Borgloon

This picturesque town is renowned for its fruit farms and orchards, particularly cherry and apple cultivation that defines the Haspengouw fruit region. The scenic cycling routes through blooming orchards in spring and the town's connection to agricultural heritage make it a pastoral highlight of Southeast Flanders.

Things to do

• Cycling through Haspengouw Orchards — Follow marked cycling routes that wind through the region's famous cherry and apple orchards, offering spectacular views during spring blossom season and autumn harvest.
• Visit Local Fruit Farms — Tour working cherry and apple farms around Borgloon to learn about traditional fruit cultivation methods and purchase fresh seasonal produce directly from farmers.
• Explore Borgloon Town Center — Wander through the historic town with its traditional Flemish architecture, local shops, and cafés that reflect the region's agricultural heritage.
• Spring Orchard Walking Tours — Participate in guided walks through blooming cherry and apple orchards in April and May when the landscape transforms into a white and pink floral display.
• Regional Museum Visits — Visit museums in nearby towns documenting Haspengouw's fruit farming history and traditional agricultural practices spanning centuries.

Food to try

• Fresh Cherry Tart (Kersenvlaai) — A traditional Haspengouw dessert featuring locally-grown cherries in a creamy custard tart, best enjoyed during cherry season in June and July.
• Apple Strudel — A regional pastry made with Haspengouw apples, cinnamon, and raisins, reflecting centuries of fruit-focused baking traditions.
• Fruit Liqueurs — Local distilleries produce cherry, apple, and plum liqueurs using orchard fruit, offering distinctive regional flavors available at farm shops and markets.
• Seasonal Fruit Markets — Visit weekly farmers' markets where local producers sell fresh-picked cherries, apples, and other seasonal fruits, often with tastings and farm recommendations.

Local customs & good to know

• Spring Blossom Festival Timing — Plan visits for late April through May to experience the region's most celebrated season when cherry and apple blossoms peak and local festivities occur.
• Agricultural Respect — Respect private orchard lands by sticking to marked cycling routes and purchasing from farms rather than picking fruit without permission.
• Farm Shop Etiquette — Direct-purchase farm shops are common; bring cash, expect smaller selections than supermarkets, and engage with farmers who often share cultivation knowledge.

Nearby

• Tongeren — 9 km
• Sint-Truiden — 15 km
• Hasselt — 16 km
• Herk-de-Stad — 20 km