Walking through Kluis Forest

The largest forest in the Flemish Ardennes is something you'll want to discover. But where to start? There’s so much to see! This walking route is a good start.

Creative souls should take a moment to enjoy

This magnificent walk takes you down pleasant paths through the stately beech forest, with a stopover in the hamlet of Pensemont and the artists’ village of Kwaremont. Ideal for those seeking peace and quiet! And to be honest, also for creative souls – they are in the right place in this artistic refuge!

Ecological playground for nature

Kluis Forest is located at the height of 141m on the Kluisberg. It’s has an extremely varied scenery because the forest suffered many blows in the past. The Agency for Nature and Forests provides a management plan, which has resulted in a well-considered approach that benefits both biodiversity and the original inhabitants of the forest.

Large beech and oak trees are felled to create open spaces. This gives other plant species the chance to grow, enabling the landscape to become more valuable.

Reserved for nature

Part of Kluis Forest is a nature reserve where there is no human intervention. Downed trees are left to rot. This attracts insects, which are eaten by the many birds. Many pools are created there in which toads and the rare fire salamander make their home.

Expanding boundaries

During the 6.4 km walk through Kluis Forest, you'll cross borders. The forest is right on the language border. Don’t be a stranger to our fellow countrymen who speak French; just cross this imaginary line during your walk. Spying on the neighbours won’t kill you! In fact, it makes you a more complete person.

You can enjoy views of the Walloon landscape in open spaces. It’s a change from the Flemish Ardennes. A welcome addition to a particularly rich variety of landscapes on your walk.

Enchanting scene

Stick around because there’s so much to experience that you won't want to miss. In spring, large parts of the forest turn completely purple. The bluebells are in full bloom then, casting a vast purple carpet over the forest floor, creating an enchanting spectacle. It's a beautiful scene you must see with your own eyes at least once in your life.

Find a sweetheart in Kluis Forest

Who knows, maybe the walk will yield a nice bonus. Kluis Forest is home to a ‘fountain of love’. Legend has it that anyone who stands in the ‘fountain of love’ with bare feet is guaranteed to find a new sweetheart within the year. And as they say, it doesn’t hurt to try. In any case, your feet will feel refreshed.

On the lap of Peetje and Meetje

In addition to potential love, you’ll also come across Peetje and Meetje on your walk. These two large boulders are the base of an ancient sacrificial table. If no sacrifice was made, justice was administered in Kluis Forest.

This is proven by the Vierschaar court. The name refers to four benches or ‘scharen’ on which the alderman, the prosecutor, the accused and the defender sat and where justice was administered the old-fashioned way.

On the summit

There is a tower on the summit of the Kluisberg. This remarkable building served as a lookout during the Napoleonic era. Also on the summit: time and space for relaxation. There is plenty of choice between all the terraces in and around the forest. If you have children in your party, Aux Acacias is the place to be. This tearoom has a view of the ‘play forest’ where the little ones can romp around to their heart’s content.  

It’s also pleasant in the BosbĀĀr. This was originally a pop-up project, but it has stuck around. In winter, it’s nice and warm around the fire baskets. You can order a regional beer or eat a savoury snack. Those who want to can even stay overnight!  Are you looking for a complete meal? Try ‘t Konijntje! Choose something from the menu or be surprised by the chef’s suggestions.

Walk the route

The largest forest in East Flanders is a must-see. This Kluis Forest walking route takes you past the highlights and has a few surprises up its sleeve. Put on your walking shoes and discover them!