Things To Do
in Heule

Heule is a charming village located in Belgium, part of the municipality of Kortrijk in West Flanders. Known for its picturesque landscapes and historical sites, Heule offers a glimpse into the serene Belgian countryside. The village has a rich cultural heritage, with traditional architecture and local festivals that celebrate its history.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while being close to the vibrant city of Kortrijk.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Heule
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Heule's historic church, Sint-Maartenskerk, to admire its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, explore the Heule nature reserve, where you can enjoy walking trails and the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a traditional Belgian dinner at a local restaurant, savoring dishes such as carbonnade flamande.

day 2
Day 2: Exploring Nearby Kortrijk
morning
:

Take a short walk or bike ride to Kortrijk, where you can visit the impressive Broel Towers and the historical city center.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local brasserie before visiting the Kortrijk 1302 Museum to learn about the Battle of the Golden Spurs.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip with a visit to a local bar in Kortrijk to experience the vibrant nightlife and sample some local beers.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3
🍺Local beer$5
🚌Public transport ticket$2
🏨Hotel night$80-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming and peaceful atmosphere
  • Rich cultural heritage and history
  • Close proximity to Kortrijk for more activities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities
  • Smaller selection of restaurants and shops
  • Public transport may require transfers to reach major cities
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank u wel" - Thank you
  • "Alstublieft" - Please
  • "Waar is de wc?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I do not speak Dutch

Places to Visit in Heule

Visit one of these nice places.

Sint-Maartenskerk

The historic church in Heule, with its stunning architecture and serene surroundings, provides excellent photo opportunities.

Broel Towers

Iconic medieval towers in Kortrijk, perfect for capturing the city's historical essence against the backdrop of the river.

Heule Nature Reserve

A picturesque natural setting with lush greenery and walking paths, ideal for nature photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Heule

Heule offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing the rich flavors of Belgian cuisine. From hearty traditional dishes to local delicacies, food lovers will find plenty to enjoy.

Heule Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Carbonnade Flamande

A traditional Flemish beef stew made with beer, typically served with fries.

Must-Try!

Waterzooi

A creamy stew made with chicken or fish, vegetables, and herbs, perfect for a comforting meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kortrijk Market

A vibrant market held weekly in Kortrijk, offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and street food options.

Climate Guide

Weather

Heule experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Average temperatures range from 0°C (32°F) in winter to 24°C (75°F) in summer. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's advisable to carry an umbrella. Spring and autumn are particularly pleasant, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is common when meeting someone for the first time, and saying 'bonjour' or 'goede dag' is appreciated.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before starting your meal, and keep your hands on the table but not your elbows.

Respect for Local Customs

Be respectful of the local culture and traditions, especially during festivals and religious events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Heule is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it's wise to take standard safety precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Heule

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but having some cash on hand for small purchases is advisable.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring sees blooming flowers and mild weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying local parks.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for exploring Heule and nearby Kortrijk, with numerous festivals and outdoor events.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage, and it's a great time to enjoy local harvest festivals and seasonal dishes.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with occasional snow, but festive markets and holiday decorations create a charming atmosphere.

Nightlife Guide

Heule at Night

Heule has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and pubs where you can enjoy Belgian beers and socialize with locals. Nearby Kortrijk offers a more vibrant nightlife with clubs, live music venues, and late-night dining options. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploring.

Hiking in Heule

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Kasteel van Laarne Trail

A scenic hiking trail that leads through beautiful landscapes and offers views of the historic Laarne Castle.

Leie River Path

A picturesque walk along the Leie River, featuring well-marked trails and opportunities to spot local wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Heule by plane.

Kortrijk-Wevelgem International Airport

Located approximately 10 km from Heule, this airport offers flights to various European destinations and is a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Heule is a walkable village with well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian-friendly areas. The village center and key attractions are easily accessible on foot, making it convenient for visitors to explore at a leisurely pace. However, some areas may require a short walk or bike ride to reach, especially if venturing to nearby Kortrijk.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Heule's population consists of Belgian locals, with a mix of families and retirees enjoying the peaceful village life.

Students and Young Professionals

With proximity to Kortrijk, there is a growing number of students and young professionals attracted to the area for work and education.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in the region, with local clubs and passionate fans supporting their teams.

Cycling

Given the flat terrain and scenic routes, cycling is a favored activity among locals and visitors alike.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Heule is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or bike. Public transportation options include buses that connect Heule to Kortrijk and surrounding areas, with regular schedules. Biking is also a popular choice for locals, and cycling paths are available in and around the village.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Heule.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Heule and Kortrijk offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand.

Gluten-Free Options

While traditional Belgian cuisine often contains gluten, some restaurants can accommodate gluten-free requests.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Heule and the surrounding areas is generally good, with local clinics and hospitals providing a range of medical services. In case of emergencies, the nearest hospital is in Kortrijk, which is well-equipped for urgent care. Visitors should consider obtaining travel insurance for additional peace of mind.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide