Herne, Galmaarden and Vollezele

This route introduces you to Pajottenland, a region in Flemish Brabant. The Pajottenland has a slightly hilly and rural character. The locals therefore sometimes call their region the Tuscany of the North. Humor, pride or both? Who knows. The Pajotten (Payot was once the French name for a regional soldier) are certainly no strangers to humor. The name Pajottenland comes from a playful text from 1845. Moreover, the most famous Pajot is undoubtedly the comedian Urbanus, he still lives in Pajottenland. During your tour you will enjoy views of charming orchards. You will also pass through characteristic and tranquil villages such as Herne, Galmaarden and Vollezele. Here and there you can still see some regional square farms. The most famous building in Herne is the Carthusian monastery from the 14th century, the oldest in the Netherlands. The original building was demolished by Protestants in 1580, only the gate with the guest quarters from 1710 are still standing. The first Dutch-language Bible, the Hernse Bible, was written in this monastery around 1360. Vollezele was known in the nineteenth century for breeding the Brabant Draft Horse. Near this village you cycle through the protected landscape of the Congoberg, a witness hill that dominates the Pajottenland and offers you a beautiful panorama of the landscape.