Surroundings
Haaltert, a charming village near Aalst, offers a perfect mix of nature, culture and history. It’s an ideal base for both relaxation and adventure in the Dender region.
Nearby Cities
With its central location and excellent connections, Haaltert is an attractive base from which to explore nearby cities and regions.
Aalst A lively city with a rich tradition, best known for its famous carnival. Explore the Grote Markt, the historic belfry and the city park. A visit to ’t Gasthuys is also highly recommended.
Ghent A city full of history, culture and vibrant atmosphere. Visit the impressive Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the medieval Gravensteen and stroll along the picturesque canals. Art lovers will enjoy a day trip to museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts Ghent and SMAK.
Brussels As the capital of Belgium, Brussels offers an abundance of sights and experiences. Highlights include the Grand Place, the iconic Atomium, Manneken Pis, and museums such as the Magritte Museum. Perfect for a day filled with culture, shopping and enjoying Belgian gastronomy.
Bruges Also known as the “Venice of the North,” Bruges is an absolute must-see. Wander through its cobbled streets, enjoy a boat tour along the canals, and visit the Belfry of Bruges, the Church of Our Lady, and the Groeningemuseum. The historic city center, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a romantic atmosphere and rich history not to be missed.
Kortrijk In Kortrijk, you can explore the historic Broel Towers, the Beguinage of Kortrijk, and the Grote Markt. This dynamic city is also known for its strong design and architectural heritage, with museums and art galleries showcasing the region’s creativity. Kortrijk offers an ideal blend of history and contemporary culture.
Dendermonde This charming city along the Scheldt offers a beautiful mix of historic architecture and scenic riverside walks. Perfect for a relaxed day trip.
Ninove A smaller city with green spaces and a selection of pleasant restaurants and shops. Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the scenic routes that wind through the rural Flemish countryside surrounding the city.
Walking
The Dender region offers beautiful walking opportunities for nature lovers. The Neigembos is an absolute must: an impressive woodland that transforms in spring into a sea of wild bluebells and wild garlic, creating an almost fairy-tale atmosphere.
In addition, the new Dendervallei Noord Walking Network is ideal for exploring the region, with well-marked paths through scenic landscapes and along the winding River Dender. The network gives walkers the flexibility to choose shorter or longer routes and discover the area’s natural beauty at their own pace.
Cycling
From Haaltert, cycling enthusiasts can easily explore the Flemish Ardennes, with routes leading to iconic climbs such as the Muur van Geraardsbergen and the Bosberg, both famous from the Tour of Flanders. These challenging hills are a true test but reward you with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
For those who prefer a more relaxed ride, flatter routes run along the River Dender and the Molenbeek. These paths take you past picturesque villages and lush green landscapes, making them perfect for an easy and enjoyable day of cycling.
Culinary Highlights
Don’t forget to indulge in the local gastronomy! Haaltert and its surroundings are home to a variety of cozy restaurants and brasseries where you can savor authentic Flemish dishes, perfectly paired with delicious local beers.
Brasserie Goestink This atmospheric brasserie is known for its Belgian classics and seasonal menu. With a terrace and a relaxed setting, it’s an ideal spot for both lunch and dinner.
Hof Ten Bruul A charming eatery where you can enjoy Belgian and French cuisine. With its warm, homely atmosphere, it’s a favorite among locals.
Apriori For a refined culinary experience, Apriori serves elegant Belgian cuisine with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients. A true destination for food lovers, the restaurant is also listed in Gault&Millau.
De Vondel This Belgian restaurant offers a warm welcome and a varied menu featuring regional specialties. Ideal for those looking to enjoy local flavors in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
Mijn Frituur For a quick yet tasty bite, Mijn Frituur is highly recommended. With a wide selection of fries and classic snacks, it delivers an authentic Belgian fries experience.
Other Activities
Looking for something different to do? The following activities might be just what you need to add some excitement to your day…
JumpSky Trampolinepark This indoor trampoline and adventure park features a 4,000 m² hall packed with trampolines, swinging and climbing elements, obstacle courses and bouncy castles. A perfect mix of challenge, adventure and fun for all ages.
The Outsider Aalst Ready to take on a high ropes course or challenge the waters around Aalst? At The Outsider, you’re in the right place for a day packed with 100% adventure and outdoor excitement.
Zwembad Aquatopia A modern swimming and recreation complex featuring multiple pools, including a 50-meter pool for lap swimmers and a 25-meter pool for leisure swimming. Families and children will love Pols Speelparadijs, a colorful water play area with several slides, perfect for hours of fun.
Pairi Daiza Located in Brugelette, about an hour’s drive away, this exceptional animal park is perfect for a family day out. Pairi Daiza is home to animals from all over the world and is renowned for its beautifully designed themed gardens, offering a unique and immersive experience for all ages.