The best dog-friendly hikes and walks in Abdij Van Westmalle

There are 19 dog-friendly hiking trails in Abdij Van Westmalle, offering a variety of experiences for you and your canine companion. Most of these, 12 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for many dogs and their owners.

You can expect diverse terrain, including expansive forests and picturesque meadows. Many routes feature unpaved forest paths, providing an immersive nature experience. The region also boasts undulating inland dunes, adding varied topography to your walks.

Yes, there are several easy dog-friendly circular walks. For example, the Molenbos Entrance – Nooitrust loop from Abdij van Westmalle is an easy 5 km route, perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. Another great option is the Trappisten Café, Westmalle – Molenbos Information Board loop from Abdij van Westmalle, which is 5.2 km and also rated easy.

Many trails offer glimpses of the region's unique heritage and natural beauty. You might encounter the Drieboomkensberg Pilgrimage Site, located on the highest peak of the inland dunes, or the historic Sint-Bernardus Chapel. The Hegte Heyde Nature Reserve also offers beautiful natural scenery.

While most trails are easy or moderate, there is one challenging dog-friendly hike for those seeking a longer adventure. The Vraagheide Forest Trails – Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond loop from Abdij van Westmalle is a demanding 20.9 km route that will test your endurance and provide a rewarding experience for you and your well-conditioned dog.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from 495 ratings. Reviewers often praise the tranquil atmosphere, the diverse natural settings, and the well-maintained paths that make it enjoyable for both hikers and their dogs.

While the abbey itself is not open for public tours, its presence is central to the area's character. Many trails, such as the popular Trappistenpad, allow you to walk around the abbey grounds and appreciate its architecture and serene atmosphere. The Sint-Bernardus Chapel – Nooitrust loop from Abdij van Westmalle is an easy 6.4 km route that also offers views of the chapel and surrounding area.

Yes, the Trappisten Café, Westmalle – Molenbos Information Board loop from Abdij van Westmalle starts conveniently at Café Trappisten. This café is located opposite the abbey and is an excellent starting or ending point, where you can enjoy local refreshments after your walk.

The region offers lush and ever-changing scenery throughout the seasons. From spring to autumn, you'll often see cows grazing in the meadows, adding to the pastoral charm. The unpaved forest paths are enjoyable in most seasons, but checking local weather conditions is always recommended.

Many trails traverse the heritage landscape, which reflects the historical work of the Cistercian monks. The Information post Trappist Walk – Molenbos Information Board loop from Hegte Heyde is an easy 7 km route that takes you through diverse natural settings, including portions of the Hegte Heyde Nature Reserve, offering great opportunities for nature observation.