Gooik(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Hoевelaken, the top choice for authentic local charm is Hotel de Groot, a boutique hotel blending traditional Flemish architecture with modern comfort. Nestled near the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwkerk), it features a tranquil garden and hosts rotating exhibitions by regional artists. Guests enjoy guided tastings of local Belgian beer and seasonal farm-to-table dining. The hotel’s proximity to the Old Market Square makes it ideal for exploring nearby Amersfoort and Tilburg, while offering a peaceful retreat into rural Flemish Brabant life.

The city center of Hoевелакен is the optimal area for accommodation, located just steps from the Town Hall Square and historic Kerkstraat street. This quiet, walkable district offers easy access to the Church of Our Lady, cozy cafés, and weekend markets. Stay along Binnenweg or Kerkstraat for family-run guesthouses that often provide bike rentals—perfect for cycling through the scenic Waal River Valley trails. Many offer homemade Belgian chocolates as welcome gifts, enhancing the authentic experience.

Experience the vibrant Flemish Folk Festival (Vlaams Folkloristisch Feest) held annually in summer, where locals wear 19th-century costumes, perform folk dances, and ride horse-drawn carriages through decorated streets. Visit the De Kromme Molen Mill Museum to explore agricultural heritage through interactive exhibits. Art lovers should head to Hoevelaken Kunstcentrum, which hosts contemporary Belgian artist exhibitions integrated with rural settings—offering a powerful blend of tradition and modern creativity.

Yes, Hoевелакен is highly suitable for families. The Kinderpark De Vrijheid features nature trails, insect observation huts, and water-play areas perfect for kids. Hotel de Groot offers family suites and organizes activities like making Belgian waffles and designing traditional patterns. Nearby, Dierentuin Borgum zoo lets children feed deer and alpacas. With ample outdoor spaces and child-friendly events, this town provides a safe, engaging environment for all ages.

Must-try dishes include stoofvlees (slow-cooked beef stew) served with rustic rye bread—a staple at local homes. Visit De Sint-Maartenshof for seasonal menus using farm-fresh ingredients. During Saturday markets, sample Flemish cheese platters and marokkaanse bonbons (almond candies). Participate in a family recipe workshop to learn how to make Belgian fries and chocolate-filled pastries—ideal souvenirs to bring home.

Key landmarks near Hoевелакен include the Church of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwkerk), a 15th-century Gothic church with stunning stained-glass windows. Just outside town, De Heeg Estate is a well-preserved 18th-century manor now housing a cultural center with pottery workshops and antique furniture exhibitions. Nature lovers should visit Beekbos Forest, where walking paths lead to the Waal River tributaries. Spring brings wildflowers; summer offers firefly sightings, creating unforgettable moments.

From Brussels Central Station (Brussel Centraal), take an NS International train to Hoевелакен Station, a 40-minute journey with frequent departures. Exit the station and walk 10 minutes to the city center. For drivers, follow E271 highway south toward Amersfoort, then exit toward Hoевелакен—about 30 minutes. Car rental companies like Europcar offer shuttle services from the station, ideal for travelers with luggage.

The best times to visit Hoевелакен are spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when temperatures are mild and rainfall is low. Spring showcases blooming cherry trees and tulips, while autumn brings golden foliage and harvest festivals. Summer (July–August) sees more visitors but features open-air concerts and stargazing events. Winter brings festive Christmas markets adorned with lights and warm spiced wine, creating a magical atmosphere.

For couples, book a starlit suite at Hotel de Groot, complete with a private terrace and heated hot tub overlooking the garden. Stroll along the Waal River path at dusk, passing ancient bridge ruins and golden sunsets. Enjoy a hand-drawn map workshop together, creating a personalized keepsake. For a deeper connection, arrange a private dinner at the De Kromme Molen Mill Museum’s vintage restaurant, featuring a three-course meal paired with Belgian craft beer under candlelight.

Absolutely—Hoевелакен is a cyclist’s paradise. The town is connected by the Green Cycle Route Network, linking Amersfoort, Tilburg, and Beekbos Forest via flat, well-maintained paths. Local hotels like Hotel de Groot offer free bikes and detailed route maps highlighting cafes and viewpoints. Start early to ride through oak forests, pause at De Heeg Estate for homemade jam, and enjoy on-route support points—making it safe and enjoyable for all levels.