Oudenaarde Travel Guide

Discover Oudenaarde with this comprehensive travel guide, featuring top attractions, food and drink scene, best places to stay, and more.


A Complete Travel Guide to Oudenaarde

Welcome to Oudenaarde, a charming town located in East Flanders, in Flanders, Belgium. Situated in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes and near the Scheldt river, Oudenaarde is famous for its rich architectural heritage, scenic countryside, and a vibrant cultural scene. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top attractions, best food and drink places, ideal places to stay, and everything you need to know to plan your trip to Oudenaarde.

List of Places to Visit in Oudenaarde

Here are some of the top attractions in Oudenaarde:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Oudenaarde Town Hall: Built-in the 16th century, the Oudenaarde Town Hall is a stunning building that reflects the Flemish Renaissance architectural style. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the murals, sculptures, and other artwork decorating the building.
  • Museum of Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes: A must-visit attraction for history lovers, the Museum of Oudenaarde showcases the town’s rich cultural and economic past. The museum exhibits collections on archeology, art, textiles, and more.
  • Saint-Walburga’s Church: A gothic-style church dating back to the 12th century, Saint-Walburga’s church boasts beautiful stained glass windows and intricate architecture.

Natural Attractions of Oudenaarde: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Muziekbos: A serene forest that offers hiking and cycling trails, Muziekbos is an ideal spot for nature lovers. The Boskant nature reserve is also located nearby.
  • Donkmeer: Spanning over 90 hectares, Donkmeer lake is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and walking. Visitors can also take a guided boat tour to explore the lake and its surroundings.
  • Koppenberg: One of the toughest climbs in the Tour of Flanders, Koppenberg is a scenic hill that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oudenaarde

With its picturesque countryside and stunning views, Oudenaarde is a popular destination for hiking and cycling enthusiasts. Here are some of the top hiking/biking routes in the area:

  • The Tour of Flanders Center: The Tour of Flanders is one of the most iconic cycling races in the world. The Tour of Flanders Center has a museum and cycling routes that follow the race’s path.
  • Flemish Ardennes Route: This scenic route takes you through quaint Flemish villages and the hilly countryside. The iconic climbs of the Tour of Flanders, such as the Oude Kwaremont and the Koppenberg, are also on this route.
  • Bosberg Route: A perfect route for those seeking a challenging hike or ride, this trail takes you through hills and forests, including the infamous Bosberg climb.

Best Things to Do in Oudenaarde: Activities and Tours

Apart from the attractions, Oudenaarde also offers numerous activities and tours to explore the town’s culture, heritage, and scenic beauty. Here are a few of the best things to do in Oudenaarde:

  • Beer Tasting Tour: Belgium is famous for its beer, and Oudenaarde is no exception. Take a beer tasting tour to sample some of the town’s best brews and learn about the local brewing culture.
  • Chocolate Making Workshop: Discover the art of chocolate-making at a workshop that guides you through the process of making your own chocolates.
  • Guided Walking Tour: Take a guided walking tour to explore the town’s historical landmarks and hidden gems.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oudenaarde

Here’s an ideal itinerary for your week-long trip to Oudenaarde:

Day Activity
Day 1 Guided Walking Tour, Visit Oudenaarde Town Hall, and Saint-Walburga’s Church
Day 2 Cycling Tour of the Flemish Ardennes
Day 3 Visit Museum of Oudenaarde and the Flemish Ardennes
Day 4 Hiking in Muziekbos and Boskant Nature Reserve
Day 5 Beer Tasting Tour and Visit Donkmeer
Day 6 Chocolate Making Workshop and Visit Koppenberg
Day 7 Free Day or Guided Tour to Nearby Destinations

Food and Drink Scene of Oudenaarde

Belgian cuisine is renowned for its chocolates, beer, waffles, and fries. Oudenaarde’s food scene offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes that cater to all palates. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages in Oudenaarde:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carbonnade Flamande: A hearty stew made with beef and onions, cooked in beer. Served with mashed potatoes.
  • Waterzooi: A creamy soup made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and cream. Served with bread or potatoes.
  • Waffles: Crispy and fluffy waffles served with toppings like whipped cream, chocolate, and fresh fruit.

Local Beverages

  • Belgian Beer: Belgium is famous for its beer, and Oudenaarde has a long history of brewing. Try the local brews like Liefmans, Roman, and Cnudde.
  • Jenever: A traditional Flemish liquor made with juniper berries and other herbs. It’s often served as a digestif after a meal.

Where to Stay in Oudenaarde: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Oudenaarde offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious stay or a budget-friendly hostel, there are plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the best places to stay in Oudenaarde:

  • Hotel Leopold Oudenaarde: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of the town, just a few minutes’ walk from the town hall and museums.
  • Bed and Breakfast ‘t Materke: A charming guesthouse located in a renovated farmhouse, ‘t Materke offers comfortable rooms and a serene countryside setting.
  • Hostel De Passage: A budget-friendly hostel located in the town center, De Passage has clean and comfortable dorm rooms and private rooms.

What to Buy in Oudenaarde: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring back home, Oudenaarde has plenty to offer. Here are some of the best things to buy in Oudenaarde:

  • Belgian Chocolate: Buy some of the town’s best chocolates from local chocolatiers like Les Chocolats d’Ugo and Chocolaterie Bultynck.
  • Beer: Bring back some of the town’s best brews like Liefmans, Roman, and Cnudde.
  • Tapestry: Oudenaarde is famous for its tapestry production. Buy a beautiful tapestry souvenir from one of the local shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Oudenaarde

Belgium has a rich cultural heritage, and Oudenaarde is no exception. Here are a few customs and cultural norms you might encounter during your trip:

  • Language: Dutch is the official language, but you’ll also hear French and German spoken.
  • Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but rounding up the bill is common.
  • Dress Code: Dress appropriately when entering churches or other religious places, keeping shoulders and legs covered.

Best Time to Visit Oudenaarde

The best time to visit Oudenaarde is during the spring and summer months (April to September). The weather is mild, and the countryside is lush with greenery. Additionally, Oudenaarde hosts several cultural and sporting events during this period like the Ronde van Vlaanderen (Tour of Flanders) cycling race.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oudenaarde

Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to keep in mind during your Oudenaarde trip:

Do:

  • Try the local beer and chocolates.
  • Explore the countryside on a cycling or hiking tour.
  • Visit the local museums and historical landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Eat and drink in public places.
  • Smoke in public places, including bars and restaurants.
  • Forget to bring appropriate clothing for visiting churches or other religious places.

Safety and Health

Oudenaarde is a safe destination, but it’s always a good idea to take basic precautions while traveling. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:

Safety in Oudenaarde

  • Keep your valuables safe and secure.
  • Watch out for pickpockets in crowded places.
  • Follow the traffic rules and be careful when cycling on the roads.

Health in Oudenaarde

  • No vaccinations are required to visit Oudenaarde.
  • Tap water is safe to drink.
  • Carry insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites during the summer season.

Getting to Oudenaarde: Transportation Options and Logistics

Oudenaarde is easily accessible by various transportation modes. Here are some ways to reach Oudenaarde:

Airports Near Oudenaarde

  • Brussels Airport: The largest airport in Belgium, Brussels airport is located 90 km from Oudenaarde.
  • Lille Airport: Located in France, Lille airport is 60 km from Oudenaarde.

Bus Stations Near Oudenaarde

  • Oudenaarde Bus Station: Located in the town center, the Oudenaarde bus station has bus links to several destinations within Belgium and Europe.
  • Gent-Sint-Pieters Bus Station: A major transportation hub, Gent-Sint-Pieters has bus links to several destinations within Belgium and Europe.

Other Options

  • Train: Oudenaarde has a train station with connections to major Belgian cities like Brussels and Antwerp.
  • Car: You can rent a car from major rental agencies at Brussels airport or in Oudenaarde itself.

How to Get Around in Oudenaarde

Oudenaarde is a small town, and it’s easy to get around on foot or by bike. Alternatively, you can use public transport or taxi services to reach specific places.

Where to Go Next from Oudenaarde: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Oudenaarde is centrally located in Flanders, making it an ideal base to explore other Belgian and European destinations. Here are some nearby destinations and excursions you can explore:

  • Bruges: A picturesque medieval city known for its canals and architecture, Bruges is just 70 km from Oudenaarde.
  • Ghent: A vibrant university town with a rich history and culture, Ghent is just 20 km from Oudenaarde.
  • Brussels: The capital of Belgium and the European Union, Brussels is just 50 km from Oudenaarde.

Conclusion

Oudenaarde is a hidden gem in Belgium, offering a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. From hiking and cycling tours to beer tasting and chocolate workshops, there’s something for everyone in Oudenaarde. We hope this comprehensive Travel Guide to Oudenaarde helps you plan your trip and makes your visit to this charming town memorable.

Church of Our Lady of Pamele Church of Our Lady of Pamele