Past Bruegel, the Sonian Forest and Lambic
1. Cycling through Bruegel country – 53 km
The Pajottenland, also known as Bruegel’s country, is renowned for its rolling landscapes and rural charm. This region is characterised by a mix of open fields, small villages and beautiful natural surroundings. Along the way, you’ll discover a region rich in heritage, nature and traditions. The landscape and village scenes were a source of inspiration for the artist Pieter Bruegel. Today, this area remains a place where tranquillity, culture and authenticity take centre stage.
In and around Sint-Anna-Pede, you’ll find various references to his paintings. Furthermore, reproductions of his works form a sort of open-air museum in the area. Along the way, you’ll stop off at five culinary stops, ranging from coffee and cake to a delicious dessert.
2. Through Brabantse Wouden National Park – 36 km
From August to October, everything in the Druivenstreek revolves once again around its most famous delicacy. Signs saying ‘table grapes for sale’ pop up everywhere, and plump, sweet bunches are ripening in the greenhouses.
Along the way, you’ll not only enjoy the Grape Region, but also get to taste it. From one delicious spot to the next, with the most beautiful scenery along the route. You’ll cycle past the ponds of Warandepark in Tervuren, beneath the canopy of the majestic beech trees of the Sonian Forest, and through the picturesque IJse Valley between Overijse and Hoeilaart. On the Duisburg Plateau, you’ll be treated to some stunning panoramic views to boot. And, of course, a visit to the Dru!f visitor centre is a must.
3. Exploring Lambiekland – 45 km
With the Senne as your guide, cycle through the region of Brettanomyces Bruxellensis and Brettanomyces Lambicus. The what? These wild yeasts float through the air along the riverbanks and have been triggering the spontaneous fermentation process of lambic beer for centuries. The secret of this unique beer therefore lies in the air and in the hands of the passionate lambic brewers.
You’ll start your day with coffee and pastries at Koffiebar Falco, enjoy lunch at Bierhuis Oud Beersel, and round off the day with a lambic tasting at the Den Herberg brewery and café. Along the way, you’ll cycle through the rolling, green countryside, passing, amongst other sights, the impressive St Martin’s Basilica in Halle and the famous Boon brewery.
More Eats and Rides
Got a taste for it? In Flemish Brabant, you can enjoy even more ‘Happen en Trappen’. Explore the beetroot region, the Hageland, and the ‘white gold’ of Noord-Dijleland. Cycling has never tasted so good.