Muziekbos walking route
Muziekbos walking route
Start
Start: IJsmolenhoeve
Rendezvous in Ronse at the foot of the Muziekberg, where we can treat our taste buds at the 15th -century IJsmolenhoeve. The brasserie is open on Wednesdays, weekends and holidays. Children will have a great time on the adventure course or in the petting zoo. It is the perfect way to start the Muziekbos walking route. Want to spend more time in Ronse? Why not book an overnight stay here in a lodge tent or a holiday home?
Chapel of Our Lady of Loreto
On the southern flank of the Muziekberg, we walk past the Chapel of Our Lady of Loreto . Pastor Christophe Delentere had this chapel built in the 17th century so that the faithful of the area had a nearby place to attend Mass on Sundays. Those curious to learn more can visit the chapel on Saturdays in May between 3 pm and 5 pm. The Fiertel Procession also stops there every first Sunday after Pentecost. This 32.6 km heritage route is one of the main events in Ronse.
The Muziekbos
Muziekbos sits on a witness hill, a solitary hill that remained as a silent witness in the landscape after erosion due to wind and water. From the forest edges, you are treated to beautiful views of the surrounding landscape of the Flemish Ardennes. Experience the enchanting magic of the forest: climb the Muziekberg along winding paths, walk across the raised wooden pathways and enjoy the sounds of nature. But don't be fooled. Although the name suggests otherwise, the Muziekbos has nothing to do with music. 'Muz' is an old Celtic word for 'swamp', a reference to the damp soil of earlier times. This is also a wonderful place for children. They will have loads of fun in the play areas in the middle of the forest.
Tip: In spring, the entire forest looks like it is covered by a blue and purple carpet of flowering woodland hyacinths.
The Geuzen Tower
Geuzen Tower, a medieval-looking round tower built of ironstone. It was here that local poet Omer Wattez coined the name 'Flemish Ardennes', after an inspiring walk. The hills and villages of this region come to life in his lyrical texts. Take a seat on the 'sinnenbank', as the typical resting benches of this region are known, and admire this mysterious structure. It's easy to imagine Rapunzel 'letting down her hair' from this tower.
Insidertip!
The Muziekbos has several 'sinnenbank' benches where you can stop to catch your breath, have a picnic and, above all, enjoy the beautiful views and nature. 'Sinnen' means to ponder, muse or enjoy. They provide a great way to quietly enjoy the tranquillity of the Muziekbos.
Arrival: Boekzitting
We end our walk at Boekzitting bistro along the edge of the Muziekbos. The name refers to an ancient beech tree that stood here until the 1970s. 'Boek' is the old word for 'beech'. According to one of the many stories, sagas and legends, justice was administered here and criminals were given the chance to reflect on their actions while chained to the tree. But don't worry. It's now a wonderful place where you can enjoy good food in a green setting.
Boekzitting Muziekbos - Boekzitting 26 - 9600 Ronse
Finish
