From Geldzak to Poperinge

Poperinge, a city in the West Flemish Heuvelland, is located in the province of West Flanders. The highest hills in the rolling area are the Kemmelberg (156m), the Zwarteberg (152m) and the Katsberg (150m). This was followed by the Baneberg, Vidaigneberg, Scherpenberg and the Rodelberg. So prepare yourself for a serious workout for the calf muscles. Although all hills differ in height, what they all have in common is that they are witness hills. They prove what the landscape used to look like. A lot of hops are grown in the Poperinge area, which gives the area a unique appearance. The Stadsscale National Hop Museum illustrates the history of hop cultivation in Poperinge from the thirteenth century. In an exhibition spread over four floors, everything related to hops is discussed. In West-Vleteringen you can visit the Sint Sixtus Abbey. This property is owned by the Cistercians of the Strict Observance, also known as the Trappists. The three hallmarks of the Trappist life are a life devoted to prayers, reading and manual labor. Of course, the order also has a reputation in the field of beer brewing, so stop by the abbey for a nice fresh Trappist!