Discover the Blossoms of Belgium | Haspengouw
During the month of April, the best place to visit in Belgium is the Haspengouw region. This area is known as the fruit region of Belgium. Due to its rolling landscape it is the perfect place to harvest fruit. But there is more to this region as well. With a rich history and a lot of beautiful hidden gems it is the perfect place to visit during spring.
Blossom Season
If you want to visit Haspengouw during its most magical season of the year you need to visit during the month of April. This is when the cherry, pear and apple trees are in Blossom. The blossom season can start a bit earlier in late March and run through the beginning of May but the best chances of seeing these trees blossom is in April. If you want to check whether or not it is a good time to visit check out this Blossom Indicator (available as of end of March).
Where to stay?
The 2 largest cities in Haspengouw are Sint-Truiden and Tongeren. I would highly suggest that you start your trip in either one of these cities. However, the best spots are hidden in nature so either jump in a car, get your hiking boots on or rent a bike and discover the region by bicycle.
If you want to make this trip into a little weekend getaway I highly suggest checking out some of the unique accommodations in the region or get a Holiday Home or Bed&Breakfast tucked away in nature.
My recommendations:
De Pluktuin in Kortessem
Wine Barrel in Helshoven
Tree tents in Borgloon
How to Get Around?
There are a lot of different options to explore Haspengouw. Depending on what you prefer you can hike around the region, rent a bike or even get a scooter to spot the cherry, apple and pear trees. Here are a few of the different routes & options that you can do depending on your interests:
Hiking | 7.1KM route
Biking | 38KM route | Rent an e-bike
Scooter | 87KM route | Vespa Tourist
Book a Local Tour
If you want to know more about the harvest and local produce you can book a tour with one of the local farmers. There are plenty of different options along your route and most are open for visitors during the month of April.
! Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic there are less options available during the 2020+2021 season. Make sure to check with local businesses prior to going if they offer a current tour.
Gezond van Bij Ons is currently offering private group tours (35 euro/ group) of their local business. If you want to take some deliciousness home, make sure to check out their little shop as well.
Hidden Gems of the Region
Now I know that looking at the blossoms can get a little bit repetitive after a morning of exploring. But don't be feared, there is a lot more to do in this region than watching the trees blossom. Some of my favorite local spots are:
Reading Between the Lines in Borgloon
Floating Chapel of Helsheaven
Castle in Nieuwenhoven
Blossoms at Guvelingen Church in Sint Truiden
