Things To Do
in Bertem
Bertem is a small, leafy village in Flemish Brabant, just west of Leuven, known for its green spaces and quiet rural charm. The area blends farmland, forests, and traditional Flemish architecture, making it ideal for relaxed day trips and cycling routes. It sits comfortably within easy reach of Leuven's universities, culture, and nightlife, while maintaining a rural atmosphere.
Visitors can explore by bike or car and savor easy access to wider Brabant countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bertem and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café while soaking in the charming atmosphere of the village. Take a relaxing stroll around town, admiring the quaint architecture and vibrant gardens.
Explore the nearby nature reserve, De Riet, where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of ponds and lush greenery. Pack a picnic to enjoy by the water, or indulge in some light hiking on the various trails. The tranquility of the environment offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Dine at a traditional Belgian restaurant, savoring local specialties such as stoofvlees or waterzooi. After dinner, take a walk through the illuminated streets of Bertem, where you can appreciate the peacefulness of the evening. Cap off the night with a craft beer at a local brewery or a cozy bar.
Take a short trip to the nearby city of Leuven, home to one of the oldest universities in the world. Start your day with coffee and a pastry at a café near the university library. Visit the stunning Gothic architecture of the Old Market Square, known as the 'longest bar in the world.'
Spend your afternoon wandering through the M-Museum and enjoying contemporary art exhibitions. Take a break for lunch at one of the many restaurants offering traditional Belgian cuisine. After lunch, stroll through the botanical garden of Kruidtuin, a peaceful oasis amidst the city's bustle.
Return to Bertem for dinner at a local eatery. Share stories of your day over plates of delicious Belgian waffles for dessert. Enjoy the calm of the evening as you relax at your accommodation or take a night walk to appreciate Bertem's starry skies.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🧀Local cheese or bakery item | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee in cafe | $2-4 |
| 🚲Day bike rental | $20-40 |
| 🏨One-night mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful village atmosphere
- Close to Leuven and forests
- Great cycling routes and nature access
- Strong beer and food culture
- Limited nightlife within Bertem itself
- Public transport may require a short transfer to Leuven
- Weather can be rainy and unpredictable
- Fewer hotel options in Bertem itself
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het station?" - Where is the train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Kunt u de rekening brengen?" - May I have the bill, please?
Places to Visit in Bertem
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive forest with dappled light, tranquil paths and deer sightings, especially during golden hour.
12th-century abbey ruins and stately walls provide a dramatic backdrop for moody or architectural shots.
Iconic brick tower and churchyard set against Flemish farmhouses and cultivated fields.
Iconic Gothic town hall and bustling market square offering lively street photography, a short drive from Bertem.
Food in Bertem
Bertem Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich beef stew braised in dark beer with onions, typically served with crusty bread or fries.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked Flemish beef ragout in beer and onions, deeply flavorful and commonly enjoyed with potatoes or bread.
Mussels cooked in beer or white wine with a side of crispy Belgian fries.
A flaky puff pastry shell filled with a creamy chicken and mushroom ragout, a staple in Belgian brasseries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local produce, cheeses, breads, and seasonal specialties from the Brabant countryside.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake is common when meeting; address people politely with Mr./Ms. and use Dutch terms where possible.
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; English is commonly understood in tourist areas and universities.
Punctuality is valued for meetings; social life centers on 'gezelligheid'—friendly, relaxed gatherings.
Safety
Tipping in Bertem
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included; if you are satisfied, rounding up or leaving 5-10% is appreciated but not mandatory.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments common; ATMs available in Leuven and Bertem.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days with pleasant temperatures; expect occasional showers. Ideal for outdoor markets, forest walks, and long evenings in Leuven.
Cooler temperatures and colorful foliage in forests and farmland; great for golden-hour photography and harvest markets.
Chillier weather with possible frost or light snow; cozy cafes, beer halls, and shorter daylight hours.
Blooming trees and mild weather; perfect for forest hikes in Meerdaalwoud and countryside photography.
Bertem at Night
Hiking in Bertem
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive forest trails between Leuven and Bertem with varied terrain and easy-to-moderate hikes.
Seasonal forest near Halle known for bluebell carpets in spring; tranquil trails.
Flat riverside route with canal views and countryside scenery, suitable for all ages.
Airports
How to reach Bertem by plane.
Main international hub; about 25-40 minutes by car or train from Leuven, depending on connections.
Smaller international airport to the north; reachable within about 45-60 minutes by car or rail.
Budget-friendly option a bit further south; roughly 1-1.5 hours by road/public transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A sizable student and academic population due to proximity to KU Leuven and university campuses.
Many families live in the area and nearby villages with a strong community feel.
Expat communities and international staff at the university contribute to a diverse, multilingual environment.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is hugely popular in Flemish Brabant; scenic routes and challenging hill climbs near the forest.
Local clubs and school teams; catch a match in Leuven or nearby towns.
Forest trails and canal paths provide good routes for daily runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bertem.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose a variety of vegetables, grains, and dairy; many Belgian dishes can be adapted. Ask for meat-free versions of classics and look for daily vegetarian specials at local brasseries.