Easy hikes and walks around Dendermonde

The former tidal water mill on the Oude Durme in Hamme is a historical gem with a rich history. Located in the beautiful Durmemeersen, this unique location has been transformed from a water mill into a popular catering establishment.

Kijktoren Schellebelle; a viewing platform at the intersection of Tragelweg and Blokstraat offers you a unique view of the Kalkense Meersen. At this point, the Tragelpad with the old Scheldearm meets the Blokstraat, forming the nerve center of the recreational routes.

In light of the Passion narrative of Jesus Christ—which ends in the apparent powerlessness of the cross, but finds its Easter fulfillment in the glorious resurrection from the dead—Karl Cardinal Lehmann writes the following in an article entitled “Power and Service”: “Ultimately, however, he takes this service seriously in the offering of his life unto death on the cross. Everything ultimately finds its final and deepest foundation in the reference to the prophetic proclamation of Isaiah, which Jesus here makes his own: ‘For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many’ (Mark 10:45; cf. Isaiah 53:10–12). To give his life as a ransom for many—this is the mission and the cause of Jesus. This is something he can only mean for himself. This phrase underscores the uniqueness of Jesus’ service of self-sacrifice.” This unique service of the Son of God also applies to us, the people of today, almost two millennia after his death on the cross – and its overcoming through the resurrection. And each of these small sacred monuments that we encounter on our journey – as here on site – keeps the memory of this alive.

This church in the village of Vlassenbroek – built without a steeple but with a roof turret above the intersection of the nave and transept – was dedicated to Saint Gertrude of Nivelles. In the Rhineland, she is known – and this is by no means meant disrespectfully – as the "Mouse Saint," since in the Middle Ages she was invoked primarily against those pests that constantly helped themselves to the food supplies in the house and barn.

The Calvary, the crucifix of former pastor Stuyver in Vlassenbroek, has been restored. The statue was damaged during a severe spring storm in 2015. The artwork consists of a stone crucifix with the figure of Christ, in front of which a stone altar was placed on masonry. It is a work by Rev. Valéry Stuyver, sculptor and pastor of Vlassenbroek from 1956 to 1982. Today, it is the only remaining artwork by this eminent artist and pastor of Vlassenbroek outside the church. (Facebook group "You are from Bostroë as...")

A bench with information about beavers 🦫. Interesting to read, and children can look into/crawl into this replica beaver lodge. You can also just sit on the bench. A little further towards the Scheldt, there's another bench with information about beavers.

Tucked away in a meander of the Scheldt River, the village welcomes thousands of hikers, cyclists, and bon vivants every year. The Gothic St. Gertrude's Church, visible from the Scheldt banks, towers over the landscape and is an iconic sight. It's open to the public every Sunday in July and August. Did you know that Vlassenbroek is also a uniquely creative village? This artists' village has a magnetic pull on anyone who loves art and beauty. In these narrow streets, you'll discover a rich collection of works by sculptors and painters. The picturesque surroundings must have something to do with it. It's the perfect place to get lost. (Scheldeland)

An easy-to-walk, wide path along the dike with a view of the Vlassenbroekse polder. It is partially paved.