Walking past small, charming villages

Munkbosbeek valley and its surroundings look like something out of a fairy tale. This patchwork of fields, woods and grassland is cut in half for miles by a picturesque stream.

Cosy villages, such as Dikkele, are scattered along the stream. Dikkele is known as one of the most beautiful villages in Flanders. And if you end up here as part of a Slow Down walk, you’ll quickly realise why.

Sluggish dawdling in Zwalm

Past charming villages: walking routes don’t get any truer than this. You can explore the most beautiful landscape in Flanders for almost 11 km. And you’ll pass through the most charming and beautiful villages this region has to offer.

You start in Zwalm, a municipality that consists of 12 separate villages. The small town of Beerlegem is one of them. Beerlegem is home to Ten Bieze Castle, a magnificent structure that sits like a trophy at the end of a majestic beech lane. The centuries-old trees form a kind of column of honour between the village centre and the castle. It’s absolutely worth visiting!

De Kaaihoeve: learn more about nature

Do you want to immerse yourself in the local fauna and flora? Then stop by De Kaaihoeve, a centre for environmental and nature education. All the local schools and associations are frequent visitors here. An interesting package of educational activities and materials has been put together for each target group. Adults are sure to find something to their liking too.

You’ll discover activity areas for children, interesting bird cabinets and an extensive nature library in the building. You can try out the barefoot path in the garden, view exhibitions, and carry out assignments. Or you can simply enjoy the view, the greenery and the tranquillity.

Kaaimeersen: mysterious and wet nature reserve

The Kaaimeersen are next to De Kaaihoeve. This area is bursting with beautiful bird species and vast expanses of water. It’s the ideal place to take a break - or let all the stress slip away.

When you walk through the area in the morning (or when the sun comes out again after a rainy day), fog hangs over the water. Then you'll experience Kaaimeersen at its best: mysterious, teeming with life and exceptionally beautiful.

Walk, enjoy, drink, eat, sleep – then repeat

It’s always a great idea to escape the rat race by going to the Flemish Ardennes. There is plenty to do and experience in the region. Delicious food and beverages, for example. This beautiful region is also known for that.

In Beerlegem, don’t hesitate to drop by restaurant restaurant De Klokke. This is where hedonists gather to feast on delicious dinners and dishes from the menu. The desserts are also a must. Did you know that there’s even a ‘Walking route menu’ on offer? It’s the perfect remedy and a much-deserved boost after your hike.

About traditional pubs and deep sleep

For a drink afterwards, drive to Dikkele, where you’ll be welcomed with open arms in café De Casino. This popular traditional pub seems to be built on pure charm. The beer list is great too. You can see from the façade that this café has a long history. The original name was Dorpsherberg De Casino (Village Inn The Casino).

Is it time for bed? In Nederzwalm you’ll find B&B De Notelaar. It’s run by Els and Bart, who restored the country estate themselves. It is part of a more than 100-year-old farm surrounded by vast fields. From the large garden you look out over a nature reserve, which includes a 17th-century watermill. Aah, Zwalm can be so beautiful.