Top 20 Lakes around the Steldt

The Schelde region features a diverse mosaic of wetlands, floodplains, and former river meanders. You'll find dynamic tidal river landscapes with mudflats and salt marshes, as well as tranquil areas with floral meadows, lily ponds, and alder forests. Ecologically significant areas like the Kalkense Meersen and the Polders of Kruibeke showcase these varied environments, shaped by the ebb and flow of the Schelde River and flood control initiatives.

Yes, the Schelde basin is a haven for diverse wildlife, especially birds. Areas like the Scheldt Valley National Park, Kalkense Meersen, and the Polders of Kruibeke are known for marsh harriers, kingfishers, great egrets, bluethroats, and sedge warblers. The Birdwatching hide at Hobokense Polder is specifically designed for this activity, offering excellent views of the local avian population.

Many areas around the Schelde are suitable for families. The Kalkense Meersen, Polders of Kruibeke, and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve offer accessible paths and natural beauty. De Gavers Provincial Domain, though not directly on the main Schelde, is a large recreational area with a lake, offering swimming, water sports, and an adventure park, making it very popular with families.

The region has several historical points of interest. You can visit Berlare Castle Park, which features a castle and gardens. The Rupelmondse Kreek is a historic site formed by a dike breach in 1715, now a beautiful nature reserve. The broader Scheldt Valley National Park also encompasses picturesque villages and historic towns.

While swimming in the main Schelde river is not recommended, several lakes in the broader basin offer water sports and swimming. The Lacs de l'Eau d'Heure, Belgium's largest lake complex, is a major attraction for fishing, kayaking, diving, and jet skiing. De Gavers Provincial Domain also provides opportunities for swimming and various water sports.

The Schelde region offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore the easy hikes around the Steldt, which include trails like the Doornhammeke Route and the Battle of Gavere Trail. Areas like the Scheldt Valley National Park and Kalkense Meersen have extensive walking route networks, allowing you to discover scenic landscapes and wetlands.

Absolutely. Cycling is a popular activity throughout the Schelde region. You can find various routes, including road cycling routes and gravel biking trails. The Scheldt Valley National Park offers miles of biking trails, and the Veerse Meer in the Netherlands is known for its beautiful cycle paths with scenic lake views. The Kalkense Meersen also has extensive cycling opportunities.

The Schelde lakes can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings floral splendor to areas like Paardeweide Wetlands. Summer is ideal for water sports and outdoor activities at recreational lakes like De Gavers. Autumn offers beautiful scenery as foliage changes, and winter can provide tranquil, crisp conditions for walking, especially in areas like the Scheldt Valley National Park.

Beyond the well-known spots, the Schelde basin holds several quieter natural areas. Hingenewiel and Coupure Deweer are examples of smaller, ecologically significant lakes or natural monuments. Lippenbroek, a controlled flood area, offers an educational path to understand local nature, with surrounding areas great for cycling and bird-spotting.

Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty of the Schelde lakes. They appreciate the vastness of the landscapes, the abundance of birds, and the unique combination of land and water. Many enjoy the feeling of peace while cycling through areas like the Kalkense Meersen, where water constantly interacts with the land, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

The floodplains, such as the Polders of Kruibeke and Paardeweide Wetlands, are integral to the Sigma Plan, designed to protect inhabited areas from flooding. These areas are intentionally flooded during high water levels, creating temporary lakes. When the water recedes, they reveal rich mudflats, salt marshes, and fertile vegetation, providing vital habitats for wildlife and contributing to natural water purification.

Yes, the region offers several excellent viewpoints. From the Scheldt dike, you often have beautiful views over landscapes like the Kalkense Meersen. The View of ‘slack tide’ or ‘still water’ highlight specifically points out a scenic spot. Additionally, the Birdwatching hide at Hobokense Polder doubles as a great spot for observing the lake and its inhabitants.