Discover Kortemark

At the heart of Kortemark lies De Krekemeersen, an area that brings together water management, nature and recreation. There is also a signposted walking route, a cycling route linked to mills, and cultural sites with clearly distinct themes. If you are planning a stay in Kortemark, you can combine outdoor activities with local and mill history. Each destination showcases a different side of the municipality.

Nature and activities in Kortemark

De Krekemeersen has play equipment for children, benches and a public barbecue area. These facilities add to the recreational character of this multifunctional area: alongside nature and water management, it also offers practical opportunities for play and spending time outdoors.

In the centre of Kortemark, the treasure hunt “De Gouden Zon in de Krekemeersen” is aimed at families with children aged between five and eleven. If you are travelling with children in this age group, the age range provides a clear guide for planning. The treasure hunt’s name refers to De Krekemeersen; the centre of Kortemark is listed as the activity’s location.

Walking and cycling

The signposted Ellekring walking route passes through and around the old quarter of Elle. Along the way, it goes past the Ieperse Heerweg, the Oude Zeedijk, the Leenbos and the valley of the Grysperrebeek. As well as the old quarter, the route description names several specific paths and landscape features.

The Molenroute is another way to explore Kortemark by bike. It passes the municipality’s four mills and scenic spots such as Barisdamstraat, using roads with little traffic. Unlike the Ellekring, which is described as a walk through and around Elle, this route focuses on connecting the mills by bike. You can choose between the two options based on the activity you prefer and their respective themes.

Mills, architectural history and views

Dating from 1436, the Koutermolen is the oldest mill in the municipality of Kortemark. Its history also includes an episode from the First World War: the German occupying forces set up a telephone exchange in the mill. Until 1917, it ground oats for horse feed for the occupation troops. In a later period, the Sint-Bartholomeus parish church was built between 1923 and 1925 as a three-aisled Gothic Revival hall church.

The former brewery complex is also defined by its surviving structures. The two chimneys and the Mouttoren remain standing and have been incorporated into a new mixed-use zone. The Mouttoren has an observation platform with views of the surrounding area. As access arrangements may change, check them before visiting.

Brewery tour for groups

Brouwerij Den Buiten offers groups of twelve or more a brewery tour with a demonstration and tasting. The tour covers all stages of the brewing process; there is also a light snack and a tasting of various beers. Booking details may change, so it is advisable to check them in advance.

Discover more destinations: Handzame, Doomkerke, Damme, Zuienkerke, Wielsbeke, Blankenberge, Lendelede, Kuurne

For the overview of the wider region: West Flanders.