Attractions and Places To See around Sint-Lievens-Houtem - Top 20

Sint-Lievens-Houtem offers a rich variety of natural landscapes. You can visit Kalkense Meersen, an extensive nature reserve with vast fields and diverse birdlife, serving as a flood buffer along the Schelde river. Another unique experience is the Boardwalk Trail, which takes you through the Serskampse Beek valley with its varied forests, fields, and grasslands. The Smoorbeekvallei is considered a hidden gem with its forests and open fields, while Cotthembos is an unspoiled natural area where you might spot various wildlife.

Yes, the region is rich in history and culture. The Zwalmmolen Watermill, first documented in 1227, is a significant man-made monument that harnessed the power of the Zwalmbeek. You can also explore the Livinus Chapel, dating back to 1640, built on the legendary spot where Saint Livinus is believed to have arrived. The Saint Michael's Church houses a tomb monument of Saint Livinus from 1465. Don't miss the Houtem Jaarmarkt, an annual winter fair recognized on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Sint-Lievens-Houtem is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking routes, such as the moderate Cotthem Valley Nature Trail or the Saint Livinus Chapel loop. For cyclists, there are routes like the Cotthem Grotto – Cotthem Descent loop. Runners can enjoy trails like the Cotthem Descent – Cotthem Grotto loop. Explore more options on the dedicated guides for hiking, cycling, and running around Sint-Lievens-Houtem.

Absolutely! Several attractions are suitable for families. The Kalkense Meersen nature reserve offers extensive fields and birdlife, perfect for leisurely walks or cycling. The Boardwalk Trail provides a unique and engaging experience for all ages through the Serskampse Beek valley. The historic Zwalmmolen Watermill is also a fascinating site for families to learn about local history.

The region boasts over 110 kilometers of 'slow roads' and various trails. Popular options include the Cotthem Valley Nature Trail, a moderate 11 km route, and the Cotthem Milestone – Cotthembos loop, which is about 8.5 km. You can also explore the Saint Livinus Chapel – Cotthem Milestone loop, covering approximately 12.7 km. These trails offer diverse landscapes, from forest edges to historic Roman roads. Find more details on the Hiking around Sint-Lievens-Houtem guide.

The Houtem Jaarmarkt is a significant annual winter fair and livestock market held in November. It is a deeply rooted cultural event in Sint-Lievens-Houtem and is recognized on the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Market Square (Marktplein), the second-largest market square in Flanders, serves as the vibrant heart for this and other events.

Yes, there are several scenic spots. From the Scheldt dike in Kalkense Meersen, you have a beautiful view over the expansive landscape. The Zwalm Valley Trail also offers picturesque views along the Zwalmbeek. The Smoorbeekvallei, with its varied landscapes of forests and open fields, provides many opportunities for scenic enjoyment.

For cyclists looking for a challenge, the Berendries Climb is a notable highlight. This climb, included in the Tour of Flanders, features a smooth asphalt surface with an average grade of 6.6% and a maximum of 11% over 0.9 km. It's known as a 'devilish' climb by many cyclists. You can find more cycling routes, including challenging ones, in the Cycling around Sint-Lievens-Houtem guide.

The Kalkense Meersen is an extensive nature reserve characterized by the mighty Schelde river and vast fields that act as a buffer against floods. It's an excellent area for cycling and walking, known for its diverse birdlife and the presence of Galloway cattle that assist in nature management. Visitors often describe it as a place of profound peace and natural beauty.

Sint-Lievens-Houtem can be enjoyed throughout the year, depending on your interests. The natural areas like Kalkense Meersen and Smoorbeekvallei are beautiful in spring and summer for walking and cycling. If you're interested in cultural events, the Houtem Jaarmarkt takes place annually in November. The extensive walking routes are accessible in most seasons, offering different charms with changing foliage.

Beyond the well-known spots, the Smoorbeekvallei is often considered a hidden gem, offering varied landscapes including forests and willow-lined areas. The Vlonderpad, a distinctive boardwalk through the Serskampse Beek valley, provides a unique way to experience the local natural environment. The Cotthembos is another unspoiled area where you might encounter diverse wildlife.

Many of the natural areas and walking routes around Sint-Lievens-Houtem are dog-friendly, making them perfect for exploring with your canine companion. Areas like the Kalkense Meersen and the various walking routes along forest edges and Roman roads are generally welcoming to dogs, provided they are kept on a leash and you clean up after them. Always check local signage for specific rules in nature reserves.