The Ultimate Road Trip from Aalst to Westerlo
Do you love to travel by car and explore new places? The road trip from Aalst to Westerlo is one of the most stunning ones you can take in Belgium. Both cities are located in the Flemish region, an area known for its lush greenery, quaint historic towns, and charming landscapes. The journey takes about an hour and a half, covering a distance of around 75 kilometers. Along the way, you'll come across some of the most spectacular attractions and hidden gems that you would not want to miss. Below is a list of some of the top must-see places to visit when driving from Aalst to Westerlo.
The Best Places to See When Driving From Aalst, Oost-Vlaanderen to Westerlo, Antwerpen
Aalst
Grote Markt - Start your road trip right by visiting the heart of Aalst, the Grote Markt. This historic square is situated in the center of the city and is surrounded by traditional Flemish buildings like the City Hall, Belfry, and several cafes and restaurants. The square has a lively atmosphere, and you can spend hours sitting here, people-watching, while sipping a cup of coffee. During the carnival season, the Grote Markt is transformed into a colorful parade ground where locals wear extravagant costumes and dance through the streets.
St. Martin's Church - Located on the east side of the Grote Markt, this magnificent Gothic church is a prominent landmark in Aalst and dates back to the 15th century. The church's tower rises up to 101 meters and is visible from anywhere in the city. Once inside, you'll be awed by the intricate stained glass windows and the grand altar. The church is open every day, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about its history and architecture.
Mechelen
- The Palace of Margaret of Austria - Our next stop as we head towards Westerlo is the Palace of Margaret of Austria, located in Mechelen. The palace was built in the 16th century and served as a residence for Margaret of Austria, a Habsburg princess who was also a patron of the arts and music. The palace is stunning, featuring a beautifully decorated façade, elegant halls, and a striking courtyard. Today, the palace houses the impressive Belgian Tapestry Museum, showcasing some of the finest Flemish tapestries from the 15th and 16th centuries.
Lier
- Zimmer Tower - As we travel further towards Westerlo, we come across the charming town of Lier. The town is home to several historic buildings, including the Zimmer Tower, situated next to the Lier River. The tower dates back to the 18th century and served as a watchtower and prison. Today, it houses a carillon, a musical instrument consisting of bells, that chimes every hour. You can also climb to the top of the tower to enjoy a beautiful view of the town and the river.
Heist-op-den-Berg
- Kasteel van Heks - Our final stop before reaching Westerlo is the Kasteel van Heks, a magnificent castle located in Heist-op-den-Berg. The castle dates back to the 17th century and is surrounded by a beautiful garden and park. The castle is open for visitors only on weekends and public holidays, but it's worth the visit to explore the grand halls, exquisite decorations and learn about the history of the castle.
Conclusion
Driving from Aalst to Westerlo is an excellent opportunity to discover the hidden gems of the Flemish region and enjoy the stunning landscapes along the way. The road trip offers something for everyone, from quaint historic towns to magnificent castles and museums. Take your time to explore each attraction and indulge in the local cuisine and culture. Whether you're travelling solo, with family, or friends, this road trip is sure to be one of your favorites.