Walking in t'Ename Forest

Ename is not only known for its beer – although that is an excellent reason to be well-known, wouldn’t you agree? t'Ename Forest, a stone’s throw from Oudenaarde, is a wonderful attraction for nature lovers, hikers and families. Its fauna and flora are just begging to be discovered. We have mapped out a straightforward walk that’s only 4.6 km, so you can easily complete this trip with younger children.

Start in the heart of Ename

The atmosphere is good right from the start. When you arrive in Ename, you’ll immediately be charmed by this cosy village. Perhaps you saw the remains of an abbey at the Ename Provincial Heritage Site when you arrived. It’s on the outskirts of the village.

Today, however, you drive straight to the Lijnwaadmarkt, in the heart of Ename. At number 20, you’ll find the PAM Ename. This archaeological museum zooms in on local village life from the Middle Ages to the present. A little further on, St Lawrence’s Church towers above the landscape. It’s a real gem.

Off we go!

Feel free to enjoy the beautiful buildings and the relaxed atmosphere for a while. Then walk towards Zwijndries, where the cobblestones have been protected as a monument since 1995. Turn into the Natusdreef, a dead end, a little further on. From this point on, you leave the inhabited world behind for a while. You can see the forest in the distance. Monks and farmers walked here for centuries. Today, it’s your turn.

‘t Ename Forest is a bit different from other forests. It has a staircase in the middle of it. It also offers magical views of Oudenaarde. Can you see the outline of St. Walburga Church? This scene looks like it was taken from a movie. If the weather is nice, you can even see as far as Ghent. Is that the tower of St. Bavo’s Cathedral in the distance?

Ideal for everyone

A lot of attention has gone into this walk. The entire route is signposted well, so that everyone can find their way easily. Nice additions such as steppingstones, the staircase in the forest, many birds and crossing bridges make this a wonderful walk to take with children.

The Scheldt Valley is your constant companion on this route. The famous Scheldt bricks were once made from the clay beneath your feet. As you can see, the whole journey is a succession of history, folklore, industry and...

Need to refuel? Absolutely!

...gastronomy, of course! After all, you can’t visit Ename without drinking an Ename! In Café Rimalin, for example, they have it on tap. The interior here seems straight out of the 1950s. And that’s why you’ll find this place so charming. During the cycling season, all the habitués huddle together in the Rimalin to enjoy the race together.

A little further on, you’ll find Huis Beaucarne, a tea house located in a phenomenal building. This mighty piece of heritage and the garden feel magical. Enjoy some tea or coffee – or an aperitif with some tapas – in the enclosed garden. And you can satisfy both small and big appetites in Eetcafé Paulette. Do not expect Michelin-star cuisine; they serve honest and simple dishes that are prepared and served in a delicious way. That’s all that is needed!

You can also stay the night!

If you feel tired after a wonderful day in the Flemish Ardennes, you can always stay the night in the area. For example, d’Eenaemsche Vierschaere holiday home is the ideal place for the whole family to escape and enjoy the peace and quiet of the region. It offers everything you might need, and it’s centrally located. All you have to do is relax.

Would you rather stay in a B&B? No problem! Reserve a room at B&B ‘t Huys van Enaeme – a listed residence in the centre. It offers three spacious rooms with box spring beds and lovely furniture. A gem you won’t want to leave.