The best running trails around Meulebeke

Kasteel Ter Borcht – where centuries of history come to life In the middle of Meulebeke lies Kasteel Ter Borcht, a moated domain with roots dating back to the 13th century. It was once the seat of the main lordship of Meulebeke. For centuries, lords and noble families dictated the comings and goings of the region here. In 1655, the domain even received royal recognition: Philip IV elevated the lordship to a barony. Through the centuries, the castle itself changed. The medieval origins gave way to a stately 17th-century castle, which later acquired its elegant whitewashed classical facades and baroque stepped gable. The two octagonal watchtowers at the entrance still seem to keep watch over this ancient domain. But the history of Ter Borcht does not end in the past. After centuries as a noble residence, the castle received a surprising new chapter. Between 2016 and 2022, it was thoroughly restored and brought back to life. Today, the historic rooms are no longer silent witnesses, but form the backdrop for exhibitions, weddings, tourist information, and culinary experiences. Outside the castle walls, too, much has changed. The old moat and castle mound are reminiscent of the medieval past, while the surrounding domain today offers space for walkers, athletes, and recreational users. From medieval lordship to contemporary meeting place: Ter Borcht has never left its past behind, but has given it a new purpose.

Bistro ’t Kapelhuis – a cozy break along the way Fancy a cozy stop during your hike or bike ride? At ’t Kapelhuis, you’ll receive a warm welcome in a relaxed, family atmosphere. Locals, hikers, cyclists, and passers-by alike love to stop here. Even your loyal four-legged friend is welcome! The location makes it truly special: the bistro is located right next to the historic Chapel of Our Lady of Perpetual Help. It’s the ideal place to put your feet up and take in the surroundings at a leisurely pace. For those with a sweet tooth, this is highly recommended. Bistro ’t Kapelhuis is known as a great spot for coffee, tea, and an extensive afternoon snack. Add a fresh pancake or a delicious dessert, and your hiking break can hardly be better. In good weather, simply move to the cozy terrace. While you enjoy a local beer, coffee, or cocktail, the children can have fun at the playground across the street. Are you walking or cycling past here? Feel free to make a stop. Sit down, enjoy something tasty, and let the walk be what it is for a while. Sometimes the best discovery is simply a place where you want to linger a little longer.

Cozy resting place during our bike tour

Through the fields, unpaved and nice to walk

Very nice walking and cycling path

In the garden of the castle of Ingelmunster stand two human figures built from rough stone blocks. It is a work by the British artist Lynn Chadwick (1914-2003). I don't know the title, but I'm guessing "Two Watchers", as Chadwick made a series of similar (especially bronze) works which he always gave this title. Artist's website: https://lynnchadwick.org/

Today, parts of the castle are rented out as a venue for corporate events, seminars, parties, and more. Extensive work has been carried out for this purpose over the past quarter century. Mr. Marc Van Honsebrouck, who died last year at the age of 89, had lived in the castle with his family since 1986, and had already commissioned renovations around the turn of the century. But disaster struck shortly afterward. On September 20, 2001, at 1:45 a.m., a fire broke out. Fortunately, Mr. Marc and his family managed to escape, but the entire left wing, both the ground floor and the upper floor, was completely destroyed. Although the fire department arrived very quickly, many priceless works of art were lost in the fire. The building itself suffered greatly, but the skill of the firefighters managed to stop the all-consuming flames. The grief over this terrible event was palpable far beyond the castle grounds. In 2012, Mr. Marc Van Honsebrouk decided to take over the castle's entire care and bought out his brother, who had been co-owner until then. His plan was to breathe new life into the castle, which had only been made wind- and watertight after the fire. The result of the past few years is the magnificent halls that shine again. Sources: https://kasteelvaningelmunster.be/ https://www.nieuwsblad.be/cnt/dmf20230824_96366895

The origin of the name "Ingelmunster" most likely lies in the history of this castle. The castle was built on the ruins of a seventh-century monastery. In 740, the monastery was reportedly inhabited by English monks, who gave it their name: Anglo Monaterum, Engelmunster, or Ingelmunster, meaning "Monastery of the Angels." In 855, the monastery fell prey to the Normans, the feared rulers of the sea. They plundered and burned the monastery. Little more than a ruin remained of the "Monastery of the Angels." The first Flemish ruler to establish a political presence in West Flanders was Robert I the Frisian, the tenth Count of Flanders. His reign lasted from 1071 to 1093, and he had the fortified castle built on the site of the ruins. Ingelmunster's location, on the doorstep of West Flanders and along the waterway that crossed the military route between Kortrijk and Bruges, was of such strategic importance that it was called the "Key to Flanders." Ingelmunster Castle, which at that time was still a veritable "lock," offered the key to unlocking a tactical advantage. Source: https://kasteelvaningelmunster.be/historiek-kasteel/