Oostkamp

,
Belgium

Oostkamp is a charming municipality located in the Flemish Region of Belgium. It is known for its picturesque countryside with rolling hills, forests, and meandering rivers. The town center features historic buildings and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for leisurely strolls.

Oostkamp also boasts a strong sense of community, with a variety of cultural events and activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.

  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
  • "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $120
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $4
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $70
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Explore Oostkamp

morning

:

Start your day with breakfast at a local café to enjoy the Belgian delicacies. Afterward, visit the picturesque park near the town center for a leisurely stroll.

afternoon

:

Take a guided tour of the historic buildings in Oostkamp, including the impressive church. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant offering traditional Flemish dishes.

evening

:

Wind down with a sunset walk by the canal, followed by a relaxing dinner at a cozy bistro. Consider attending a local event if available for a taste of Ostkamp's culture.

day 2

Nature Trails

morning

:

Begin with a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventure in the nearby nature reserves. Spend your morning exploring the scenic hiking trails and enjoying the native wildlife.

afternoon

:

Settle down for a picnic lunch in the great outdoors surrounded by nature. Continue hiking or biking, taking in the beautiful landscapes.

evening

:

Return to Oostkamp for dinner at a local pizzeria. Finish the day by stargazing at a quiet spot away from city lights.

Highlights

  • Oostkamp is located in a convenient area, providing easy access to larger cities such as Bruges and Ghent.
  • The town offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere while still having necessary amenities for residents.
  • Oostkamp has a strong community spirit with various local events and activities.
  • The surrounding countryside provides beautiful landscapes and opportunities for outdoor activities such as cycling and walking.
  • Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger urban areas, making it harder to commute without a car.
  • Oostkamp may have fewer entertainment and cultural options than larger cities, which could be a drawback for some residents.
  • Job opportunities might be more limited in the town itself, potentially requiring commuting to nearby cities for work.
  • The size of the town means that some may feel isolated or that there is a lack of diversity compared to larger urban centers.

Outdoor Activities

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Oostkampse bossen

Explore the beautiful Oostkampse bossen (Oostkamp woods) for hiking, walking, and enjoying nature.

Castle of Loppem

Visit the historic Castle of Loppem and its surrounding gardens for a peaceful outdoor experience.

Cycling

Enjoy a bike ride along the scenic countryside and explore the picturesque paths around Oostkamp.

Golfing

Play a round of golf at one of the nearby golf courses such as Damme Golf & Country Club or Royal Ostend Golf Club.

Adventures

Uncover the best of Oostkamp with these unforgettable adventures.

Attractions

Visit one of these nice places.

Castle of Loppem

This historic castle offers beautiful views of the surrounding park and gardens, perfect for photography.

Bulskampveld Provincial Domain

The domain features picturesque landscapes, walking trails, and various natural photo opportunities.

Sint-Pieterskerk Oostkamp

The church and its surroundings provide a charming and photogenic setting for capturing architectural details and rural views.

Cuisine

Oostkamp, located in Belgium, offers a delightful array of cuisine that reflects the rich food culture of the region. From traditional Belgian dishes to international influences, visitors are in for a treat when exploring the culinary delights of Oostkamp.

Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Moules-frites

A quintessential Belgian dish, moules-frites consists of steamed mussels served with crispy golden fries. This classic dish can be savored at Brasserie Marie, a popular local spot known for serving this specialty.

Must-Try!

Stoofvlees

Stoofvlees, or Flemish beef stew, is another must-try dish. Tender beef is slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce, often complemented with a side of fries or bread. For an authentic taste, De Tramhalt serves a delicious version of this hearty Belgian favorite.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Oostkamp better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Oostkamp Market

Oostkamp Market is a wonderful place to experience local flavors and ingredients. Visitors can find stalls offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more. It's an excellent opportunity to sample street food like stroopwafels, Belgian waffles, and frietjes (fries) from various vendors.

Weather

The climate in this region is characterized as temperate maritime, influenced by the North Sea and the prevailing westerly winds. Summers tend to be mild, with average temperatures typically ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters are relatively cool, with average temperatures usually between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius (32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Rainfall is distributed fairly evenly throughout the year, leading to moderate precipitation levels, which can be attributed to the oceanic climate. The area experiences cloudy and damp weather conditions, especially in autumn and winter. Snowfall is possible but not very common, and when it does occur, it typically does not accumulate significantly. Overall, this climate supports a lush green landscape, with a variety of flora and fauna adapted to the temperate conditions.

How To Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect personal space

In Oostkamp, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others during conversations or interactions.

Politeness and patience

Being polite and patient in interactions with others is highly valued in Oostkamp. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is important in social interactions.

Punctuality

It is considered respectful to be punctual for meetings, events, and social gatherings in Oostkamp. Arriving on time shows consideration for others' time.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Oostkamp with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Located in the West Flanders region, this village is generally considered a safe place to live and visit. It benefits from a low crime rate, typical of many smaller towns in Belgium. The community is close-knit, contributing to a sense of security among residents. Local law enforcement is present and responsive, which helps maintain public safety. Visitors and residents often report feeling secure while walking around, even at night. Traffic safety is also prioritized, with pedestrian zones and bike paths that encourage safe transportation options. Moreover, the community engages in various neighborhood watch programs and initiatives that foster vigilance and cooperation among residents. Overall, the area is characterized by its peaceful atmosphere and a strong sense of community.

Tipping & Payment

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In Oostkamp, Belgium, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill at restaurants and bars. However, it is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% for good service.

Payment

Cash, debit/credit cards, and contactless payments are widely accepted in Oostkamp for various transactions. It is common to use cards for most payments, and ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.

Best Activities

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Oostkamp.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Oostkamp, as the weather starts to warm up and the surrounding countryside bursts into bloom with colorful flowers. It's also a good time for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.

Summer

Summer is the peak tourist season in Oostkamp, with long sunny days and pleasant temperatures. It's the perfect time to explore the town's historic sites and enjoy outdoor dining at the local cafes and restaurants.

Autumn

Autumn brings beautiful foliage to Oostkamp, with the surrounding forests and parks turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. It's a great time for nature walks and enjoying the crisp, cool weather.

Winter

Winter in Oostkamp can be chilly, but the town takes on a charming, festive atmosphere with Christmas markets and seasonal decorations. It's a cozy time to explore the local shops and warm up with a hot chocolate or traditional Belgian beer.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Oostkamp offers a more relaxed, intimate vibe compared to the bustling scenes of larger cities. Visitors and locals often enjoy cozy evenings in charming local pubs, where they can sample an array of Belgian beers and engage in friendly conversation with the community. Although the town doesn't have a vast array of nightclubs, it makes up for it with its warm, welcoming atmosphere and occasional live music performances in smaller venues. For those looking to enjoy a nice dining experience, Oostkamp boasts a selection of restaurants that serve both traditional Belgian dishes and international cuisine. Many of these dining spots transform into lively social hubs as the evening progresses, offering a place to unwind and enjoy the local flavor. Additionally, Oostkamp's close proximity to the vibrant city of Bruges allows night owls to easily access a more diverse and energetic nightlife scene while returning to the tranquility of Oostkamp for a restful night's sleep.

Hiking Spots Nearby

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Burgemeester D. Demaeghtpark

A scenic park with walking paths, ideal for easy hikes and enjoying nature.

Doomkerkeweg

A pleasant trail surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for hiking and exploring the local flora.

Kringloopwandeling - Oostkamp

A circular walking route that showcases the beautiful countryside of Oostkamp.

Kasteel Ter Borch

A historical site with surrounding woodlands and trails for hiking enthusiasts.

Beisbroek Park

A large park nearby featuring extensive trails and serene natural environments for hiking.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Oostkamp through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports Nearby

How to reach Oostkamp by plane.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

The largest international airport in Belgium, located approximately 100 km from Oostkamp.

Brussels South Charleroi Airport (CRL)

An international airport located about 120 km from Oostkamp, catering to low-cost carriers.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

A smaller airport located around 80 km from Oostkamp, primarily handling domestic and European flights.

Liège Airport (LGG)

Located approximately 130 km from Oostkamp, this airport mainly caters to cargo but also handles some passenger flights.

Oostende-Bruges International Airport (OST)

Located about 30 km from Oostkamp, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, particularly to vacation destinations.

Walkability

The walkability in this charming municipality is characterized by its blend of small-town ambiance and accessibility. With a network of pedestrian-friendly paths, residents and visitors can navigate the area easily, enjoying local shops, cafes, and parks. The presence of sidewalks and crosswalks enhances safety for pedestrians. Additionally, the compact layout of neighborhoods encourages walking as a viable mode of transportation. Public spaces, such as squares and recreational areas, are easily reachable on foot. While some areas might require a short walk to access public transport options, the overall environment promotes a leisurely pace of life where walking is a natural part of daily activities. Overall, it offers a welcoming atmosphere for those who enjoy exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Belgian Nationals

The majority of the population, including native residents and those with Belgian citizenship.

Immigrants

Individuals who have relocated to Oostkamp from other countries, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Elderly Population

Senior residents, typically aged 65 and above, who make up a significant portion of the demographic structure.

Youth Population

Children and teenagers, including school-aged children and young adults.

Working-age Population

Adults between the ages of 18 and 64, representing the labor force in the region.

The Soul of Oostkamp

Discover the essence of Oostkamp through these truly unique experiences.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Oostkamp, with local clubs and youth teams actively participating in regional leagues.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored activity in Oostkamp, given its scenic routes and cycling clubs that promote both leisure and competitive cycling.

Tennis

Tennis has a strong following in Oostkamp, with several local tennis courts and clubs offering training and matches for various age groups.

Athletics

Athletics is popular, with many residents engaging in running and track events, supported by local athletic clubs.

Swimming

Swimming is a common sport in Oostkamp, with facilities available for both recreational swimming and competitive training.

Traffic

This small municipality, located in the province of West Flanders, typically experiences moderate traffic conditions. The area features a mix of residential neighborhoods and local businesses, contributing to a steady flow of vehicles, especially during peak commuting hours in the morning and late afternoon. The road network includes local streets that connect to larger routes, facilitating access to nearby cities such as Bruges and Jabbeke. Traffic tends to be heavier on main roads and intersections, particularly where they converge near schools and shopping areas, leading to short delays at times. Public transportation options, including buses, offer alternatives for getting around, which can help alleviate some congestion. Overall, while the traffic can peak during certain times, it generally remains manageable for residents and visitors alike.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan

Oostkamp caters well to vegetarian and vegan diets, with many restaurants offering plant-based dishes alongside traditional options. Highlighted eateries such as Kaffee-ine and De Boshoeve provide excellent choices for those following these dietary preferences.

Gluten-Free Options

Visitors with gluten intolerance can find suitable options at various establishments in Oostkamp. Many restaurants are accommodating and offer gluten-free choices, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for individuals with this dietary restriction.

Cultural Immersions

Experience the heart and soul of Oostkamp with these cultural adventures.

Healthcare

In this Belgian municipality, healthcare services are characterized by a blend of traditional and modern medical practices. The local healthcare system includes various general practitioners, specialists, and healthcare facilities that cater to the needs of the population. Residents have access to a number of clinics and hospitals in the wider region, ensuring that even more specialized care is available. The healthcare system in this area operates under the broader Belgian healthcare model, which is known for its high-quality services and accessibility. Preventive care and health promotion are emphasized, with community health initiatives and programs aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyles among the population. Additionally, pharmacies are readily available, providing essential medications and health advice. For those in need of emergency services, local hospitals are equipped with the necessary facilities, and ambulance services are prompt. Healthcare costs are generally covered by the country's insurance system, allowing for a relatively low out-of-pocket expense for citizens when accessing medical care. Overall, the healthcare landscape offers a comprehensive range of services that aim to meet the diverse needs of the community.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2024 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide