Diest: A cool and peaceful summer walk

A pleasant 14 km summer walk starting and ending at Diest railway station

With the weather forecast predicting temperatures up to 29 degrees, I thought I would choose a summer walk under the trees for my Saturday morning hike, for a bit of coolness. I was glad I did. Even when I set off at nine o’clock the sun was beating down, and by ten o’clock it was already scorching in the open sun.

The walk I chose was this 14 km walk through the forests to the north of Diest. Starting point is the Diest railway station: simply leave the station and cross over the footbridge to the left of Wim’s Clubs sandwich bar:

Following the route in the map above (which you can also download as a PDF here), you will soon leave civilization behind with the promise of the forests ahead of you.

I was certainly grateful of their shelter from the sun, and the small river the Zwart Water passing through the fields added to the tranquility of the place.

Halfway around is the Kiewithoeve, a conveniently placed brasserie where I was looking forward to slake my thirst.

Unfortunately it doesn’t open until noon and I was there an hour too early, but if you are doing the walk in the afternoon it would be a great spot to rest for a while.

I also passed an interesting bio-farm, the Bolhuishoeve.

They sell an interesting range of biofoods, and according to their website you can treat your children to donkey rides around the farm. You can even stay in a caravan for a farm holiday. Unfortunately however, despite wandering around, the place seemed to be deserted. Maybe they were all out in the fields.

However, despite the disappointments of a closed brasserie and a deserted farm, this is a really lovely summer walk. The footpaths are well maintained, the village lanes are virtually car-free, and the overall area is so peaceful. And as I mentioned, much of it is in the shade.

A 14 km summer walk is quite a lot to do in one morning or afternoon, but you can make a day of it and stop over in the Kiewithoeve for lunch. Alternatively, there are numerous short cuts you can take to reduce the distance. You can easily see these on the map.