Between Fields and the Bankbeek
Gullegem
A quiet loop through the fields and Bankbeek valley around Gullegem, with stops at De Natuurhoeve and the Bib in het Groen library.
The walk
This 6.4-kilometre circular walk starts at Kwadries in Gullegem. It takes you between fields and meadows, along quiet country roads and onto occasional unpaved paths.
The Bankbeek valley is the greenest part of the route. Along the way, you also pass De Natuurhoeve, an outdoor bookcase and Gullegem’s water tower.
Route map
Through the countryside around Gullegem
From Kwadries, you soon reach the countryside. Fields, meadows and small paths alternate as you walk. Although you remain close to the village, it is easy to leave the bustle behind.
There are a few benches along the route. Sometimes, a curious goat comes over to the fence. Little encounters like these make the walk more enjoyable for me.
De Natuurhoeve
On Hoge Voetweg, the route passes De Natuurhoeve. This dairy farm uses some of the milk from its own cows to make yoghurt, butter, buttermilk, quark and ice cream.
Alongside the farm shop, a vending machine stocks products from the farm and other local producers. I stop here occasionally during a walk, mainly for the ice cream.
It is primarily a place to buy something to enjoy along the way or take home. It is not a café or restaurant where you would settle in for a longer break.
The Bankbeek valley
The landscape changes around the Bankbeek. The open fields give way to a low-lying valley with wet meadows, ponds and old pollarded willows.
The municipality recognises the valley as an important corridor connecting water and green spaces. Its wet grassland, ponds and willows contribute to its ecological value.
I like to slow down here. The stream, trees and quiet surroundings make this one of my favourite parts of the walk.
A little library in the countryside
On Torrestraat, a sign points you towards “Bib in het Groen”. Inside, the shelves are packed with books, from novels and children’s stories to travel guides and reference books.
It is an unexpected find on this countryside route. If the library is open, take a little time to browse and leaf through a book. The bench outside offers a place to carry on reading or simply take a short break before continuing your walk.
Gullegem’s water tower
Another landmark along the route is the water tower on Kwadestraat. Built in 1958, it is included in the architectural heritage inventory.
The final stretch takes you back through the fields towards Kwadries, where the 6.4-kilometre loop ends.
Photos from this walk
Jay’s tips
Try this walk on a cold, clear morning. I find the landscape at its best when frost turns the fields white. That was also what prompted me to bring my camera.
Good to know
Muddy after rain
Sturdy footwear recommended
Little shade
Picnic area or benches
Playground
Viewpoint
Field paths and grassy sections can become muddy after rain. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. There is little shade on the open stretches, and a few benches provide places to stop along the way.
My experience
The Bankbeek valley is one of my favourite parts of this walk. The ponds and old pollarded willows give it a different character from the open fields. I particularly enjoy walking here on a quiet morning.
The stops along the way also add to the walk. De Natuurhoeve is a lovely local stop, especially for the ice cream, and Bib in het Groen is an unexpected discovery. I enjoy that mix of quiet country paths and small places that make you want to pause and look around.
Waymarking
Not waymarked
Places of interest
De Natuurhoeve
Along the route
Local dairy farm with a farm shop, vending machine and homemade ice cream.
Hoge Voetweg 17, 8560 Gullegem, Belgium ↗
Website →
Bankbeekvallei
Along the route
Low-lying stream valley with damp meadows, ponds and old pollarded willows.
Bib in 't groen
Along the route
Small free book exchange beside the rural route.
Watertoren Gullegem
Along the route
1958 water tower and listed architectural heritage of Gullegem.
Ready to set off?
Open the starting point in your GPS and enjoy the walk.
