Top 20 Lakes around Schilde
Best lakes around Schilde are primarily found within its green spaces, offering tranquil water features rather than large, expansive lakes. The municipality features notable water bodies integrated into historic parklands and nature reserves. These areas provide opportunities for walks and enjoying nature within a serene setting. The landscape around Schilde includes a mix of historic estates and natural areas with water features.
Best lakes around Schilde
- The most popular lakes is Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond, a natural reserve…
Last updated: June 20, 2026
Hoefijzerput
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Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond
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Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond
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Pond at Fort III Borsbeek
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Nature area with water features
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Really beautiful and quiet nature. Surprisingly located behind some industry.
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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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Winding paths lead along the ponds and through the silence area...
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Winter lighting, quiet walking
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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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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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On May 7, 1923, the Rivierenhof opened its gates to the general public. It is the oldest provincial domain in Belgium. Later all other provinces followed suit. History: In 1921 the last noble heirs decided to sell the domain. Thanks to the alert actions of provincial registrar Jozef Schobbens, the province purchased the domain as a green lung for the already 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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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of water features can I expect around Schilde?
Schilde is characterized by tranquil water features within green spaces, rather than large, expansive lakes. You'll find natural fens, man-made park ponds, and historical fort moats, offering diverse environments for walks and enjoying nature.
Are there any historical sites with water features in Schilde?
Yes, the Pond at Fort III Borsbeek is a notable historical site. This brick fort, part of the Antwerp fortification belt, features a pond with views of the Caponiere and offers varied nature exploration via walking routes. It's also an important hibernation site for bats.
Which water features are suitable for families with children?
The Hoefijzerput is very family-friendly, featuring a large sandy area where children can play and an island for building camps. The Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond is also part of a beautiful park with various attractions suitable for families.
What kind of natural environments can I explore around Schilde's water features?
You can explore diverse natural environments. The Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond is a natural reserve with wetlands, characterized by a dynamic system of drying out and rewetting that supports unique fauna and flora. The area around Fort III Borsbeek also offers varied nature.
Are there opportunities for hiking or walking near these water features?
Absolutely. The Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond has winding paths through its silence area, though they can be challenging and require good walking shoes. The Pond at Fort III Borsbeek also has beautiful walking routes. For more extensive options, you can find various MTB Trails around Schilde that often pass by natural areas.
What makes the Rivierenhof a popular spot?
The Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond is part of the oldest provincial domain in Belgium, known for its beautiful man-made park. It offers a serene setting with numerous water features, rest benches, and a variety of attractions, making it a place where visitors can find peace and enjoy the scenery.
What outdoor activities can I do near the water features in Schilde?
Beyond walking and exploring the natural areas, Schilde offers various cycling opportunities. You can find Gravel biking routes, Road Cycling Routes, and MTB Trails around the region, many of which pass by or near these tranquil water features and green spaces.
Is there a specific park in Schilde known for its water features?
Yes, Park Schildehof is a notable municipal domain with a picturesque 'vijver' (pond or small lake) as an integral part of its historic castle estate. It provides a tranquil setting for relaxation and enjoying nature, with ongoing improvements to enhance its appeal.
Are the water features around Schilde accessible for everyone?
Accessibility varies. While some parts of Fort III Borsbeek are accessible for strollers, the nature walk itself is not suitable for wheelchair users or strollers. The paths at Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond are not paved and can be challenging, making buggies and prams difficult to handle. It's advisable to check specific locations for their accessibility details.
What should I know before visiting Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond?
The Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond is a natural reserve with winding, unpaved paths. It's recommended to wear good walking shoes or boots due to the dynamic system of drying out and rewetting. The area is only accessible to walkers, and it's a haven for unique fauna and flora, including various bird species.
Can I find places to rest or picnic near the water features?
Yes, many locations offer amenities for relaxation. The Hoefijzerput has many rest benches and picnic benches. The Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond also features rest benches inviting visitors to linger by the water.
Are there any large lakes in the Schilde region for water sports?
Schilde is not known for large, expansive lakes suitable for extensive water sports. The water features are generally smaller ponds and fens integrated into parks and nature reserves, primarily for scenic enjoyment and walking. Larger lake complexes like the Eau d'Heure lakes are located in other regions of Belgium.
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