I tested … Camelids

I never thought I’d one day be walking the paths of Flanders accompanied by… a llama. And yet that’s exactly what I experienced in Pitgam, a small village where the calm of the fields meets the gentleness of these animals like no others.

As soon as I arrived, I was greeted by the curious and peaceful looks of the llamas and alpacas. The owner of the farm, a passionate and caring woman, first taught me how to approach them, to understand their discreet language, and to walk at their pace. Because here, there’s no question of rushing: everything is done slowly and harmoniously.

We set off together for a walk through the countryside. The scenery was magnificent, but what made the experience unique was the quiet presence of my four-legged companion. Every step was an invitation to slow down, observe and breathe.

Children and adults alike can experience this moment of complicity, made up of gentleness, astonishment and sometimes laughter – because camelids have their character! But they also offer a soothing, almost meditative presence.

When I came back, I felt relaxed, smiling and a bit transformed. This unusual encounter in Pitgam will remain a sweet and simple memory, deeply human… and animal.