where the fields end and the forest begins.

The countryside between Ghent, Bruges and the Scheldt is not a tourist destination, and that is precisely why it works. There is no promenade, no season and no traffic. There are fields that turn into woodland, walking and cycling routes that begin at the front door, and villages where the baker opens at seven.

The four houses are spread out. Chalet Anna-Helena in Ursel, on the edge of the woods in the Meetjesland. The Cozy Relax Home in Beernem, with a pool and hot tub, against the Bulskampveld. De Lammersdamhoeve in Wingene, where the Bruges hinterland begins. And Sophora in Elst near Brakel, in the hills of the Flemish Ardennes.

Four regions, one kind of house: large enough to be together without being on top of one another, and quiet enough that you notice your ears adjusting. All four have a view of green from the living space. That is not chance but one of the four gates.

Those who know the shoulder season book here in November and in February. Outside it is bare and inside it is warm, and that is the reason these houses exist.