The best walks and hikes around Erpe-Mere

🚴 Gotegemberg & Cabaré – in the wheel of Lucien Van Impe When you say Gotegemberg, you say cycling! This climb in Mere is known as one of the tougher calf-burners in the region and also has a great story to tell. This is where Lucien Van Impe, the 1976 Tour winner, came to grind his way up countless times as a young rider. His training on the Flemish hills was 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'. 🚴‍♂️🏆 After a climb like that, you naturally want only one thing: rest! And as it happens, Volkscafé Cabaré is located nearby. 😉 So, first follow in the footsteps of Lucien Van Impe, then flop down on the cozy courtyard of Cabaré with a cold beer or coffee. Gotegemberg for the calves, Cabaré for the après-ride. A combination that even Lucien would probably have enjoyed! 🍻

Volkscafé Cabaré – a beer the Flemish way If you want to soak up a touch of authentic Flemish café atmosphere during your trip, you should definitely stop at Volkscafé Cabaré in Erpe-Mere. This cozy, traditional pub is beautifully situated in the countryside and still breathes that old-fashioned atmosphere of brick, beer advertisements, and regulars. The atmospheric courtyard is a wonderful place to relax after a few kilometers through the surrounding fields. Whether you go for a fresh pint, a local beer, or just a strong coffee: the motto here is “just sit down, and the rest will follow”. 😉 An ideal stopover for hikers and cyclists who want to collect not only kilometers but also some Flemish conviviality along the way. Tip: The café is generally closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From Wednesday to Sunday, you can safely interrupt your trip 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.