Walking along the Rooigemsebeek

Explore 13 km of the most charming villages in the Flemish Ardennes. If you are bringing children with you, you can shorten the route to 3 km or 6 km. You will start in Mullem, a charming village full of buildings and houses from days long past.

You’ll see the first signpost at the beautiful St Hilarius Church. Take the time to enjoy the view of the listed village centre. Or walk up the steep Aststraat and admire Gerlache Castle. Descendants of the South Pole explorers Adriën and Gaston de Gerlache live here. As you can see, the adventure already starts here. Ready to get started?

For lords and ladies of the castle

The route’s name says it all: you will follow the current of the Rooigemsebeek. You will walk from Mullem to Lede through a wonderfully green valley. On your journey, you might imagine yourself in the Middle Ages. The Ghellinck d’Elseghem Castle, for example, is a must-see. The whole family will immediately feel like a noble family.

Along the way, you regularly bump into comfortable picnic benches that have been placed in the most beautiful locations. They’re the perfect place to unwind with a sandwich or an elaborate lunch.

Never a dull moment

In Wannegem, the next picturesque village on the route, the Schietsjampettermolen shines in the landscape. Did you know that a mill has adorned the horizon here since the 16th century? Feel free to climb to the top and marvel at the sweeping views of the region. The handy orientation table will help you if you want to spot Ghent’s towers in the distance.

Once you are back down, keep on walking until you reach the next landmark: the Huisekoutermolen. This mill still turns and grinds; it was fully restored in 2016. If you feel hungry, stop by Restaurant De Zwaan. This stylish restaurant serves refined dishes full of flavour and fresh ingredients.

Farmer’s golf, the ideal activity

If you are out and about with the little ones, you can interrupt the walk and play a round of farmer’s golf. Simply walk to Valleihoeve in Huise – the last village on your route. This farm is bursting with rural adventure. You can fill your stomach in the snack bar or enjoy a refreshing ice cream on the patio. But a round of farmer’s golf is an indispensable ingredient for an unforgettable day with the family.

Armed with a few golf clubs and a large golf ball, you set off into the fields of the valley. You follow a really fun course while competing against each other. Afterwards, fill your backpack with goodies from the farm shop so that you can relish the memory at home. Not quite ready to leave this beautiful village? Then pop into Café Tonneke or Café De Vaderlander for a quick energy boost.

Back to Mullem again

You’ll finish where you started: at the church in Mullem. Be sure to check out Restaurant In De Kroon, where you can relax with a nice glass of wine or a refreshing glass of beer. They also serve tasty snacks here, to regain your strength.

Ready to try this route? Then quickly make your way to Mullem and start at the church!