Bos t'Ename

Again I can describe my 'first' impressions and adjusting to the new life here but maybe it's better to safe that for later when the initial heavy emotions will cool off.

Even here in Belgium I want to hold onto writing about my search for beautiful (natural) places.
In California no real effort was needed for that since there are stunning places on every step you make. But what about here in crowded Europe?

Geography was always my favorite subject but I remember learning about the Benelux at the elementary was rather boring. Nothing spectacular considering the landscape or climate and even... not 'real' mountains!

When I first moved to Brussels from Amsterdam in 1998 I surprisingly found a nice combination of historical, cultural and even natural beauty.
But now after spending the last years exploring stunning California I will probably need to make more effort to (re)discover the Belgian natural places again.

If you want to make me really happy bring me to a forest!
Right, but this might be a little problem if you live in East Flanders.

I've been told, there is still some forest in The Flemish Ardennnes, only 15 minutes drive from our home.


I did some research and found a place proudly called The Ename Forest. If you ask me, there are rather stretches of woods (and...sorry, Maarten, there are no bears in there!) but the way the locals try to maintain and expand this natural preserve is impressive.

This wooded area is also interesting due to its long history. The educational information panels along the Mariette Tielemans trail explain the historical importance of many places.


Without these panels you will probably not realize that you are walking on a sunken road used already in Roman times and you will definitelly pass the Rabit Hill without noticing. Such man-made hills with artificial holes were used in the Middle Ages to raise rabbits.


From the windy hill you get a nice view of The Schelde Valley. Walking in such a rural setting truly refreshes your mind.
Nothing new, the outdoors is always good for MY soul!

Despite lack of 'real' forests this hilly region with its pictoresque villages and meadows with grazing cows is a perfect place to find peace and definetelly worth of further exploring.