8.1 km; Walking from Time-Out Genoelselderen along the most beautiful vineyards.

We begin our adventurous journey at the street corner, via Kasteelstraat. Just a few steps further we turn left, and voilà, on our right side stands the majestic Wine Castle of Genoelselderen. Behind the gate, the first delightful vineyard reveals itself:
"Within the Wall".
This is the first vineyard, planted at the end of February 1991, a quarter hectare in size with 1315 Chardonnay vines. Here, out of more than 100 different clones of the Chardonnay grape, two clones have been chosen that best fit this northern climate, on this chalk-rich soil with marl subsoil, which in this combination produces a complex wine with a rich bouquet and sufficient structure.

With cheerful steps, we continue our way upwards, onto Sint-Maartenstraat. At the Y, we turn right into the picturesque Holstraat. At the top of this hill, we take the first exit to the right, and there, on our right side, the beautiful vineyards stretch out. Like a picturesque scene, the impressive castle also emerges.
Vineyard: “Kiezelingenbos”
The vineyard was completely planted with Chardonnay in 1993 and expanded in 2009 and 2010 with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. This is the largest vineyard in Belgium, and currently, grapes are coming from here used to make the splendid Black, Silver, and Rosé Pearl.

We walk further along the rural path (paved), while in the distance the highway and a few elegant windmills are silhouetted. At the next field path, we turn right and leave the majestic windmill to our left. What a colossal structure!

At the next intersection, we turn right, veering down the unpaved road. At the Y-split, we choose left and then again left, where the Membruggen Brickworks is located. Here we see piles of clay ready to be shaped into bricks.

We continue straight ahead at the intersection, leaving the brickworks behind us, and then turn right at the next intersection, into the village. Then, we take a left into Dorpstraat, only to immediately turn right into Wijnstraat.

Via Demerstraat, we go left and then right into Koekoestraat, heading towards the expansive fields. At the Y-split, we keep to the right and immediately take the narrow footpath on the right.

We cross the paved field path diagonally to the right and follow the cycling sign 86 into Zavelstraat. On our left side, a beautiful fruit plantation unfolds with juicy Conference pears. We follow this road until we reach Vogelzangstraat, where we pass the next vineyard on the left:

“Vineyard Vogelsanck”.
The exceptional microclimate on this slope immediately inspired us to establish a vineyard. First planting in 1993 and in 1999 expansion on both sides with Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.

We continue our way up the paved field path, turn right at the intersection, and then again right into the next street. Alongside the impressive water tower on our left side, we walk into the forest. In the vast wood, we get an enchanting view of the next vineyard:

“Vineyard Field”.
This vineyard of nearly six hectares was planted in an area where vineyards used to be. This is where viticulture in the region has endured the longest, up to the time of Napoleon. In the cadastral register established by Napoleon, this parcel is recorded as 'vineyard field'.

We continue our journey toward the Wine Castle, enjoying the breathtaking panorama. Once down on Kasteelstraat, we turn left towards Time-Out. And as the castle opens its gates, it invites you for a well-deserved drink. (also in walking shoes) An absolute must-try!
Sissi's choice is always the black pearl! Enjoy!