The 12 Most Amazing Peaks in West Flanders
Best mountain peaks in West Flanders are found in the southern part of the province, characterized by a series of modest hills known as "witness hills." These elevations, while not conventional mountains, hold historical and recreational significance. The region offers opportunities for hiking and cycling, with varied landscapes including woodlands, meadows, and historical sites.
Best mountain peaks in West Flanders
- The most popular mountain peaks is Hill 60 preserved Battlefield (World War I), a historical site that was a strategic point during World War I. This preserved battlefield is a significant memorial to the conflict.
- Another must-see spot is Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side, a climb that runs along orchards and meadows. This ascent offers views and is known for its moderate gradient.
- Visitors also love Observation Point De Geitenberg-Koossem, a viewpoint. This location serves as a bird migration counting station, offering wide views of the landscape.
- West Flanders is known for its historical sites, viewpoints, and climbs. The region offers a variety of mountain peaks to see and explore, from battlefields to scenic overlooks.
- The mountain peaks in West Flanders are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 330 upvotes and 170 photos shared.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
Hill 60 preserved Battlefield (World War I)
Highlight • Historical Site
Source: hiking guide Flanders route GR 128
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Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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View from the Hoge Blekker
Highlight • Viewpoint
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French Soldiers' Memorial (1914–1918), Kemmelberg
Highlight • Monument
The tower is free to enter on Fridays and Saturdays (from 2 p.m.) and Sundays (from 12 p.m.).
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IGM Kemmelberg Summit Marker
Highlight • Monument
About 2,500 years ago, a Celtic community belonging to the Hallstatt culture settled on the Kemmelberg. The Celts built a fortress and maintained a trading relationship with the Romans.
During the First World War, the Kemmelberg was a strategic point and was heavily fought over by the warring parties. During the spring offensive of 1918, German troops under General Friedrich Bertram Sixt von Armin took possession of the Kemmelberg on April 25. The next day a French counterattack took place, but the German troops advanced as far as the Dikkebusvijver. On April 29, the German advance was halted and the fighting continued until the end of July 1918. On September 5, the Kemmelberg was recaptured by the Allied troops with the help of the Americans. After the fighting, the hill was bare and was replanted with deciduous tree species.
Archaeological excavations were carried out from the 1960s onwards.
On the western flank there is a French mass grave containing the remains of more than 5,000 French soldiers who died in the First World War. At the top is a memorial column, the Monument Aux Soldats Français, erected in 1932 and inaugurated by General Lacappelle. The column is 17 meters high and depicts the Roman goddess of victory Victoria. The monument is called "Monument Aux Soldats Francais" and is popularly called "The Angel". The column was originally 18 meters high, on top of the column was a laurel wreath with a French soldier's helmet on top, which disappeared after a lightning strike in the 1970s.
On the southern edge is the Kemmel command bunker, a former Cold War command bunker of the Belgian army, which has been used as a war museum since the end of October 2009.
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Lijstermolen on the Baneberg
Highlight • Monument
The top of the slope is between the Rodeberg and the Vidaigneberg. Near the top there is a thrush mill. There is a chairlift (Cordoba) between the Baneberg and the Vidaigneberg, which floats over the saddle valley between the two "mountains" over the vineyards of Entre-Deux-Monts with views over Northern France and the Belgian coastal plain. The top is 140 meters. The name comes from the Bane family who owned the mountain in the 13th and 14th centuries.
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Highest Point of the Dunes
Highlight • Summit
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Monteberg Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
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View of Loker from the Rodeberg
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tips from the Community
The observation point on the Geitenberg is a bird migration counting point. Every autumn, the bird working group of Natuurpunt counts at a few traditional migration sites in the region. Under normal weather conditions, the posts are manned every weekend in October. In principle, counting starts at sunrise, and in good (bird of prey) migration weather often continues until sunset. In good migration conditions, counting also takes place outside of weekends and then from September to November. Source: natuurpunt.be
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The summit of the slope lies between the Rodeberg and the Vidaigneberg. Near the summit stands the Lijstermolen (Listers Mill). A chairlift runs between the Baneberg and the Vidaigneberg, gliding over the saddle valley between the two "mountains" and the vineyards of the Entre-Deux-Monts, offering panoramic views of northern France and the Belgian coastal plain. The summit is 140 meters high. The name comes from the Bane family, who owned the mountain in the 13th and 14th centuries. The slope is also sometimes called Gildestraat (Gilde Street). https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baneberg
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Authentic and unspoiled. We saw an incredible carpet of flowers growing in the sand dunes.
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At the top of the Belgium mountains. Hard climb up a cobbled street but worth the effort
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From the top of the Rodeberg you have a wide view over the rolling hills of the Westhoek, which are famous for their natural beauty and the war history that played an important role here. Loker itself lies at the foot of the Rodeberg and is a typical picturesque village, surrounded by vast fields and green meadows.
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Strategic hill called Hill 60 in the First World War.
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Welcome to De Hoge Blekker, with its 33 meters the highest dune in the entire Flemish coastal region. A striking appearance and an impressive eye-catcher. The dune used to be a fixed navigation point for sailors. From a distance they could see the white back as a kind of 'flash' ('bleach' is the local dialect for 'flash'). The Hoge Blekker is a drifting dune that has covered some distances over time. The dune now covers an area of approximately 33 hectares. Enough room for a picnic stop!
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Just enjoy the beautiful views.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest point in West Flanders?
The highest point in West Flanders is the Kemmelberg, reaching an altitude of 154 to 161 meters (505 to 528 feet). It is located near the village of Kemmel in the municipality of Heuvelland and offers panoramic views from the Belvédère Tower at its summit. You can find a summit marker at IGM Kemmelberg Summit Marker.
Are there historical sites among the peaks in West Flanders?
Yes, West Flanders' peaks are rich in history, particularly from World War I. The Kemmelberg was a strategic point during the war, and you can find the Monument Aux Soldats Français at its summit. Another significant historical site is Hill 60 preserved Battlefield (World War I), which was a heavily contested area.
What natural features can I expect to see on these hills?
The hills of West Flanders, while modest in height, offer diverse natural beauty. You can explore woodlands, meadows, and even vineyards, especially around the Kemmelberg. The Rodeberg is known for its picturesque forests, like the Hellegatbos. In late April, the slopes of Kemmelberg are covered in purple bluebells and hyacinths.
Are there family-friendly viewpoints or activities on the peaks?
Absolutely. Many viewpoints are suitable for families. For instance, Observation Point De Geitenberg-Koossem is a bird migration counting station offering wide views. The View of Loker from the Rodeberg also provides expansive views over the Westhoek and is considered family-friendly.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the West Flanders peaks?
The region is excellent for various outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling are very popular, with many trails winding through the hills. You can find numerous options for easy hikes, as well as routes for cycling and running.
What is the best time of year to visit the West Flanders peaks?
Spring and autumn are particularly beautiful. In late April, the slopes of Kemmelberg are covered in purple bluebells and hyacinths, offering a stunning natural spectacle. Autumn provides pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, along with vibrant fall foliage.
Are there challenging climbs for cyclists in West Flanders?
Yes, the hills of West Flanders are famous in the cycling world, especially for their challenging climbs. The Kemmelberg, for example, features cobbled sections with gradients reaching up to 23%, making it a pivotal climb in races like Gent-Wevelgem. You can also experience climbs like Tiegemberg Ascent via Back Side and Monteberg Climb.
Can I find less crowded trails or hidden gems among the peaks?
While popular spots like Kemmelberg attract visitors, the broader Heuvelland region offers many trails through its various hills. Exploring areas around Scherpenberg, for instance, provides access to protected landscapes with fontinal woods and wet spring meadows, which can offer a quieter experience. The Hellegatbos on Rodeberg also provides a serene hiking area.
What kind of views can I expect from the peaks?
From the various peaks and viewpoints, you can expect wide, panoramic views of the surrounding West Flemish landscape. These often include rolling hills, picturesque villages, vast fields, and green meadows. On clear days, from the Kemmelberg, you might even catch a glimpse of the coast.
Are there any unique historical or archaeological findings related to these hills?
Yes, the hills hold interesting historical and archaeological significance. The Kemmelberg was home to a Celtic community 2,500 years ago and has seen archaeological excavations since the 1960s. On the Scherpenberg, a large-scale concrete relief map was used by British troops during World War I, and prehistoric seashells and shark's teeth have been discovered there.
What is the significance of the 'witness hills' in West Flanders?
The 'witness hills' of West Flanders, such as Kemmelberg, Rodeberg, and Scherpenberg, are unique geological formations. They were formed from ancient sandbanks that petrified into hard sandstone, resisting erosion and standing as 'witnesses' to the geological history of the otherwise flat region. They offer distinct elevations and microclimates.
Most popular routes in West Flanders
Most popular attractions in West Flanders
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