The best walks and hikes around Comines
4.4
(1912)
11,331
hikers
26
hikes
Hiking around Comines offers diverse landscapes along the Franco-Belgian border, characterized by the meandering River Lys and extensive woodlands. The region features nature reserves like Vert Digue and Bois du Gheer, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. These areas combine natural beauty with historical significance, offering a mix of riverside paths, forest trails, and open spaces.
Best hiking trails around Comines
- The most popular hiking route is Vert Digue Nature Reserve – Comines Square loop from Comines, a 9.2 miles (14.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours 45 minutes to complete. This moderate route explores the natural environment of the Vert Digue Nature Reserve.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Singletrack in the Forest – Comines Square loop from Comines, a moderate 6.2 miles (9.9 km) path. This trail leads through wooded areas, offering a natural forest experience.
- Local hikers also love the De Balokken – De Balokken Marina loop from Comines, a 5.6 miles (9.0 km) trail leading through the De Balokken area, often completed in about 2 hours 17 minutes.
- Hiking around Comines is defined by riverside paths along the Lys, extensive woodlands such as Bois du Gheer, and protected nature reserves. The network offers options for easy strolls, moderate excursions, and more challenging routes.
- The routes in Comines are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1800 reviews. More than 11000 hikers have used komoot to explore Comines's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
4.5
(4)
28
hikers
14.5km
03:41
30m
30m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
24
hikers
9.90km
02:30
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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12
hikers
9.56km
02:28
50m
50m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
11
hikers
9.48km
02:24
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(11)
79
hikers
9.03km
02:17
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Definetly need to see that church if you are in the area. It looks like no others close by.
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A somewhat strange church, at first I thought it was a mosque. The town hall is also worth seeing.
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Initially located in the grounds of the Château Blanc, when it was bought by the Dalle-Dumont family in 1919, they moved the cemetery to the foot of the hill in May 1921. Around 500 of the soldiers buried here fell in the fierce fighting of the First Battle of Ypres in October and November 1914.
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The German cemetery of Wervicq-Sud. Around 500 of the soldiers buried here fell during the fierce fighting of the First Battle of Ypres in October and November 1914.
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On this square, opposite the town hall with belfry (originally 13th century, but the current statue dates from 1623), stands the imposing Sint-Chrysolius church. Impressive, not least because it was built in the neo-Byzantine style, which is quite exceptional for a Catholic church. The construction of the church started in 1925, after the old church was destroyed in W.O. I was destroyed. It was a building by the architects Maurice Storez and Dom Bellot. Reinforced concrete was used for the framework of the building, an innovative material at the time. This framework was filled with multicolored bricks. The church was dedicated on July 7, 1928; it took until 1929 before it was completely finished. Source: Wikipedia
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Pleasure craft have their own place in Wervik with the small marina on the recreational island of De Balokken. In the middle of an oasis of greenery and along an old arm of the Leie you will find a quay wall of just under 200 meters with wooden transverse jetties, a slipway and mooring facilities for fast vessels.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available around Comines?
Comines offers a diverse selection of over 25 hiking trails. These routes cater to various preferences, including easy strolls, moderate excursions, and a few more challenging options, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Comines has plenty of easy trails. Approximately 10 routes are classified as easy, perfect for a relaxed walk. Many of these follow the gentle banks of the River Lys or explore the urban parks like Parc des Prés de la Lys.
Can I find circular hiking routes in Comines?
Absolutely. Many trails in Comines are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Comines Square – Vert Digue Nature Reserve loop offers a moderate 9.5 km experience through natural landscapes.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in the area?
Comines is very family-friendly. The paths along the River Lys and within the Parc des Prés de la Lys are ideal for families. The Adeps Connected Trail, starting from Comines' Cultural Centre, also offers a 5 km route with interactive panels and a treasure hunt via the Totemus app, making it engaging for children.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Comines?
Hikers in Comines will encounter a rich variety of natural landscapes. The region is defined by the meandering River Lys, extensive woodlands like Bois du Gheer and Bois de la Hutte (Natura 2000 sites), and protected areas such as the Vert Digue Nature Reserve. You can expect riverside paths, dense forests, and diverse flora and fauna, including opportunities for birdwatching at the Ploegsteert Nature and Bird Sanctuary.
Are there any historical sites or points of interest along the hiking trails?
Yes, Comines has a significant historical context, particularly related to World War I. You can find remembrance trails and sites like The Bluff Memorial and Crater, Hill 60 preserved Battlefield, and the Pool of Peace (Spanbroekmolen Crater). The Bois du Gheer also contains inconspicuous shelters from its occupation during 1914-18.
Where can I find panoramic views while hiking in Comines?
For panoramic views, consider exploring the area around Mont Noir (West), located on the French-Belgian border. This 152-meter summit offers expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, the Parc des Prés de la Lys provides magnificent views of the twin towns of Comines on both sides of the Lys river.
Is it possible to hike with dogs on the trails in Comines?
Many of the natural areas and trails in Comines are dog-friendly, especially those through woodlands like Bois du Gheer and along the River Lys. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Comines?
The hiking trails in Comines are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 1800 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the well-maintained paths, the peaceful natural environments, and the diverse scenery, from riverside walks to tranquil forest trails.
Are there any trails that follow canals or rivers?
Yes, the River Lys is a central feature of Comines' hiking landscape. You can enjoy pleasant walks along its banks, exploring ancient meanders. The historic Comines-Ypres Canal, though no longer operational for boats, also offers a unique trail through marshlands and reed beds, easily accessible on foot. The Lys–Yser Canal – Comines Square loop is a great option for this.
Are there any specific nature reserves worth exploring for hiking?
The Vert Digue Nature Reserve is a significant draw for hikers, offering several loop trails. The Vert Digue Nature Reserve – Comines Square loop is a popular moderate route that allows you to immerse yourself in this natural environment. Additionally, the Bois du Gheer and Bois de la Hutte are designated Natura 2000 ecological sites with diverse flora and fauna.
How can I access the hiking trails using public transport?
Comines has a railway station, and some trails, like the Comines-Ypres Canal Hike, are designed to start from there, offering convenient access. For specific routes, checking local bus schedules can help connect you to various trailheads. The municipality's 'Commune pédestre' label indicates a commitment to accessible walking paths.
Are there any trails that go through dense forests?
Yes, Comines is home to extensive woodlands. The Bois du Gheer and Bois de la Hutte, stretching over approximately 260 hectares, offer numerous communal paths through dense forests. The Singletrack in the Forest – Comines Square loop is a great example of a trail that leads through wooded areas, providing a natural forest experience.
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