The best walks and hikes around Erpe-Mere

🚴 Gotegemberg & Cabaré – in the wheel of Lucien Van Impe Whoever says Gotegemberg, says cycling! This climb in Mere is known as one of the tougher leg-burners in the region and also has a great story to tell. Lucien Van Impe, the 1976 Tour winner, used to power up this climb countless times as a young rider. His training sessions on the Flemish hills were meant to prepare him for the real work in the high mountains. The information board along the route takes you back to that legendary ‘Summer of ’76’ for a moment. 🚴‍♂️🏆 After such a climb, you naturally want only one thing: rest! And Volkscafé Cabaré happens to be nearby. 😉 So, first, follow in the footsteps of Lucien Van Impe, then relax in the cozy courtyard of Cabaré with a cold beer or coffee. Gotegemberg for your calves, Cabaré for the post-race enjoyment. A combination that even Lucien would probably have savored! 🍻

Volkscafé Cabaré – a pint in the Flemish style If you want to experience a touch of authentic Flemish café atmosphere during your tour, you should definitely stop at Volkscafé Cabaré in Erpe-Mere. This cozy, traditional folk café is wonderfully located in the countryside and still breathes the old-fashioned atmosphere of brick, beer advertisements, and regulars. On the charming courtyard, it's wonderful to relax after a few kilometers through the surrounding fields. Whether you're going for a fresh pint, a local beer, or just a strong coffee: here, the motto above all is "sit down for a while, and the rest will follow". 😉 An ideal stop for hikers and cyclists who want to collect not only kilometers but also some Flemish coziness along the way. Tip: the café is usually closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can therefore safely interrupt your tour here for a well-deserved break.

My uncle Edgard made that offering box and it's still there! The oak beam was replaced 20 years ago and painted in the colors as they are still today.

Hidden between the greenery of Impe and Lede lies Brasserie De Wijmenier: a warm place where peace, nature, and coziness come together. Ideal for starting, pausing, or pleasantly ending your walk. Here you can enjoy pure, homemade dishes in a relaxed atmosphere that feels like coming home. No rush, no crowds — just the smell from the kitchen, the crackling of the stove, and the charm of the wooden interior. A nice stop for hikers who love nature, simplicity, and coziness.

The Geelstervallei owes its name to the mysterious forest starflower. This rare plant adorns the banks of the Molenbeek, the area's lifeline. A healthy dose of wild nature, unpaved paths with a touch of adventure, flowers, birdsong, and wonder: that's what you'll find here. The nature reserve is freely accessible to walkers all year round, as long as you stay on the paths. Keep in mind that you are crossing a flood-prone valley. Mud is definitely part of it. Boots are essential in the winter half of the year, while sturdy hiking shoes suffice in the summer. Dogs on a leash are welcome. The Wijmenierpad hiking trail refers to an old craft: the harvesting of 'wijmen' or young willow branches by basket weavers. The walk starts at the former home of the last basket weaver, now a tavern of the same name. The Sterretjespad hiking trail starts at the Oude Mol, the oldest café in Impe, and refers to the abundant presence of lesser celandine, a typical spring bloomer.

A tough climb and training course by Lucien Van Impe, the last Belgian Tour winner in 1976

Rest point with friendly owner and large covered courtyard (during the summer)

A place that is still awaiting thorough renovation due to the death of its owner.