I tested … bike hire | terredeflandre

Saddling up for adventure It's more fun on a bike!

All I had to do was get on my bike and the adventure began. Before long, the sound of the engine gave way to birdsong, the screech of tyres on country lanes and the wind blowing through fields of flax.

Thanks to on-site hire, there’s no need to worry about a thing: a suitable bike, ready to go, and off I go for a day in the fresh air. You don’t have to be a great sportsman – here, the routes of the Points Nœuds network are accessible, signposted and full of surprises. Whether you’re with the family, friends or on your own, there’s something for everyone.

As the kilometres go by, I discover Flanders in a different way: authentic landscapes, charming villages, improvised breaks in a café rando, in an estaminet or on the edge of a field. Every stop is an encounter, a viewpoint, a story.

Cycling here is much more than a means of transport. It’s about experiencing the area to the full, feeling it, crossing it, understanding it.

And above all, it’s about taking time – breathing, marvelling and creating real memories.

©Flanders Plain and Coastal Nodes Network|Nolween Leurquin

The Points Noeuds network Flanders Plain and Coast

I’ll long remember the day I got on my bike and set off to discover the Flanders Plain and Coastal Network. As soon as I started pedalling, I realised that this wasn’t going to be a simple ride, but a real immersion in a rich territory, with its generous nature, discreet heritage and typically Flemish atmosphere.

I’d planned my itinerary very simply, using a system of nodes. I had a map in my pocket, which I could pick up free of charge at the Tourist Office or order online, a few numbers to remember, and off I went along the signposted paths, free to choose my route and let myself be carried along by my desires. Each crossroads is an invitation to adventure: you follow one number, then another, and little by little, the landscape reveals itself.

I pedalled across the green plains to the rhythm of the birds and the wind. Red-roofed Flemish farmhouses dotted the horizon, while village steeples appeared in the distance like familiar landmarks.

But what I loved most was the feeling of serenity. No stress, no heavy traffic. Just me, my bike, and the pleasure of letting myself be guided. I met families out for a ride, seasoned cyclists and Sunday strollers, all united by the same desire to enjoy this corner of Flanders at their own pace.

When I got home, my legs a little tired but my heart light, I knew I’d be back. The points-nœuds network is much more than a route on a map: it’s a promise of freedom, authenticity and escape.

FavouritesLand of services

Route You

RouteYou, a simple, reliable and inspiring travel companion. The perfect tool for travelling differently, and exploring Flanders with complete peace of mind. Whether on foot, by bike or even by car, Route You offers you tailor-made routes, enriched with points of interest, suggested breaks and even historical anecdotes. It’s as if you had a local guide with you every step of the way.

Follow us on our : Pro Page Terre de Flandre Tourisme

©Route You logo

Bike home

The label, represented by this little green logo, is much more than just a sticker: it’s a promise of a warm welcome, services tailored to cyclists, tools for a little revision, invaluable advice on the routes to follow… in short, a real understanding of your needs.
Find our approved establishments here

©Accueil Velo logo

Hiking Cafés

Take a break in one of the Cafés Rando. You’ll be greeted with a smile and an authentic atmosphere. A hot drink, a local beer, sometimes even a home-made pie or a local dish… All in a typically Flemish setting, with exposed beams, chequered tablecloths and cheerful conversation.
Find out which establishments have the label here

On scooters?

Do you prefer scooters to bikes?

Don’t worry, we also offer scooter hire from Bergues. You can book them online by clicking here .

The soul of the North Flemish authenticity at your table

Push open the door of a genuine Flemish Estaminet and let yourself be enchanted… Here, time seems to stand still, the atmosphere is warm and authenticity is savoured with every bite. These certified establishments are much more than just restaurants: they are havens of conviviality, where the soul of the North warms hearts and awakens taste buds.

Under exposed beams, in front of a roaring fire or on a flower-filled terrace, savour generous, traditional cuisine: melt-in-your-mouth Flemish carbonnade, delicately marinated Potjevleesch, comforting welsh… All accompanied by a carefully selected craft beer.

Flemish estaminets