Discover Kortemark: A Hidden Gem in Belgium

Welcome to Kortemark, a charming town in West Flanders, known for its beautiful natural landscapes, historic sites, and warm hospitality. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled vacation, Kortemark has something to offer for everyone. Here is a guide to some of the top tourist attractions in the area.

Natural Wonders

Kortemark is blessed with some of the most picturesque natural landscapes in Belgium. From serene forests to beautiful parks, here are some of the top natural wonders to explore.

• Groenhove bos: Located in Torhout, this peaceful forest is perfect for a leisurely hike or bike ride.
• Domein Krekemeersen: This park is a great spot for picnics, with plenty of open space and beautiful views.
• Wijnendalebos: This forest is popular among hikers and bird-watchers, with well-marked trails and stunning scenery. URL
• Handzamevallei: A nature preserve that offers a chance to observe rare bird species and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
• ZarrenBeek: A peaceful hiking area in Molenstraat that is perfect for a quiet stroll or a picnic in nature.
• Praetbos: A tranquil forest that is perfect for a morning walk or afternoon jog.
• Vijfwegenpoel natuurpunt: A beautiful pond in Kampstraat that is home to a variety of plants and animals.

Historic Sites

Kortemark has a rich history that is reflected in its many historic sites and landmarks. Here are some of the top places to explore if you are interested in learning more about the town's past.

• Castle Ravenhof: This beautiful castle is a stunning example of traditional Flemish architecture and is surrounded by lush gardens.
• Werkenplein: A memorial park that commemorates the brave soldiers who fought in World War I.
• Yser Tower: This 84-meter-tall WWI memorial tower and museum offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and houses exhibits about the Belgian-German front. URL
• In Flanders Fields Museum: This museum charts the horrors of WWI in the region, with educational visits and research opportunities. URL
• Memorial Museum Passchendaele 1917: This military museum with recreated trenches offers a vivid insight into the realities of trench warfare during WWI. URL
• Hooge Crater Museum: This museum houses a collection of World War I uniforms, artillery, and artifacts, plus life-size trenches. URL

Fun for Kids

If you are traveling with kids, Kortemark has plenty of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained. Here are some of the top attractions that kids will love.

• Big Bench - Hooglede: A great spot for a family photo opportunity, with a giant bench that offers a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.
• ZarrenBos: A wildlife park that is home to a variety of animals, including deer, rabbits, and ducks.
• 't Land van Vlierbos - Kinderboerderij en pluktuin: A children's farm and pick-your-own garden that offers a fun and educational day out for all ages. URL
• Bellewaerde: Belgium's oldest theme park, with roller coasters, gardens, and a 4D cinema, open April-October each year. URL
• Speelbos Edewalle: A fun park with play equipment, swings, and slides, perfect for kids of all ages.

Gardens and Parks

Kortemark is home to some of the most beautiful gardens and parks in the region, with stunning floral displays and manicured lawns. Here are some of the top gardens and parks to explore.

• JB Tuinen: A stunning garden that offers a feast for the senses, with colorful flowers and fragrant herbs.
• De Oude Pastorie: A beautiful garden that surrounds an old parsonage, with lovely rose bushes and manicured hedges.
• Tuinontwerp & realisatie Tuinarchitectuur: A stunning garden that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. URL
• Viconia Kleiputten: A unique park that was once a landfill but has been transformed into a beautiful green space. URL
• Stadspark: A charming city park in Torhout that offers a peaceful spot for a picnic or a leisurely stroll.
• Provincial Domain Palingbeek: A beautiful park that is perfect for a family day out, with plenty of open space, walking trails, and a playground. URL

Other Attractions

Kortemark has plenty of other attractions to offer, from unique shopping experiences to adrenaline-pumping adventures. Here are some of the top attractions to add to your itinerary.

• sos Reptiel: A reptile rescue and sanctuary that offers a unique opportunity to learn about these fascinating creatures up close. URL
• Kersthuisje Roeselare: A charming Christmas house in Mandellaan that is a must-visit during the festive season.
• Kop Van De Vaart: A popular spot for adrenaline junkies, with plenty of opportunities for kayaking, boating, and other watersports.
• wimpy Jump: A great party equipment rental service in Amersveldestraat that offers everything you need for a fun and memorable celebration. URL
• MUZE'UM L: A unique museum in Bergstraat that explores the interplay between light and landscape, with fascinating exhibits and interactive displays. URL
• Verbroedering kerstmis 1914: A historic site in Hemmestraat that commemorates the Christmas truce of 1914, when soldiers on both sides of the trenches laid down their weapons and celebrated together. URL
• Huwynsbossen: An enchanting forest in Lichtervelde that is perfect for a peaceful stroll or a romantic picnic.
• Plant-Support: A lovely garden in Groenestraat that offers a wide range of plants and gardening supplies.

Conclusion

Kortemark is a hidden gem in Belgium, with plenty of attractions to appeal to visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you are looking for a peaceful retreat in nature or an adventure-packed vacation, Kortemark has something to offer for everyone. So why not plan your next trip to Kortemark and discover the beauty of this charming town for yourself?