GR Flemish Ardennes

However, the Flemish Ardennes are not an open-air museum either. Of course, people also live and work here in the 21st century and you see new subdivisions popping up, ribbon buildings, and more and more pavement. The strong modeling of the landscape by man is also noticeable in the remaining forest and nature reserves: they are all gems with sometimes even a sensational plant bloom, but they’re only small remnants of formerly much larger forests.

This chunk of the hilly Flanders is quite varied and occasionally even a bit challenging, although the short and sometimes even sharp slopes cannot be compared with the real Ardennes, let alone with European central mountains.

Our ancestors strongly kneaded the landscape of the Flemish Ardennes into what you see today: a patchwork of plucked forest, meadows, fields, farms, allotments.

GR Flemish Ardennes has been developed in such a way that it is possible to walk as much as possible on unpaved paths, although it is often also on paved roads for a longer time. Nevertheless, you can conclude that this is one of the most varied long trips you can make in Flanders, and it is definitely recommended. This landscape is at its most beautiful in April and May when the dust of cycling madness has settled.

This hiking trail runs in a loop shape and about 40% of the path is unpaved and can therefore be muddy. The rest is lightly paved with pebbles or gravel and is fine to hike alone or with a partner. It is highly recommended to walk this path in the spring season. The months of April and May will spoil your sense of smell and create unforgettable memories.

How to Get Around

The train stations in the cities of Oudenaarde, Ronse, and Geraardsbergen are 0.5 to 1.5 km from GR Flemish Ardennes. The walking route also runs past 2 smaller stations in Lierde and Zandbergen.

Most villages are accessible by De Lijn buses, especially from places such as Oudenaarde, Ronse, Brakel, Geraardsbergen, Zottegem, and Ninove. However, quite a few smaller villages and hamlets depend on the dial-a-bus system, especially during the weekend.

Important public transportation websites:
Train: NMBS official website
Bus: De Lijn

The GR Flemish Ardennes is accessible all year round! Many people prefer the spring period because the flowers are in full bloom and it is less warm. In the summer months, most tourists come and accommodations can be full. But bars and restaurants are more open because of the summer season. The autumn period offers an exceptional view of Flemish nature. In the winter it can be quite cold, but still walkable.

I have a strong preference for spring as the most beautiful time to discover Region-GR Flemish Ardennes. In April, the forests first turn white from the many forest anemones, then some forests (such as the Koppenbergbos, Brakelbos, and Bos Ter Rijst) turn into a purple sea when bluebells bloom en masse. They are a delight for the eye and pleasant stimulation of the sense of smell. The entire month of May is also special in the Flemish-Ardennes landscape; trees present their fresh green leaves to the passing walker. During spring, avoid the days of the cycling classic Tour of Flanders, due to the crowds and cycling madness in the region. Unless you think that’s an extra asset, of course.

Rainy weather should not deter you from walking. Quite a few paths can be in muddy condition, but the rolling hills of the Flemish Ardennes are often the most attractive and contrasting under a cloudy sky. For example, we once walked on this regional GR in winter in stormy weather with rain, hail, and even snow gusts and with the occasional dash of sun. It produced beautiful images.

Be sure to bring enough water and snacks with you every day to maintain your energy and avoid dehydration or exhaustion. This means roughly 2 liters of water. We also recommend that you bring clothes that layer comfortably, with a hardshell rain jacket, just in case.

Check the weather before you hike each day and avoid being on the trail during extreme weather warnings. You can ask locals or check a weather radar app for information pertinent to your exact region.

Finally, Leave No Trace! Pack out your trash and leave the trail better than you found it.