 Main characteristics of the region are rural hilly landscapes with hilltop bluebell woodlands (Muziekbos, Brakelbos, Kluisbos), windmills and watermills.The area is distinct from the Ardennes, which is further to the south in Wallonia, France and Luxembourg.Among the largest towns in the area are Oudenaarde, Ronse, Zottegem and Geraardsbergen.