The Outsider is widely known for the organisation of outdoor activities and is meanwhile active in various locations in Belgium, especially in the Ardennes, at the coast, in its original base Oudenaarde, but also in Aalst and recently in Lummen. The organisation offers a wide range of activities. “Sometimes people think that everything we offer is full of action. However, that is only a part of our wide range,”says CEO Hendrik Vandermaliere. “Who simply wants to relax in nature without too much fuss is also at the right address with us.”
Operating base Aalst
From its base in Aalst, The Outsider enjoys a wonderful location along the river Dender. “Between Ghent and Brussels, and very easy to reach,” says Hendrik. “Aalst is experiencing a revival as a city of tourism. There is a lot of investment in infrastructure. When everything is ready, this will be an absolute pearl. That is why we want to bring adventure to Aalst with The Outsider. Our base of operations is next to Schotte Sports Complex, near the park and along the Dender. There we have an adventure domain with climbing tower, forest and meadows where we can offer adventure and events. We are located next to Duparc, the old hosiery factory. Consequently, there is also a lot of indoor infrastructure that can accommodate large groups. Moreover, we can also offer sports activities in the sports hall if the weather is not favourable.”
Kayaking, Suping, River Biking
The Outsider organises sailing activities on the river Dender. “The Dender is a wonderful pearl that meanders along a beautiful and quiet nature reserve. Here you can take your kayak out on the water and just enjoy. The big advantage is that the Dender is much closer than the Lesse and in both summer and winter there is enough water on the Dender, which is not always the case on the Lesse in summer. We can easily put a hundred people on the water. We have a number of giant canoes for 12 people each. They are more stable and give a group feeling at the same time. In addition, The Outsider also offers alternatives, such as ‘supping’ or ‘Standing Up Paddling’, upright paddling from a surfboard. Or how about a ride on a river bike? Indeed, a bike mounted on a surfboard that allows you to move across the water while riding a bicycle. Very relaxing and fun at the same time.
Whispering boats
“Lately, we have noticed that groups do want to do an activity, but only in a relaxing atmosphere. So no competition, trophy or rally, but just being together and pure enjoyment and relaxation in nature. Hence the idea of floating around in whisper boats on the Dender,” explains the CEO.“From May onwards, we will be able to offer this in a boat that can accommodate 12 people. Without any noise, thanks to the electric motor. This boat can be driven by anyone over 16 and has a maximum speed of 25 km per hour. We also provide a surprise package with champagne and local specialities. If clients wish, more extensive formulas can be linked to this, such as Dender Scrabble, or other activities with rally formula for those who want a bit more action. You can then follow a beautiful route, from Aalst to Denderleeuw without any locks, which is good for a half-day trip and ideal for kayaks, whisper boats and water bikes. You can sail from A to B or from A back to A. We will find the right formula for everyone. Commercial shipping is permitted up to the Aalst locks, and from there only pleasure boats. From there, only pleasure cruising.”
Departure is from Denderleeuw or Aalst. The whisper boats of The Outsider will be fully active from May onwards.
