From Aalst the route towards the south is very nice. It connects to several bycicle routes (schiptrekkersroute, valleitjesroute). The part to the north connects to the Schelde routes, a nice roundtrip takes you from Dendermonde to Wichelen, cross the Schelde and back to Dendermonde from where you can reconnect with the Dender route on your way back. It can be shortened using the ferry at Appels.

If you travel by bike or just want to make a tour starting from Aalst, don't hesitate. This is the best option you have. A traffic- free route along the river. The most beautiful side to choose is to Geraardsbergen, since the other side to Dendermonde is more straight, but here you can reach a higher speed as it is also larger. i do not recommend this routes for hiking, because of the large number of bikers.