Its cities are simultaneously historic and modern, traditional yet cosmopolitan. Oudenaarde is not just great for a city break for groups or couples in the centre of Europe, it is also a haven for lovers of the great outdoors with walking and hiking trails suitable for all ages and abilities. Book comfortable well-appointed accommodation near the city in Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde, the perfect place to relax and recover after a long day of discovering.
The Flemish Ardennes
Part of the DNA of our city is the stunning mountain range, The Flemish Ardennes. They are an ideal spot for lovers of the great outdoors, from hikers and walkers to climbers and cyclists. There are routes and trails to suit all ages and abilities – some walks are suitable for families while others are better suited to seasoned adventurers. The region around the Scheldt valley is a hikers paradise and there are plenty of mapped routes from Oudenaarde. You’ll experience picturesque beauty and some historically significant spots along the way. Tourism Oudenaarde has free maps of the best routes.
The Slopes of the Tour de Flanders Walking Route
Did you know you can walk along some of the slopes of The Tour of Flanders? These extremely challenging routes are great for experienced hikers and are part of the top 5 most difficult routes in the Flemish Ardennes. At 15.5km, this is a hike you should not underestimate! Take on the slopes of De Kortekeer, Rotelenberg and Koppenberg before recuperating with a packed lunch in the gorgeous Koppenberg Forest. Pack well, wear the correct shoes and equipment, plan your journey well and let someone know where you are going before you leave. You’ll start and finish your walk at the Nukerkeplein in Maarkedal before returning to your haven in Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde.
Recreation Domain De Donk
This gorgeous recreational area is a lovely place for an after-dinner stroll or an active sunny afternoon and ideal for families. The park is over 40 hectares, just over half of which is a lake and an uninhabited island; it’s very picturesque. If you start your route in the city’s main square, you’ll reach De Donk in no time by bike or on foot with a shortcut under the N60. The area is a combination of green space. Grassland, wooded areas and is home to many special of water birds. Inside you’ll also find the 7 Summits adventure park, The Outsider Cable park and much more within this exciting space.
Volkegem Forest and t’Ename Forest
It doesn’t take much convincing to explore the stunning ‘t Ename forest and its extension Volkegem Forest. This 30 hectares of exquisite natural land is protected by Natura 2000 network. It was formed around a former quarry and with little help from local authorities planting with native tree and shrub species. Start your hike on the Ename square in Ename or at the starting point ‘Volkegem’ in Oudenaarde and enjoy the beautiful historic forest, the charming village centre of Ename and the stunning views of Oudenaarde and the Scheldt valley. The route is as long as you make it, with trails of 4.5 km, 6.8 km and 15.4 km.
Accommodation in Oudenaarde
After a long day of exploring a new place and hiking to new heights, you’ll need somewhere comfortable and relaxing to recuperate. Leopold Hotel Oudenaarde offers boutique four-star accommodation Overlooking the River De Schelde in the De Ham district. We’re perfectly placed to explore the city, take a business trip, or enjoy walking or hiking holiday. Our comfortable and spacious bedrooms are ideal for getting a great night’s sleep before a big hike or relaxing afterwards. Enjoy a meal and a well-earned drink in our in-house bar and restaurant.
Our best available rates and special offers are only available when you book on our official website or with one of our friendly reservations team. We’re also happy to recommend some of our favourite hiking or walking routes if you need advice. We look forward to welcoming you.
