Flandre-Orientale walks

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.

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.

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.

Discover the banks of the Bovenschelde, in the heart of the beautiful De Donk site, where water and land still tell their ancient stories. Here, geology and landscape come together to offer an authentic and peaceful natural environment.