Flemish Ardennes: Vintage Citroën 2CV Rental

Traveling through the countryside of Belgium in a vintage Citroën 2CV sounds like a scene straight out of a postcard. This tour offers just that—an 8-hour journey through the captivating Flemish Ardennes, famous for its cycling heritage and rolling hills. While the experience is charming and scenic, it’s important to note that it’s a relaxed, self-driven adventure ideal for those wanting a taste of local culture and landscape without the hustle of guided tours. One standout feature is how effortlessly this trip combines nostalgia, stunning vistas, and a touch of adventure. However, it might not be the best fit for travelers expecting a structured or guided commentary—this is more about the joy of driving freely at your own pace.

What we love most about this tour is the chance to pilot a classic vehicle through iconic cycling routes, offering a uniquely personal way to connect with the region’s beauty. The panoramic views of the countryside and the opportunity to stop at charming cafes or have a picnic add layers of authenticity. That said, a potential consideration is the absence of included food or drinks, so planning ahead for snacks or meals is advised. This experience is particularly well-suited for couples, groups of friends, or families seeking a relaxed, memorable day out that blends adventure with local flavor.

Key Points

• Driving a vintage car like the Citroën 2CV or Méhari is the heart of this experience, providing a nostalgic journey.
• Explore famous cycling routes including climbs like Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg, perfect for cycling enthusiasts and scenery lovers alike.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the Flemish Ardennes’ rolling hills, picturesque villages, and peaceful countryside.
• Freedom to curate your route or follow a specially designed path makes for a flexible and personalized adventure.
• Authentic stops at local Flemish cafés or picnic spots enhance the regional experience.
• Price point offers good value for a private, full-day adventure, especially considering the inclusion of the vehicle and curated route.

An In-Depth Look at the Flemish Ardennes Vintage Car Tour

Introduction: Why This Experience Stands Out

This tour isn’t about ticking off the usual sightseeing checklist—it’s about feeling the wind while driving a piece of automotive history through some of Belgium’s most scenic areas. Traveling in a vintage Citroën 2CV or Méhari, you can expect a playful combination of nostalgia and adventure. The charm of driving these iconic cars, combined with the landscape, makes it a distinctive way to explore the Flemish Ardennes.

What’s especially appealing is the scenic route that takes you over famous cycling hills, such as the Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg. These climbs are legendary in Tour of Flanders circles, so driving over them feels like being part of cycling history. The panoramic views you’ll enjoy are a major highlight, giving you sweeping vistas of lush countryside and quaint villages that seem untouched by time.

However, keep in mind that this is primarily a self-guided experience—you’ll have the choice to follow a curated route or explore freely. This setup offers great flexibility but means you’ll want to be comfortable navigating or following directions. Also, since food and drinks aren’t included, bringing snacks or planning stops for meals will help round out the day.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love scenic drives, vintage vehicles, and authentic regional experiences, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, personal adventure rather than a guided tour packed with commentary. It’s also perfect if you’re keen on cycling or cycling-inspired landscapes, given the route’s connection to the Tour of Flanders. Families or small groups of friends looking for a fun, memorable day out in Belgium will find plenty to enjoy here.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day Out

Starting Point and Vehicle Introduction

The experience begins with a briefing from your provider, De2pktjes rentals, about the vintage cars and the route. Expect a quick overview of how easy the vehicles are to drive—these classic cars are known for their simplicity, making them accessible even for those with limited driving experience.

The Drive Through the Flemish Ardennes

Once behind the wheel, the real fun begins. You’ll wind through the rolling hills that are synonymous with the region’s cycling fame, crossing over the Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg, both steeped in race history. The roads are quiet, allowing you to enjoy the sounds of the engine and the countryside instead of traffic noise.

Panoramic Views and Photo Stops

Throughout the day, you’ll have opportunities to stop at spots offering breathtaking views. The gentle slopes, patchwork farmland, and charming villages make for excellent photo moments. Many travelers noted that the scenery is so stunning it’s hard to resist pulling over just to take it all in.

Local Stops and Breaks

Your guide may suggest stopping at an authentic Flemish café—a chance to sip a local beer and soak in the local atmosphere or enjoy a picnic amidst nature. These breaks are unstructured but add an intimate touch to your journey, allowing you to relax and connect with the environment.

Flexibility and Exploration

Whether you choose to follow the curated route or explore freely, the day is flexible. This makes it perfect for spontaneous detours or linger longer at particularly scenic spots. The route is designed to maximize views and cultural touches, making sure each stop feels meaningful.

The Value of the Experience

Price and What’s Included

At $295 for a group of up to 4, this experience offers a good value considering the rental of a vintage car for a full day, along with a thoughtfully curated route. It’s a private experience, meaning you won’t be sharing the vehicle with strangers, offering a personalized, intimate adventure.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind that food, drinks, personal expenses, and gas aren’t included. It’s advisable to bring some snacks or plan to stop at local eateries, which are abundant along the route. The lack of included meals is understandable given the flexibility of stops, but planning ahead ensures you won’t be caught off guard.

Practical Aspects

• Duration: 8 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the scenery, make stops, and soak in the region’s atmosphere.
• Accessibility: The vehicles are described as easy to drive, suitable for most drivers with a valid driver’s license.
• Group Size: Private, small groups enhance the personalized feel, which many reviews appreciated.
• Reservation Flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—helpful for flexible travel plans.

Authenticity and Experience

Feedback from reviewers emphasizes the stunning views as a major highlight, with some mentioning how peaceful and beautiful the countryside feels. The ability to drive over legendary cycling hills adds a layer of cultural authenticity that cycling fans and casual travelers alike will appreciate.

Why Choose This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want more than just sightseeing—those craving a hands-on, personal adventure in a beautiful setting. If you’re a couple seeking a romantic day, a family wanting a relaxed outing, or friends looking for a memorable group activity, this tour delivers. It’s particularly appealing if you love classic cars or are curious about Belgian countryside life.

However, it’s less suitable for travelers seeking detailed guided commentary or those with limited driving confidence, as the experience is primarily self-led.

Final Thoughts

Driving through Belgium’s Flemish Ardennes in a vintage Citroën 2CV offers a charming blend of nostalgia, scenery, and local culture. The opportunity to traverse historic cycling routes, enjoy panoramic views, and stop at authentic cafés makes this a genuinely memorable day. The flexibility to follow a curated route or explore freely means you can tailor the experience to your preferences, making it perfect for a relaxed, intimate adventure.

While it’s not a guided tour with commentary, the quiet roads, stunning vistas, and distinctive vehicles create a sense of stepping into a different era. For those who love scenic drives, vintage cars, and authentic regional flavor, this tour provides excellent value and a chance to create lasting memories in Belgium’s beautiful countryside.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this experience suitable for children or teenagers?
While primarily designed for adults and private groups, the cars are easy to drive, and the experience can be enjoyed by older children or teens comfortable with driving or riding. Always check with the provider if you have specific age concerns.

Do I need a special driver’s license?
You’ll need a valid driver’s license, and an international driver’s license is recommended, especially if you’re from outside Belgium. The vehicles are described as easy to operate, so standard licenses suffice.

Can I follow my own route?
Yes, you can choose to follow the curated route provided by De2pktjes or explore freely, giving you full control over your adventure.

Are there options for guided commentary?
This experience is self-guided. If you’re interested in guided insights, you might find other tours more suitable, but this setup allows for personal exploration.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, driver’s license, and some snacks or drinks since these aren’t included. Comfortable clothing for the weather and camera gear to capture the views are also recommended.

Is the experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the experience is listed as wheelchair accessible, but it’s wise to confirm specific needs with the provider beforehand.

How do I book and cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start. This flexibility makes it a low-risk booking on your part.

Overall, this vintage Citroën adventure in the Flemish Ardennes offers a delightful way to see Belgium’s scenic heartland at your own pace—perfect for those craving a personal touch with a dash of history and stunning views.