Vinderhoutse forest: forests, fields, De Campagne and terraces in the village center

Starting point: Parking near Beekstraat 46, 9031 Drongen.

With your feet in nature and a view of vast landscapes, this route in Drongen and Vinderhoute offers a perfect mix of tranquility, heritage, and relaxation.

Part 1: Through forest and fields to Estate De Campagne
The walk starts at the edge of the Vinderhoutse Bossen. After a brief introduction to the forest, the path quickly bends westward. Narrow walking paths meander between open fields and orchards, where the wind has free play. After crossing the Bosstraat, you continue along car-free paths and a short paved section in Heiebreesstraat. Halfway, you turn left onto an unpaved path that leads directly to the historic Estate De Campagne.

The path first takes you through the atmospheric park, alongside the quiet pond and ditch that surround the neo-Gothic 19th-century castle. At the castle lies the lively school farm and petting zoo. Here, sheep, goats, rabbits, guinea pigs, ducks, and peacocks await a greeting. While the children enjoy themselves in the adjacent playground, you can relax on the terrace of the small cafeteria for a first break. Note that the cafeteria is not open during the weekend.
Check opening hours at: Schoolhoeve De Campagne

Part 2: Towards Vinderhoute village in search of a cozy stop
From the farm, you walk north along car-free paths back to the forest area. A short route through the greenery takes you to the Gavergracht. To the left, discreetly hidden behind the greenery, lies the private estate of Castle Schouwbroek. You continue the route to the right along the edge of the forest, with a view of the fields on the left.

Cross the Gavergracht via a wooden bridge and turn left onto the picturesque dirt road Langendam. At the end of this road, Schouwbroekstraat leads you to the heart of Vinderhoute, where three diverse spots invite you for a well-deserved break:

Den Witte Uil: An authentic brown café for a characterful regional beer.

De Verwennerij: An artisanal ice cream parlor for a sweet stop.

't Wegeltje: A cozy garden café for those who prefer to enjoy in the greenery.

Part 3: Back through the Vinderhoutse Bossen
After enjoying a snack, you dive back into Schouwbroekstraat via the narrow path just before garden café ’t Wegeltje. A little further along, the dirt road Langendam brings you back to the shelter of the Vinderhoutse Bossen. Along quiet, well-maintained forest paths and beside a reflective forest pond, you leisurely walk back to the endpoint at Beekstraat.