Koppenbergbos: mythical cobbles, silent forests, and flower carpets

Start and arrival: parking spaces near bistro Den Os
Oude Steenweg 10, 9681 Nukerke, Belgium

Put on your hiking shoes and let yourself be swept away by a varied journey through the heart of the Flemish Ardennes.
The Koppenberg Forest Walk combines the tranquility of stately forests and wide views with a touch of cycling history.
A route that enchants every season, but becomes truly magical in spring when a purple-blue blanket of wild forest hyacinths and wood anemones transforms the forest floor.

PART 1: From Bistro Den Os to the charming Melden
The adventure begins at Bistro Den Os, where the panoramic view over the rolling surroundings immediately sets the right tone.
We leave the starting point behind and soon dive into the first part of the 80-hectare forest complex: Koppenberg Forest-South.

Via winding paths, we walk northwards towards the Koppenbergstraat. We cross over to the wide gravel road of the Maria van der Gheynststraat, which takes us past green meadows to the Koppenberg Forest-North. Just near junction 32 awaits an idyllic rest spot: a peaceful, green oasis with a picnic table and information boards that tell about the history of World War I.

After this secluded forest feeling, we step into the openness. A beautiful contrast! A charming detour over dirt roads between vast fields brings us to a third forest passage. At the end of this woodland path lies a hidden gem: the Cave of Our Lady of Lourdes, where only the soothing sound of a bubbling spring breaks the silence.

From the cave, we set course for the characterful village of Melden. Via the quiet walking path 'Hamweg', we reach the center, the perfect place for a well-deserved break.

Stopover in Melden:
Join the cozy, contemporary Bar Blyss or choose the authentic charm of Bistro Koppenberg.

Bistro Koppenberg on Facebook

Bar Blyss on Facebook

PART 2: Through the brook valley and over the legendary cobblestones
With recharged batteries, we leave Melden via the 'Bettenslos' — a series of hidden, unpaved paths between the buildings. We cross the picturesque Beiaardbeek and follow its winding course along car-free roads and the quiet Schaatsputtestraat.

After crossing the Stoutestraat, we prepare for the absolute highlight of the journey. We enter the infamous Steengatstraat: the legendary Koppenberg.
With a gradient of up to 22% and a narrow, deeply worn cobblestone road, this is where cycling history is written every spring. On foot, you truly feel how impressively steep this mythical 'hill' is.

At the top, the cobblestone road gives way to the asphalt of the Koppenbergstraat. Here, we turn right for one last atmospheric passage through the southern part of the forest.

A tasty finale:
The forest path leads us straight back to our starting point: Bistro Den Os. Time to stretch your legs on the terrace or sit inside! Whether you fancy a delicious pancake or waffle for a snack, a hearty Flemish classic, or a surprisingly worldly dish: here you can enjoy afterwards with an priceless view of the Flemish Ardennes.

Bistro Den Os on Facebook 

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I have mapped out this route with great care and love for the region. You would make me very happy by leaving a comment and a rating (stars) after your walk!
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