The best walks and hikes around Mesen
4.6
(2208)
11,652
hikers
18
hikes
Hiking around Mesen, located in West Flanders, Belgium, offers a landscape characterized by rolling hills and gently sloping terrain. The region features a mosaic of agricultural fields and woodlands, providing varied and engaging walks. Many trails are interwoven with historical World War I sites, allowing for exploration of both natural features and remembrance. The area's green roads and undulating scenery define its appeal for outdoor exploration.
Best hiking trails around Mesen
- The most popular hiking route is Irish Peace Park…
Last updated: June 18, 2026
4.4
(17)
131
hikers
12.5km
03:17
110m
110m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.9
(15)
58
hikers
10.6km
02:47
90m
90m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.8
(10)
56
hikers
3.68km
00:57
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(7)
44
hikers
23.7km
06:14
200m
200m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
51
hikers
15.7km
04:09
140m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Mesen
Tips from the Community
The column is actually at the Irish memorial. The N-Z memorial is a bit further on, I think
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Unpaved path near a bridge where the tram track used to run.
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At Christmas 1914, soldiers on both sides laid down their weapons here and even played football. There are explanations and a memorial here.
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Around the raised platform on which the Cross of Sacrifice stands are panels with the names of the regiments and the 828 officers and men of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force who have no known grave and who died in or around Messines in 1917 and 1918. Most of them fell during the Second Battle of Messines. The Irish Peace Park, the round tower is a typical Irish symbol and commemorates all Irish soldiers who died during WWI. The Peace Park also refers to the Mine Battle of 1917, when Catholic and Protestant Irish soldiers fought side by side.
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The Battle of Messines was one of the best-prepared operations of the war, with deep tunnels dug beneath German positions to place heavy mines. The statue commemorates the sacrifices and bravery of New Zealand soldiers during this crucial battle.
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The New Zealand Soldier Statue is a memorial to all soldiers of the New Zealand Division who fought in the Battle of Messines Ridge on 7 June 1917. The monument stands in the centre of the town and symbolises the enduring bond between New Zealand and Messines since the First World War.
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In front of the tourist information office in the heart of Mesen stands an impressive bronze statue commemorating an exceptional moment of humanity during the First World War: the Christmas Truce of 1914. The statue, designed by British artist Andrew Edwards, depicts a British and a German soldier shaking hands, with a football at their feet. It symbolizes the spontaneous ceasefire on Christmas Day, when soldiers from both sides left their trenches, sang Christmas carols together, exchanged gifts, and even played a game of football in no man's land. After a tour through Europe – with stops at Wembley Stadium and Ypres, among others – the statue found its permanent home in Mesen in 2015, where the Christmas Truce actually took place. It is 3.7 meters long and 2.5 meters high, and radiates a powerful message of peace, unity, and hope.
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The New Zealand Division Memorial is a memorial to the New Zealand Division that fought in the First World War. The memorial is located in the Messines Ridge British Cemetery and commemorates 827 officers and men of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force who were killed near Messines in 1917 and 1918. New Zealand troops played a crucial role in retaking the village on 7 June 1917.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Mesen?
There are over 18 hiking routes to explore around Mesen, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging treks. The komoot community has rated these routes highly, with an average score of 4.6 stars.
What is the typical terrain like for hiking in Mesen?
Hiking in Mesen features an undulating landscape with gently sloping terrain and green roads winding through agricultural fields. While not mountainous, the rolling hills provide engaging ascents and descents, often intertwined with significant World War I sites.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Mesen?
Yes, Mesen offers 4 easy hiking routes. A great option for families or those seeking a shorter walk is the Irish Peace Park – Wayside Chapel of Our Lady of Mesen loop from Mesen - Messines, which is 2.3 miles (3.7 km) long and takes about an hour to complete, leading through historical sites and green paths.
What historical landmarks or viewpoints can I see while hiking in Mesen?
Mesen's hiking trails are rich with history. You can visit significant Great War sites like the Messines Ridge British Cemetery, the Irish Peace Park with its distinctive round tower, and the New Zealand Battlefield Memorial Park. The Hellegat Forest is also a notable natural feature. Soon, the St. Nicholas Church Tower will offer panoramic views over the battlefields and the Heuvelland region.
Are there any circular hiking routes around Mesen?
Yes, many of the trails around Mesen are circular. For example, the popular Irish Peace Park loop from Mesen is a moderate 6.6-mile (10.6 km) path that features gentle climbs and descents through the historical landscape. Another option is the Irish Peace Park – The Miner – Wijtschate loop from Mesen - Messines, a 7.8-mile (12.5 km) moderate trail connecting several historical sites.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Mesen?
The komoot community highly rates hiking in Mesen, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 1900 reviews. Hikers often praise the unique blend of serene, undulating natural landscapes with the poignant historical World War I sites, offering a reflective and engaging experience.
Are there any longer or more challenging hikes in the Mesen area?
Yes, for those seeking a more challenging experience, Mesen offers 3 difficult routes. One such option is the Hutte Woods – UEFA Christmas Truce Monument loop from Mesen - Messines, a demanding 23.8-mile (38.3 km) trail with significant elevation changes.
Can I find places to eat or rest along the hiking trails in Mesen?
The region is known for its 'old-fashioned resting places' along the green roads, providing spots for a break. While specific cafes or pubs aren't detailed for every route, Mesen and nearby towns offer amenities where you can find refreshments and meals after your hike.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Mesen?
Mesen's gently sloping terrain and green fields make it suitable for hiking across multiple seasons. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Even in winter, the historical landscapes can offer a unique, reflective experience, though conditions may be cooler and wetter.
Are there any other attractions near Mesen that I can combine with a hike?
Absolutely. Beyond the immediate hiking trails, you can explore other significant sites like the Cloth Hall (Lakenhalle) in Ypres, the Kemmelberg, or the Menin Gate Memorial. These attractions offer further insight into the region's history and natural beauty.
Is Mesen a good destination for hikers interested in World War I history?
Mesen is an exceptional destination for those interested in World War I history. Many trails directly pass through or connect significant battlefields, memorials, and cemeteries, such as the Messines Ridge British Cemetery, the Irish Peace Park, and the New Zealand Battlefield Memorial Park. The Via Sacra – Western Front Way, a long-distance route tracing the entire Western Front, also passes through Mesen, offering a deeply immersive historical hiking experience.
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