Cycling along the meandering Dender

Scheldeland is home to the magnificent meandering Dender. A charming river with banks strewn with waving grasses and impeccable cycling paths. The Ninove Cycling route guides you through the Dender valley along one of the country's most beautiful rivers. There is also plenty more to discover along the way. 

It's well worth jumping on your bike and exploring the area, to discover the beautiful landscapes and delicious beer. Be sure to enjoy this cycling route ad fundum – you won't regret it. Ready for a ride along the Dender? Let’s go!

A ride full of treats

The tour begins and ends in Ninove. The route in between travels 41 kilometres past some surprising spots, tasty eateries and popular cafés. The tour winds through the green veins of the Dender Valley and stops in characteristic towns and villages, such as Haaltert, Aalst and Denderleeuw. The Dender twists and turns through the landscape in the background, as you whizz along the well-maintained cycle paths.

There are many things that should certainly not be missed on this tour. Keep your route map handy, so that you can take in every detail of this cycling route. After all, you don't want to miss visiting the world's best beer restaurant, do you?

Haaltert, here we come!

As we mentioned, you start in Ninove – and there's lots to see there, but more about that in a moment. You starting by heading towards Haaltert, along quiet paths and relaxing landscapes. Do you see that pretty village looming in the distance?

Now that you're here, perhaps you can take a break at the pleasant Warande Park. History lovers will enjoy a visit to the mini Mussenzele museum. But even if you prefer to do nothing, it's still impossible to resist the charms of this picturesque hamlet.

Aalst and its idiosyncrasies

(C)hop, (c)hop, off you go to Aalst! In this region the hop ranks do better than anywhere. No wonder then it's also home to some fabulous beer. The town is also world famous for its crazy carnival, that makes a mockery of anything and everything. However, there is more to Aalst than carnival alone. Did you know that the belfry tower on the Grote Markt is on the list of UNESCO world heritage? The Old Aldermen's house, which together with the district house and Belfry forms one building, is also a architectural and historical gem.

In St Martin's Church you can see a real Rubens. His painting “The Plague Victims” has a prominent place in the nave. Walk on a little further and you can wander through the town's history in the ’t Gasthuys Municipal Museum. Hear all the juicy tales of Aalst's inhabitants.

Just keep pushing those pedals

Relaxed and seen everything you fancy? Then off we go again! Before reaching Ninove, you cycle side by side with the river Dender. This region was once an economic engine, filled with old industries. Today, it is an example of peace and nature, where walkers and cyclists are welcome.

Talking of nature: Wellemeersen and Kapellemeersen, which you will find between Denderleeuw and Erembodegem, are a real highlight. You can discover the entire area on foot – here and there a boardwalk prevents you from disappearing into the muddy marshland.

The best beer restaurant in the world

Wait a moment, didn't we just promise you the world's best beer restaurant? That's right! You'll find it in Denderleeuw. The Heeren van Liedekercke has an incredible beer cellar. And therefore also an incredible beer selection. Don't hesitate to ask advice on which beer goes best with your food. You won't regret it!

Ninove, in all modesty

And now: it's off to Ninove! This gem along the Dender has a rich history and is described in old records as “The oldest, boldest and wisest of cities". Those were not the words of those actually living in Ninove, but from the legendary historian Sanderus. Visit the Church of Our Lady of the Ascension – and take a look and the wonky tower! This Baroque church and former abbey church is among the most beautiful of its kind. Or pay a visit to the shop at Slaghmuylder brewery, as the makers of the legendary Witkap-Pater beer.

Would you like an off-the-shelf overview of everything there is to do here? Then pop into the tourist office. You will find it at the magnificently restored Hospital Chapel. Even for that it's worth the visit.