Orp-Jauche(Belgium) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Aalst, the standout boutique stay is Hôtel de la Poste, a historic gem nestled in the heart of town near the Church of Our Lady and Town Hall. This 19th-century building blends French and Flemish architectural charm with modern comforts. Rooms feature warm wood finishes, hand-painted wallpapers, and some offer views of the lush courtyard. The on-site bistro serves authentic Walloon cuisine, including beef stew with mashed potatoes and regional craft beers. Guests enjoy easy access to the Aalst River Trail, perfect for morning walks and birdwatching.

The best area for accommodation in Aalst is the city center core, located just steps from the Town Hall, Church of Our Lady, and Main Square. This district offers quiet streets, excellent walkability, and proximity to local cafés, independent bookshops, and restaurants. Staying along Brussels Avenue or Our Lady Street provides convenient access to neighboring towns in the Walloon Brabant Province. Parking is readily available, making it ideal for self-drive travelers.

In Aalst, don’t miss visiting the Church of Our Lady to admire its 16th-century stained-glass windows. Attend the annual summer local farmers’ market, showcasing regional cheeses, jams, and honey from nearby farms. Join a hands-on workshop at the community cultural center to learn traditional Walloon crafts like pottery and textile weaving. Evening strolls along the Aalst River Promenade, where lights reflect on the water, offer a serene glimpse into the town’s slow-paced, authentic lifestyle.

Yes, many hotels in Aalst are family-friendly. For example, Hôtel de la Poste offers family suites, baby cots, heated bathtubs, and kid-friendly activity guides. Nearby, the Green Park features a playground and open green spaces where children can safely play. The hotel restaurant provides child-sized menus and high chairs. Additionally, the town operates a free public shuttle bus, making it easy to visit attractions like the Walloon Museum and Nature Discovery Park—ideal for stress-free family outings.

Couples should consider Le Petit Chalet, a secluded boutique cabin nestled among trees in Aalst. This private retreat features a private terrace, starlit skylight, and minimalist yet cozy interiors with a fireplace and aromatherapy system. The hotel offers a two-person dinner package with local wine and dessert. Evening walks along the Aalst River Trail or watching the nightly light show at Our Lady Square create intimate, memorable moments. Its peaceful setting makes it ideal for honeymoons or romantic getaways.

Breakfast in Aalst features locally sourced ingredients such as Walloon artisan bread, house-made yogurt, and seasonal fruit platters. At Hôtel de la Poste, guests can opt for the "Farm-to-Table Breakfast," which includes additive-free ham and fresh eggs from nearby farms. Some hotels offer outdoor dining in their gardens, where you can enjoy breakfast surrounded by birdsong and morning sunlight. Afterward, visitors can stop by the nearby handmade chocolate workshop to sample unique local flavors.

Must-try dishes in Aalst include Carbonnade à la Flamande, a rich beef stew cooked slowly in local beer with onions and mushrooms. Another specialty is Pain d'Épices, a spiced honey cake made with dark sugar, cinnamon, and walnuts—available at century-old bakeries on Old Market Street. Enjoy a chilled local ale at riverside cafés, known for its crisp maltiness. Pair it with a Walloon cheese platter to fully experience the culinary essence of southern Belgium.