The best MTB trails around Ninove

I'd qualify "fairly wide" somewhat. Definitely narrower than many other towpaths. And used by many different recreational users during the WE.

Ninove, which acquired city rights in the 14th century, was defended by a castle, a tower, and an earthen rampart, interrupted by four city gates. The gates provided access to the city via the four main approaches: the Brabantse Poort on the road from Brussels, the Geraardsbergse Poort on the road from the city of the same name, and the Kloosterpoort on the road from Aalst. The Koepoort provided access to the Nederwijk (hence also called Nederwijkpoort), the Kouter, and the Dendermeersen. In peacetime, all gates served as housing for the poor, a storehouse for powder and weapons, and a prison. By the end of the 18th century, three of Ninove's four city gates had been demolished. Where they once stood, you now find reminders: a fountain with two turrets (Brabantse Poort), a work of art (Geraardsbergse Poort), and two memorial stones (Kloosterpoort). The Koepoort's survival from demolition likely stems from the fact that it stood least in the way of the city's systematic expansion. The Koepoort, first mentioned in 1397 under the name "Warmoespoort," was completely rebuilt around 1600. It was constructed of sandstone from the quarries of Geraardsbergen and, after its restoration, officially served as the city prison. Because, unlike the other gates, it lacked a drawbridge, an earthen rampart was built around it in times of war. After its function as a city prison, the Koepoort successively housed the city's volunteer fire department and the library. It was then used as a venue for socio-cultural organizations. However, the ravages of time took their toll, and the building required a complete and thorough restoration, both interior and exterior.

There is a great cycleway or path running alongside the Dender River. It is quite wide and a fast flowing route to ride on. Quite flat and very little climbing, like many locations in this part of the world, but good cycling for all ages

At the Werf in Aalst stands the memorial to Father Daens, ceremonially unveiled in 1957, exactly 50 years after his death. Designed by Marc De Bruyn, the statue depicts Daens among workers and a mother with her child – a symbol of the hope and comfort he brought to the working class. The inscription on the monument reads: “Neither a slave nor a beggar may be a worker. He must be a free and prosperous man.” Financed by his followers, this monument remains a powerful tribute to the social struggle and ideals of Father Daens (1839–1907).

This small place of worship on the Dender River has a turbulent history. According to tradition, it was founded as early as 681 by Saint Amand after the discovery of a miraculous statue. After repeated destruction and reconstruction, it was given its current, simple yet modern appearance in 1955-56, designed by Stani De Neef and Alfons Singelijn. A place that exudes simplicity, yet simultaneously breathes centuries-old devotion and tradition.

René Magritte was born in a completely ordinary house.

The sculpture group is by artist Marc De Bruyn. It depicts Father Daens surrounded by a working-class family.

Rust ! 😄