Belgium is known for its wide variety of beers, but for beer enthusiasts seeking a truly unique experience, the Senne Valley is the birthplace of one of the most fascinating beer styles in the world: lambic. Nestled between Brussels and the Pajottenland region, the Senne Valley offers a one-of-a-kind beer pilgrimage where beer lovers can embark on an adventure tasting lambic in its most authentic form. Taking this journey in a camper van not only allows for a flexible itinerary but also immerses travelers in the picturesque scenery of rural Belgium, filled with rolling hills, historic towns, and quaint farms. This guide will take you through the magic of lambic beer, the history of the Senne Valley, and how to make the most of a lambic brewery tour in a camper van.
What Is Lambic?
Lambic is a style of beer that sets itself apart from others due to its spontaneous fermentation process. Most beers are brewed using cultivated yeast strains, but lambic relies on wild yeasts and bacteria naturally present in the Senne Valley’s air. This brewing method dates back centuries, producing a beer that is complex, tart, and often slightly funky. Lambic is typically brewed between October and April, as the cooler temperatures help control the fermentation process and prevent undesirable microorganisms from spoiling the beer.
The base lambic can be aged or blended with fruits like cherries (to make Kriek) or raspberries (to make Framboise), or it can be further blended to create Gueuze—a sparkling version often referred to as “Belgian champagne.” These variations offer a broad spectrum of flavors, from tangy and sour to earthy and mildly sweet, making it an intriguing drink for beer enthusiasts.
The Senne Valley: The Heart of Lambic Brewing
The Senne Valley, situated just southwest of Brussels, is not only home to lambic but is considered the only place in the world where “true” lambic can be made due to its unique environmental factors. The microflora found in the air of the valley play an essential role in the spontaneous fermentation process, making the area a natural fermenting chamber.
This region includes several iconic lambic breweries and gueuzeries (places where gueuze is blended). Some have been operating for centuries, while others represent newer, yet equally dedicated, players in the lambic scene. The Senne River, from which the valley takes its name, weaves through this landscape of small villages, lush greenery, and farmland, creating the perfect setting for a camper van road trip that combines history, culture, and beer.
The Freedom of a Camper Van Adventure
Exploring the Senne Valley by camper van provides an unparalleled sense of freedom. With your accommodations on wheels, you’re not tied to a specific schedule or dependent on public transport. This flexibility allows you to explore breweries, villages, and scenic spots at your own pace. It’s also an ideal way to travel between rural and urban settings, offering the chance to camp near breweries, spend nights under the stars, and wake up to fresh Belgian countryside air.
Several campgrounds and rural sites around the valley cater to camper vans, offering services such as water, electricity, and sanitation facilities. Many are conveniently located near lambic breweries, allowing for a safe and easy retreat after a day of beer tasting.
Day 1: Brussels – The Gateway to Lambic
Start your lambic tour in Brussels, the capital of Belgium and a bustling hub for beer lovers. While Brussels is more famous for its Trappist ales, it also has deep ties to lambic culture. Before venturing into the rural parts of the Senne Valley, make a stop at Cantillon Brewery, located in the heart of Brussels. Established in 1900, Cantillon is one of the last remaining traditional lambic producers in the city.
Cantillon offers guided tours where visitors can learn about the brewing process, fermentation, and the history of lambic beer. The brewery’s cobweb-lined wooden barrels, coolship (a shallow vessel used to cool the wort and expose it to wild yeast), and ancient equipment give a sense of how little the process has changed over the centuries.
After sampling some Cantillon lambics or gueuzes, you can pick up a few bottles to enjoy later during your journey. From here, set off towards the countryside in your camper van.
Day 2: Beersel – A Journey into the Heart of Lambic
Just a short drive from Brussels lies the town of Beersel, a must-visit stop for lambic lovers. Beersel is home to Brouwerij Oud Beersel, one of the oldest and most iconic lambic breweries in the region, founded in 1882. The brewery, which closed for a period and then reopened under new management in 2005, has maintained its commitment to traditional brewing methods.
Here, you can tour the brewery, sample its array of lambics, and learn about the delicate balance of aging beer in oak barrels. The brewery also produces other lambic variants, including Kriek and Gueuze, so this is a great opportunity to expand your palate.
For lunch, consider stopping by the nearby Het Bierhuis Oud Beersel, a tavern offering a range of lambic beers paired with traditional Belgian cuisine.
After your brewery tour, head to the Beersel Castle—a medieval fortress surrounded by a moat and lush greenery. The castle’s serene atmosphere is the perfect spot to relax after a day of tasting.
When it comes time to settle in for the evening, drive your camper van to a nearby campsite like Camping Grimbergen, which offers amenities such as electric hook-ups and sanitation stations. Relax under the stars with a bottle of lambic as you plan your next day.
Day 3: The Pajottenland – The Lambic Heartland
The following morning, drive deeper into the countryside toward the Pajottenland region, often referred to as the heartland of lambic brewing. This rural area is dotted with family-run farms, winding country roads, and traditional lambic breweries, offering a glimpse into the roots of this ancient brewing tradition.
Make your first stop at Brouwerij Boon, located in the town of Lembeek, which is sometimes considered the birthplace of lambic. Boon is a renowned brewery known for producing a wide range of lambic styles, from the traditional to the experimental. The brewery tour provides an in-depth look at their blending techniques and barrel-aging process.
After your visit to Boon, drive a little farther to Brouwerij 3 Fonteinen in the village of Lot. 3 Fonteinen is one of the most highly regarded lambic breweries in the world, known for its meticulous blending and aging practices. The brewery features a tasting room where you can sample rare blends, aged lambics, and limited-edition bottles.
This is also a good place to have lunch, as the brewery offers food options that pair well with their beer. If you’re lucky, you may catch one of their beer release events, which attract lambic enthusiasts from all over the world.
For the evening, find a quiet place to park your camper van near a scenic area or village. The Pajottenland’s rural nature makes it easy to find peaceful spots to camp, and waking up to the sound of birds and the fresh countryside air will make your lambic journey even more memorable.
Day 4: A Day of Nature and Beer in Gooik
On day four, set off to the small town of Gooik, nestled in the heart of the Pajottenland. While not as well-known as Beersel or Lembeek, Gooik offers a quieter, more serene experience that balances beer tasting with the beauty of nature.
Start your day with a visit to De Cam, a small brewery and blendery specializing in traditional lambic beers. De Cam is unique in that it focuses solely on the blending process, purchasing lambic wort from other breweries and aging it in their own barrels to create Gueuze and Kriek. The brewery’s tasting room is intimate, and the staff is incredibly knowledgeable about the intricacies of lambic production.
Once you’ve sampled the beers at De Cam, spend the afternoon exploring the natural beauty of the Pajottenland. Gooik is home to several nature reserves and walking trails, where you can enjoy the rolling hills and picturesque farmlands. Bring along a bottle of lambic and some local cheese for a relaxing picnic surrounded by nature.
For your final night in the region, park your camper van at a local farm that offers camping, such as Camping De Groene Linden. Many farms in the Pajottenland open their doors to camper van travelers, providing a rustic and peaceful environment to wind down after a day of exploring.
Day 5: The Return to Brussels
As your lambic tour comes to a close, begin your journey back to Brussels. Along the way, you may want to stop at any of the breweries you missed or revisit one of your favorites for a final tasting. Many breweries offer the chance to purchase bottles to take home, so be sure to stock up on your favorite lambics to share with friends and family.
Once back in Brussels, take some time to reflect on your journey over a glass of lambic at a local café or beer bar. Places like Moeder Lambic or A La Mort Subite offer a wide selection of lambic beers in a cozy setting, providing the perfect end to your adventure.
Tips for a Successful Lambic Camper Van Tour
- Plan Your Route: While a camper van offers flexibility, it’s a good idea to have a rough itinerary in place to ensure you don’t miss any must-visit breweries. Make note of opening hours, as some breweries require advance booking for tours.
- Responsible Drinking: Remember that Belgium has strict drinking and driving laws. Make sure to pace yourself during tastings and have a designated driver if needed. Many breweries also offer alcohol-free options or smaller tasting pours.
- Camper Van Services: Look for campgrounds that cater to camper vans, offering essential services such as water refills, electricity, and waste disposal. Apps like Park4Night can help you find suitable spots.
- Pack Light: While your camper van offers storage space, remember that you’ll likely be purchasing bottles along the way. Save room for your lambic haul!
- Enjoy the Scenery: The Senne Valley and Pajottenland are full of hidden gems, from charming villages to rolling fields. Take the time to explore beyond the breweries and immerse yourself in the Belgian countryside.
Where to stay
Here’s a list of camper van sites conveniently located along the Senne Valley lambic route, offering you the chance to enjoy both the beers and the beautiful Belgian countryside:
1. Camping Grimbergen (Near Beersel)
- Location: About 20 km north of Brussels
- Description: A quiet, well-maintained campsite close to the town of Beersel, making it a great base for visiting Brouwerij Oud Beersel and the Beersel Castle. The site offers good amenities like electricity hook-ups, water, and sanitary facilities.
- Website: Camping Grimbergen
- Distance to Brewery: 10-20 minutes by camper van
2. Camping De Groene Linden (Gooik, Pajottenland)
- Location: In the heart of the Pajottenland, near the village of Gooik
- Description: A family-run farm campsite offering a peaceful rural environment surrounded by nature. It’s a perfect stop for visiting De Cam brewery and the beautiful nature reserves in the area.
- Facilities: Water, electric hook-ups, waste disposal
- Distance to Brewery: About 5 minutes by camper van to De Cam
- Contact: Local contact upon arrival
3. Camping Berkenhof (Dworp, Near Beersel)
- Location: Near Dworp, close to Beersel and Brouwerij Oud Beersel
- Description: A peaceful, family-friendly campsite nestled in a forested area, ideal for campers seeking a bit of nature after a day of beer tasting. It’s also close to hiking and cycling routes.
- Facilities: Showers, toilets, and electric hook-ups
- Website: Camping Berkenhof
- Distance to Brewery: 10 minutes by camper van
4. Camping Zavelbos (Near Lembeek, Pajottenland)
- Location: Near Lembeek and Brouwerij Boon
- Description: A well-kept campsite with easy access to nearby lambic breweries like Boon. It offers scenic views, clean facilities, and a relaxing atmosphere for an overnight stay in the Pajottenland region.
- Facilities: Electric hook-ups, water supply, sanitary block
- Distance to Brewery: 15 minutes by camper van to Brouwerij Boon
5. Camping Druivenland (Overijse, Near Brussels)
- Location: A little outside of Brussels, near the town of Overijse, between Brussels and the Senne Valley
- Description: A convenient site to stop on your way out of Brussels, offering modern facilities and close proximity to Cantillon Brewery. Overijse is known for its vineyards, so there’s a mix of beer and wine culture to enjoy in the area.
- Facilities: Sanitary facilities, electric hook-ups, waste disposal
- Website: Camping Druivenland
- Distance to Brewery: About 25 minutes by camper van to Cantillon Brewery in Brussels
6. Camperplaats Gooik (Near Gooik)
- Location: A simple parking spot in the center of Gooik, ideal for an overnight stop in the Pajottenland region
- Description: While it’s a minimalist site, it provides a safe, legal place to park your camper van. It’s within walking distance to local amenities and some of the walking trails in the area, making it a good budget-friendly option.
- Facilities: Parking only, no additional services
- Distance to Brewery: 10 minutes by camper van to De Cam
7. Camping Geraardsbergen (Near Pajottenland)
- Location: Slightly outside of the Pajottenland, near the historic town of Geraardsbergen
- Description: Located near the Dender River, this site offers a mix of nature and history. It’s a longer drive from the central lambic breweries but provides a beautiful area to stay if you’re exploring the broader region.
- Facilities: Full-service campsite with electric hook-ups, water, waste disposal
- Distance to Brewery: 30 minutes by camper van to Brouwerij Boon
8. Camper Park Waterhoek (Near Halle)
- Location: Close to the town of Halle, which is situated near Brouwerij Boon and the Pajottenland region
- Description: A dedicated camper van parking site near the Senne River, offering basic services and easy access to nearby breweries. A good option for a quick overnight stay while continuing your lambic tour.
- Facilities: Electric hook-ups, water, waste disposal
- Distance to Brewery: 10 minutes by camper van to Brouwerij Boon
Camper Van Travel Tips
- Parking Apps: Use apps like Park4Night or Campercontact to find parking spots or campsites along your route, many of which cater to camper vans with the necessary facilities.
- Booking Ahead: Some of the smaller, more rural campsites may have limited spaces, so it’s advisable to call ahead or check online for availability, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Brewery Accommodations: Some lambic breweries, especially those in more rural areas, offer the possibility of parking a camper van on-site or nearby for the night. Be sure to inquire during your brewery visit.
These camper van sites will not only keep you comfortable but also place you right in the middle of the lambic brewing heartland, allowing for an immersive and flexible beer adventure through the Senne Valley.
Senne Valley’s Lambic Breweries
Embarking on a lambic tour through the Senne Valley in a camper van is a beer lover’s dream come true. It’s a journey that goes beyond tasting and delves deep into the history, culture, and tradition of lambic brewing. With the freedom to explore at your own pace, stunning scenery, and unforgettable beers, a camper van tour of the Senne Valley promises an experience like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned lambic enthusiast or new to this unique style of beer, this adventure will leave you with lasting memories and a newfound appreciation for one of Belgium’s oldest brewing traditions.