Walking in the Hageland: Broekem Walk
Broekem Walk
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Start: Horst Castle
At the Medieval moated castle of Horst we put on our walking shoes. The castle is most famous as the inspiration behind De Rode Ridder, a Flemish comic strip series about a brave knight which is particularly popular in Flanders and the Netherlands. Even for those unfamiliar with this hero, the castle is a unique piece of local culture. The traditional moat and the coach house, which was restored (and transformed into an inn) in the 1990s, still conjure up the Medieval ambience and the chivalrous stories. Although the castle is currently being restored, you can reserve a tour on the building site. The historical re-enactment group, the Pynnock Ridders, comes here to practise every Sunday morning from April to October, and revives the spirit of the 13th century during the annual castle festivities. And here's another mysterious fact: according to legend, a black coach, drawn by six dark horses, appears every day at midnight on the avenue. It disappears into the castle keep. It is said to be the ghost of the lord of the castle, who once murdered his chaplain ...
St Jozef's chapel with winter linden
It is lovely to walk around the pond in the quiet green surrounding of Horst Castle. So, it is well worth continuing your walk. In an open meadow along the road to the nearby village of Lubbeek, under an ancient linden tree, we encounter St Jozef's chapel. This charming brick chapel from the early 19th century is allegedly the most photographed chapel in Flanders. It is a popular stop for walkers and an idyllic scene for photographers. From the bench you get a lovely view across the open Hageland countryside.
Gempemolen
When you arrive in the rural community of Tielt-Winge, the Gempemolen comes into view. This 17th-century watermill was once used to mill grain and is now a protected monument in the nature area where the streams of the Molenbeek, Sassenbeek and Kraaiwinkelbeek converge. Get a taste of the nostalgia in the mill's stunning authentic decor, which is now used as a bistro.
Troostembergbos
On the hilly flank of Troostemberg, we enter a forest that bears the same name. In this typical sloping forest in Hageland, the footpaths meander through gentle hills between the old beech trees. In the spring and autumn, the flora is at its most colourful. Way above you, you may hear some busy songbirds. Until 1981, the forest was owned by the noble ‘de Troostemberg’ family, which explains its name Troostembergbos.
Insidertip!
Are you interested in some adventurous accommodation? There's a 'bivouac zone' in this forest, where you may pitch your tent for free! Don't forget to make an (obligatory) reservation beforehand.
Winge Valley
When leaving Troostembergbos, you will return to the Winge valley, an undiscovered delight in the Hageland. The river Winge flows in this nature area through woods, meadows and fields. Perhaps you will spot a deer, woodpecker or rare butterfly during your walk? A perfect place to escape the busy world for a while!
Thunenhoeve
Gradually, we return to where we started. Horst Castle looms in the distance. In the green surroundings near the castle, we continue to Thunenhoeve. This restored historical farmstead dating back to 1749 can only be reached on foot or by bike.
Arrival: Het Wagenhuis
We end our walk in the delightful bistro Het Wagenhuis in the grounds of Horst Castle. There, you can enjoy Flemish specialities made with seasonal produce or treat yourself to something sweet, like a Belgian waffle. Our Belgian beer culture is never far away. So here too, you can sample a traditionally brewed local beer. Horst beer takes its name from Horst Castle. This reference is repeated on the bottle label and accompanying glass. By the way, when sitting outside, you get a wonderful view of the Medieval castle that we are so excited about!
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