In the quiet countryside of Diksmuide, Belgium, De Dolle Brouwers (The Mad Brewers) is a brewery as bold and eccentric as its name suggests. We visited in July as part of a Beercycling tour, pedaling through the serene Flemish backroads. That morning started off gray and rainy, adding a dramatic touch to the lush green surroundings—but just as we rolled up to the brewery, the clouds parted and the sun broke through. It was the perfect welcome to this offbeat gem. We even had the chance to meet the owner himself, whose passion and storytelling added an unforgettable layer to the tasting experience.
The Experience at De Dolle Brouwers
Walking into De Dolle Brouwers feels like stepping into a mad scientist’s beer lab. Housed in a century-old brewery, the space oozes character—walls covered in vintage beer posters, old bottling equipment tucked into corners, and a warm, rustic tasting room filled with the scent of hops and history. The beers here are unapologetically bold, from the legendary Arabier to the strong and complex Stille Nacht.
Meeting the owner Kris Herteleer was a highlight. He is the creative force and eccentric heart behind De Dolle Brouwers. An artist, architect, and brewer all in one, Kris brings a wildly imaginative spirit to everything he touches—from the bold flavors of his beer to the hand-drawn labels that adorn each bottle.
To Get There
Address:
Brouwerij De Dolle Brouwers
Roeselarestraat 12B, 8600 Esen (Diksmuide), Belgium
Parking:
There’s a small lot directly in front of the brewery that can fit a handful of cars. Street parking is also available nearby. If you’re cycling, there’s plenty of space to park your bike just outside.
Entrance Fee:
Free to enter, but tours and tastings typically have a small fee. (Confirm updated prices before you go—ours was included in the BeerCycling tour.)
When To Go
“De Dolle Brouwers” translates to “The Mad Brewers”—and the name fits perfectly. Originally built in 1835 as the Costenoble Brewery, it was resurrected in the 1980s by two brothers with a love for bold beer and Belgian tradition. They kept the old-school brewing methods but added their own artistic flair, both in the flavor and the whimsical label designs. Today, it’s one of Belgium’s most distinctive small breweries, known for its experimental edge and fiercely loyal fan base.
Where to Stay Nearby
If you’re spending the night in Diksmuide or the surrounding region, here are a few charming options:
- Hotel Pax – Modern amenities in the center of Diksmuide, about a 10-minute drive from the brewery.
- B&B ‘t Withuis – A cozy and beautifully restored farmhouse with a country vibe.
- Camping or cycling lodges – For those continuing on a biking tour, there are scenic campsites and cycling-friendly guesthouses nearby.
Additional Tips
- Bring cash – Smaller breweries sometimes don’t accept cards.
- Arrive early on weekends – Tours can fill up quickly and seating in the tasting room is limited.
- Don’t rush – This is the kind of place where you want to sip slowly and soak it all in.
- Try the Stille Nacht – If it’s available, this holiday beer is legendary.
Resources
Tours
We went with BeerCycling, a guided bike tour that includes curated stops at Belgium’s best breweries. It was the perfect way to explore the countryside while indulging in some of the best craft beer in the world—without worrying about who’s driving.
Final Thoughts
Visiting De Dolle Brouwers was one of those unforgettable stops that blends quirky charm, passionate storytelling, and damn good beer. It’s not just a tasting—it’s an experience. If you’re anywhere near West Flanders, carve out time for this delightfully mad brewery. You won’t regret it.
Looking for more Belgian adventures?
Check out my other posts on exploring beer, history, and countryside charm across Flanders and beyond.