Those gorgeous gardens are not the only winners around here. The town itself took the first prize in the hugely popular “Le village préféré des Français” contest in 2018. When much-loved TV host Stéphane Bern announced that Cassel had beaten much more famous rivals to the title, including Mont-Saint-Michel in Normandy and Roussillon in Provence, the locals were more than delighted. You may never have heard of this place but taking this title almost guarantees that Cassel is about to get a lot more well-known.
The charm of Cassel lies in the fact that it is typically Flemish, that it has outstanding views over the beautiful countryside, friendly folk, the gardens of Mont des Récollets and a strong sense of the authentic and of the past. It’s been likened to something out of a story from Père Castor, beloved stories for children originating in the early 20th century with a fairy-tale, folklore vibe.
It’s a small town with an excellent museum with a good collection of paintings and regular temporary exhibitions.
It’s a nice place in which to take an amble. Enjoy the views from the ramparts, the castle having long gone, or from the gardens at the highest point of Mont Cassel, 176m up, where you’ll find a windmill on the site of the former castle. You can drive to the top but its much more fun to climb the quirky Alpine stairs. While you’re there, you should definitely take a break at the enchanting Estaminet Kasteelhof, a Flemish word for a tavern. It’s actually the restaurant of Emmanuel de Quillacq of the Jardins de Mont des Récollets and reflects his love for tradition and Flanders with a fabulous rustic menu, local beers, home made lemonades and wonderful traditional décor. The terrace has stunning views and inside is atmospheric and fun. There’s also a little shop where you can buy local products (8 Rue Saint-Nicolas).
Don’t miss the Musée de Flandre which has a beautiful 16th Renaissance façade. It’s home to a rich collection of paintings, prints and sculptures and presents the history of French Flanders.
Cassel – favourite village of the French 2018