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Ronse in de Vlaamse Ardennen
De Rieke, in the hills of the Flemish Ardennes
Ronse, vibrant city on the language border
Ronse is located in the heart of the Flemish Ardennes and is known for its stunning views and green rolling hills. The city is an ideal destination for those who enjoy challenging cycling and hiking routes, while also wanting to experience culture and history.
Besides its natural surroundings, Ronse offers many tourist attractions within walking distance of the city centre. From historic buildings to hidden gems: this compact city combines relaxation in nature with a rich cultural offering.
Architecture
From Basilica to Art Deco
The crypt beneath the Saint Hermes Basilica in Ronse already attracted pilgrims in the Middle Ages and remains a remarkable example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture.
Since 2020, the basilica has undergone a major renovation, with the final restoration phase starting in 2023.
Ronse also bears the traces of its thriving textile industry. Between the two World Wars, textile barons and executives built magnificent homes on the outskirts of the city in the then-modern Art Deco style, which still shapes the cityscape today.
Van basiliek tot Art Deco
De crypte onder de Sint‑Hermesbasiliek in Ronse trok al in de middeleeuwen pelgrims en blijft een bijzonder voorbeeld van romaans‑gotische architectuur.
Sinds 2020 kreeg de basiliek een grondige vernieuwing, met een laatste restauratiefase die in 2023 van start ging.
Ronse draagt ook de sporen van zijn bloeiende textielindustrie. Tussen de wereldoorlogen bouwden textielbaronnen en kaderleden aan de stadsrand schitterende woningen in de toen moderne art‑decostijl, die vandaag nog steeds het stadsbeeld bepalen.
Discover the heart of Ronse
Ronse is full of culture, folklore and sporting events all year round.
From centuries-old traditions such as the Fiertel and colourful celebrations like the Bommels to the world-famous passage of the Tour of Flanders: every event gives the city its unique charm.
During your stay at De Rieke, you can experience this authentic atmosphere just a short distance from your holiday home.
The Fiertel
The Fiertel is a centuries-old procession during which locals and visitors walk together along the city boundaries around Saint Hermes, as a symbol of protection and unity. It is a unique blend of tradition, faith and folklore that brings the identity of Ronse to life every year.
Tour of Flanders
When the Tour of Flanders races through Ronse, the city turns into one big cycling celebration filled with atmosphere, excitement and enthusiastic supporters. The famous climbs and cobblestones challenge the peloton and make Ronse an unforgettable highlight of Flanders’ finest race.
The Bommels
The Bommels are a colourful folk festival where parade floats, costumed groups and a spectacular light show bring the city to life. It is a warm and lively celebration that brings the people of Ronse together to welcome the new year in style.
The images are made possible thanks to the work of David Stockman, Anneke Kestelijn, Fabrice Gevaert, Erwin Huyghe, Bart Heirweg, Bjorn Vinois, Eric Bordeaud’huy, Philippe Laurier, Eddy Coppens, Piet De Kersgieter, Stefanie Faveere, Kim Langie, Peter Malaise, Ellen Claes and Frankie and Fish.