Cycling in the Westhoek between Beauvoorde and Diksmuide

The picturesque Beguinage of Diksmuide, which has existed since the thirteenth century, is special. In the past, the beguines earned their living by washing, bleaching and processing wool, cloth and linen, by making lace and by caring for the sick. In 1914, the original inhabitants disappeared and the Beguinage suffered greatly during the First World War. Later, the courtyard was rebuilt and since 1990, the Beguinage has had a social role: adults with a mental disability live there semi-independently.

On the way you can visit Beauvoorde Castle. This moated castle was already there in 1408. In 1584 the Geuzen set fire to the castle, which caused it to be rebuilt in 16717. When it had fallen into disrepair, the building was saved from total demolition in 1875. Jonkheer Arthur Merghelynck, who had the building restored, also had a French-English garden built. After his death he assigned Beauvoorde Castle to the State. In 2014 the castle can be visited, as can the heritage shop and the visitors' centre in the building. In the summer an exhibition and other cultural activities are organised.