Lakes around Borsbeek are primarily characterized by the historical and ecological significance of the Pond at Fort III Borsbeek. This body of water is an integral part of the Fort III domain, offering a blend of nature, history, and recreational opportunities within the municipality. The area provides diverse flora and fauna, particularly bats, waterfowl, and amphibians, alongside historical architecture. Visitors can explore various hiking trails and recreational areas around these water features.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Kesselse Heide was a popular location for military exercises. It was used successively by the Belgian army (specifically the Achterbist region), during World War II by German soldiers, and in the post-war period by the Allies. Locals would sometimes "play" with the soldiers as children, participating in exercises such as quickly reassembling a weapon. However, from the early 1950s onward, the fun ended: the start of the Korean War and more frequent exercises led to stricter rules. Perhaps for the best, as the soldiers had access to heavy artillery. The heath contained several gun pits, part of the defense line around Nijlen. The famous "Horseshoe Pit" was one of them. This pit was originally circular and was (possibly) dug during the First World War to wash the soldiers' horses. Later, a small land bridge was added, making the island in the middle accessible. For many locals, it served as a beautiful swimming hole and a place for summer recreation.
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Nice story about rivalry between local youth from surrounding villages
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Patience and calm are instructive...
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Winter lighting, quiet walking
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A beautiful place to relax for a while. Great for young and old. We were lucky to see a couple of swans
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It is a beautiful park, with beautiful water features and the Rivierhof castle where you can enjoy a snack and a drink.
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Strikingly, this viewing wall consists largely of iron elements.
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In 1921, the last noble heirs decided to sell the domain. Thanks to the alert actions of provincial registrar Jozef Schobbens, the province bought the domain as a green lung for the then heavily populated Deurne-Borgerhout region where many workers lived. It was hoped that the Rivierenhof would be able to offer them healthy air, relaxation and tranquility. The province expanded the park from 40 to 135 hectares. Ponds were dug, lands were raised, castles were renovated and picturesque shelters were built. Bridges, a rose garden and sports fields were constructed. All this to allow everyone to enjoy the fresh greenery as much as possible. 100 years later, the Rivierenhof is still the most beautiful park in the entire province, where visitors from near and far admire everything this special place has to offer.
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The lakes around Borsbeek are rich in ecological diversity. For instance, the moats of Pond at Fort III Borsbeek are a crucial open water area, serving as a resting and foraging ground for various waterfowl like garganey, tufted duck, and common pochard. It's also vital for amphibians such as toads and frogs, and the fort itself is an important hibernation site for several bat species. You can also find diverse flora and fauna in the Nature area with water features in Rivierenhof.
Yes, the most prominent historical site is Fort III Borsbeek, which dates back to around 1860. The fort's pond is an integral part of its historical moats. Visitors can admire its unique architecture and learn about its significance as part of the Antwerp fortification belt. While underground parts are generally not accessible, guided tours might be available during summer months.
The area around Pond at Fort III Borsbeek offers easy and moderate hiking trails. During summer, the fort hosts a summer bar, entertainment, and disc golf. Cyclists can also integrate the fort into routes like the Brialmontroute. At Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond, you can enjoy hiking trails that wind around the water feature with plenty of rest benches.
Absolutely. Hoefijzerput features a large sandy area where children can play, and an island with a dry vest for building camps, surrounded by rest and picnic benches. The Pond at Fort III Borsbeek also has a play trail for children during the summer months. The Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond is part of a large park that caters to all ages.
For birdwatching, the Birdwatching hide at Hobokense Polder is an excellent spot. This viewing wall, built in 2017, provides opportunities to observe various birds and wildlife on the water surface. It features holes at different heights, making it enjoyable for both young and old visitors. Remember to bring binoculars for the best experience.
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. The area around Pond at Fort III Borsbeek offers beautiful walking routes to discover the varied nature. You can also find numerous hiking trails winding around the Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond. For more extensive options, explore the Running Trails around Borsbeek guide, which includes routes like the 'Forest Path β Fort of Borsbeek loop'.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The Pond at Fort III Borsbeek can be integrated into cycling routes, including the Brialmont route, as it's located at junction 5. For more cycling adventures, check out the Road Cycling Routes around Borsbeek guide or the MTB Trails around Borsbeek for off-road options.
Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of nature, history, and recreation. The ecological significance of the Pond at Fort III Borsbeek, with its diverse wildlife and historical fort, is a major draw. The serene walking paths and opportunities for relaxation at places like Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond are also highly valued by the community.
While some parts of Fort III Borsbeek are accessible for strollers, the nature walk itself is generally not accessible for wheelchair users or strollers due to the terrain.
When visiting the Birdwatching hide at Hobokense Polder, remember to bring binoculars to spot the birds effectively. For Fort III Borsbeek, consider visiting during the summer months when the fort comes alive with a summer bar and entertainment. The Hoefijzerput area is great for families, with plenty of rest and picnic benches.
The Nature area with water features is part of the Rivierenhof, the oldest provincial domain in Belgium. It's known for its abundance of water features, living up to its name. It offers a peaceful setting for quiet strolls and relaxation, providing a green lung for the region with beautiful scenery and historical significance.


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