Masters by the Lys

Roger Raveel is one of the most important post-war Belgian artists. You can admire a sizeable collection of his paintings, drawings and objects in the Roger Raveel Museum. The building itself – designed by architect Stéphane Beel – is also worth a visit.

Tip: Do you want to explore the locations that played a role in Raveel’s work? You can do so on the walking route dedicated to the artist, which takes you past beautiful spots of nature. 

Want more? Then visit the historic Huis Beaucarne in Ename. This charming 18th-century mansion has been occupied by the same family for generations. Behind every corner and in every room, you come across timeless heritage and the stories that go with it.

The ideal route to Huis Beaucarne is the Cycling Node Network Route. Your tour starts in the Lys region at node 50 and ends in the Flemish Ardennes at node 70. You traverse the beautiful countryside, peppered with charming villages.

Tip: Theehuis opening hours (May-October):
In the sun-drenched courtyard, enjoy delicious cake and tea, an aperitif with tapas or - with a reservation - a delightful brunch, lunch or picnic.
Fridays and Saturdays between 2 p.m. and 8 p.m. (open from 10 a.m. with a reservation)
On Sundays between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m.

Tip: even more history
The village of Ename boasts a rich history, with roots dating back to the early Middle Ages. Want to know more? Visit Provincial Heritage Site Ename.

Tip: find even more archaeology at the Provincial Archaeology Museum in Ename. This museum is also the starting point of the Bos ’t Ename Walking Route. Along just one route, you experience a generous helping of history, heritage and nature!

The Museum of Deinze and the Lys Region (Mudel) has an impressive collection, ranging from Permeke to Minne and from Van de Woestyne to Raveel.

From 28 September 2024 to 26 January 2025, Mudel will be showcasing an absolute artist: “sun painter” Emile Claus, exponent of luminism. This exhibition features more than 100 works by the artist – who died 100 years ago – including gems from the MSK and public and private collections.

Eager for more Claus? Mudel is organising a year of initiatives around our country’s most important impressionist. 

Tip: Speaking of the sun, is it joining the party? If so, tackle the Emile Claus cycling route. As well as to Mudel, the route also takes you past Villa Zonneschijn in Astene. This house, where the artist lived and worked, is only accessible during exhibitions.

Prefer a shorter ride? The cycling route Along art in the Lys Region takes you past the Raveel Museum in Machelen, the Mudel in Deinze and the Dhondt-Dhaenens museum in Deurle. Together, these attractions are organising the Biennial of Painting, from 30 June to 6 October 2024.