Berlare walks

In the heart of East Flanders, where the Scheldt river stretches out its peaceful arms, lies a land of water, woods and mysteries: Berlare Broek, Nieuwdonk, Maaidonk... names that whisper of nature and legends. Around the Donkmeer, a vast mirror of water, paths wind their way between wet meadows and old willow trees. Herons, kingfishers and deer remind us of the richness of unspoilt nature. Berlare Broek, a former peat bog, preserves the memory of a past when peat was extracted, before the water reclaimed its kingdom. Further on, Uitbergen Castle watches over the valley, and it is said that a white lady appears there on certain foggy evenings. Finally, between Paardenweide and Donhoeverpark, the Flanders of yesteryear reveals itself: a light breeze, reflections on the water and soothing silence.

On the itinerary: Asse Ter Heide, Leibeek, Kravaalbos, Kleigat, Herenbos, Meisberg and Meldert. The Kravaalbos, one of the oldest woodlands in the region, will immerse us in a wild atmosphere with its ancient oaks and sunken paths. Once vast, this forest was already used as a hunting ground in the Middle Ages. All along the route, several streams wind through valleys rich in biodiversity, amidst ferns, mosses, willows and alders. The region’s gentle terrain conceals a geological history dating back millions of years, comprising clay, silt and sand. Set amongst woods, the Flemish countryside, old farmhouses and sunken lanes, this walk promises nature, tranquillity and beautiful views.

This cycle route links the elegant city of Ghent with the North Sea beaches at Ostend. Ideal for an idyllic getaway or as a stage on a cycle tour, this route mainly follows the Ghent–Bruges–Ostend Canal, offering a flat, safe route that is completely free of motor traffic.

A day-long walk along the Scheldt, taking the ferry at Sint-Amands. The walk starts at the church in Puurs, with parking available. The path is completely flat and away from the road network. It’s a relaxing day out that’s perfect for the whole family.

Around De Pinte, the walk takes you through a setting where history and nature complement each other. The Parkbos alternates between young forests, bright meadows and the wet valley of the Rosdambeek, which sometimes overflows between the tree trunks. Further on, the Grand Noble Estate, once linked to St Peter's Abbey, reveals its noble avenues and neoclassical castle, while ancient names such as Nazarethbeek and Rosdam recall farms and hamlets that have disappeared.Heading towards Scheldevelde, you enter an ancient medieval estate marked by the Seven Dreven, star-shaped avenues that lend a solemn charm when the light filters through the beech and oak trees. Alders, willows, flower-filled meadows and dotterbloemen line the waters, while frogs, newts, robins and woodpeckers bring the 'poëls' to life. A hike through changing landscapes, between tranquil nature, aristocratic heritage and little touches of legend.

A very beautiful cycle ride, set in the heart of nature, along the banks of the Scheldt, which you’ll cross twice, using a free bike ferry. 90 per cent of the cycle paths on this route are in a natural setting with virtually no motor traffic – a real immersion in nature. You’ll spot plenty of birds and discover beautiful castles with lovely parks. Halfway along the route, you’ll arrive in Temse, a very pretty little port town. You can grab a bite to eat or a drink and explore the superb church and magnificent belfry.

If you are passing near Hulst, don't hesitate to stop off for a short, healthy walk along the old ramparts and a stroll through the town centre along the inner canal and the Grote Markt.

This walk is not difficult and mostly follows the course of the Molenbeek, allowing you to discover King Baudouin Park, the Ganshoren marsh, Laerbeek Wood, the Jette marsh and Dieleghem Wood.

The route passes Château Bonaventure, then follows the valleys of the Molenbeek and Zijpbeek, once vital to the local mills. The walk crosses King Baudouin Park, the Ganshoren marsh and the Laerbeek and Poelbos woods, rich in wildlife and typical of Brabant landscapes. The unassuming Poelbosbeek further contributes to this natural ecosystem. The Heymbos and Dielegem woods are a reminder of the former presence of the medieval abbey. Further on, the Atomium comes into view, the iconic symbol of Expo ’58, before the route passes through the Royal Domain of Laeken. This is a walk combining nature, history and Brussels’ heritage.

Hike in the western outskirts of the municipality of Anderlecht (near Brussels). The route allows you to discover little-known aspects of this municipality in the vicinity of the hamlet of Neerpede, along the Neerpedebeek stream.

A lovely walk from the city to the countryside. An easy walk, mainly on roads but also along beautiful paths and lanes lined with magnificent houses. On the way back, you pass a very attractive shopping and leisure centre.

A cross-border walk between East Flanders and Hainaut. This route takes in a varied landscape, mainly rural, but also featuring hedgerows and woodland. The terrain remains gentle in this undulating region.

A flat route along the canal to Fauquez. Then the terrain becomes hilly with a steep climb at Charly-des-bois through the Bois de la Houssière. Then the descent begins towards Tubize town centre, and the route remains flat until the return.

A walk between the town and green spaces in the upper part of the municipality of Forest. The route passes through Duden Park, the Messidor garden city, Carré Tillens, the Altitude 100 church and Forest Park, among other places.

Jogging or leisurely stroll to explore Forest and Duden Parks with beautiful gentle slopes. This is a short urban route but entirely on natural terrain, with one roundabout with cars to cross between Forest Park and Duden Park on the way there and back. You can park in the dedicated parking spaces on Avenue des Villas.

A lovely circular walk in the lower part of the municipality of Forest. First, the walk takes you along Rue Kersbeek with its beautiful houses. Next, Brel Park with its remarkable trees and monuments. Then, the Forest Miniature Railway, a miniature railway network located in Bempt Park, in Forest, in the Brussels-Capital Region. Finally, the Forest-Vert garden city is a mixed-use social housing estate in the lower part of Forest, in Brussels. Take a stroll through Bempt Park, near the ponds, and you’ll see ducks swimming in groups. It’ll be a moment of tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of the city. To round off the walk, treat yourself to a delicious artisan ice cream at Tutta Panna – the perfect way to end the walk! As you head towards the station, you can’t miss a lovely, colourful mosaic under the Forest-Est bridge.

The walk passes through Kinsendael Park, Buysdelle Woods, the Artists' Valley, Shaveys Park, Verrewinkel Woods, Fond Roy Park, the Avijl plateau, Kauwberg and Sauvagère Park. Return to the starting point via Kriekenput.