Top 20 Lakes in Flanders
Lakes in Flanders, the northern region of Belgium, offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features both natural and artificial lakes, providing settings for various outdoor activities. These bodies of water are often surrounded by greenery, making them popular for nature observation and active pursuits. Flanders' lakes contribute to its appeal as a destination for those seeking natural escapes.
Best lakes in Flanders
- The most popular lakes is Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), a cycle_way that offers a unique cycling experience through a pond. The path allows cyclists to ride at eye level with the water, providing a distinctive view of the surrounding nature.
- Another must-see spot is Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a bridge. This floating pontoon bridge provides a 360-degree view of the landscape between the iconic Eisden tailings, connecting the area's natural beauty with its industrial heritage.
- Visitors also love Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen, a bridge. This floating structure allows cyclists to traverse the Grote Plas, offering views of the green slag heaps and the surrounding national park.
- Flanders is known for its natural and artificial lakes, as well as unique cycling paths over water. These lakes provide opportunities for tranquil walks, watersports, and exploring the region's varied landscapes.
- The lakes in Flanders are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3200 upvotes and over 1600 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
Cycling Through the Water
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Zwin Nature Reserve
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Further information can be found on the nature park's website: zwin.be
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The Zwin
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Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower
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Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes
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View of the Quarry and Lake at Mechelse Heide
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View of the Grote Plas from Terhills
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Lommel Sahara
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Commandery of Sint-Pieters-Voeren
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The place is known for its coming. Daniel de Fouron donated the castle and the surrounding land to the order commander of Alden Biesen Castle when he joined the Teutonic Order on June 25, 1242.
From this point on, Sint-Pieters-Voeren was a direct fiefdom of the empire. The Grand Master exercised jurisdiction. He appointed mayors, lay judges, judicial officers, bailiffs and issued police ordinances and municipal law.
Until the French Revolution, the castle belonged to the order of knights. At the beginning of the 17th century, the current building was built in the Maasland Renaissance style.
In the park of the castle is the source of the Voer, which feeds the ponds of the oldest fish farm in Belgium and the Voer with water (approx. 4,000 liters / minute). Trout and sturgeon are hand-raised in the ponds, just as they were more than a century ago. Fish farm products can be enjoyed directly at the castle pond.
Opposite the coming one is the church of Sint-Pieters-Voeren. The small village church of Sint-Pieters-Stoelkerk was built around 1660 on behalf of commander Willem Quaedt van Beek. His tombstone is right at the entrance to the walled cemetery that surrounds the church.
Outside the village, in the direction of Sint-Martens-Voeren, stands the Sint-Annakapel (St. Anna Chapel), built around 1730 and listed as a historical monument.
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Footbridge over the Weefberg Pond
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Tips from the Community
The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
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The Commanderie is a textbook example of the Maasland Renaissance style, recognizable by: brick construction combined with Namur stone; straight, symmetrical volumes; decorative tiers of brick; a closed, almost monastic courtyard.
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From this vantage point in the Mechelse Heide, you have a magnificent view of the green fields, rolling hills, and the lake nestled in the heart of the nature reserve. The view combines landscape and water, creating a uniquely atmospheric and photogenic panorama. The lake was created as part of the Mechelse Heide nature management program and provides a valuable habitat for waterfowl, amphibians, and other water-loving animals. Grasslands and hedgerows surround the water, giving the area character and lending the landscape a typical Voeren charm.
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Beautiful historic location, worth a stop.
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Commanderie Castle is one of the most historically significant buildings in the region. Its origins date back to the Middle Ages: as early as the 13th century, a settlement of the Teutonic Knights existed here, from which the name "Commanderie" is derived. The castle was not only a stately residence but also an administrative and economic center for the surrounding lands. The complex is surrounded by a moat and has been rebuilt and expanded several times over the centuries. A characteristic feature is the combination of medieval foundations with later Renaissance and Baroque elements. Particularly striking are the picturesque courtyard, the historic farm buildings, and the castle grounds surrounded by avenues and meadows. After the end of the Order's rule, the property passed into private hands and was used for agricultural purposes for a time. Today, Commanderie Castle is privately owned but parts of it are used for cultural and tourist activities. The castle represents the eventful history of the border region between Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany and reflects the influence of religious orders of knights on the cultural landscape of this region.
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super wide view also over the excavation
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One of my favorite places in the area.
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A bridge provides a connection between two banks. Usually a bridge is over water: a ditch, a canal, moat, river, lake, ravine, ...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes in Flanders?
Flanders' lakes offer diverse natural landscapes. You can find serene environments with lush greenery and vibrant flora, ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, such as around Donkmeer Lake. Areas like the Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes feature unique combinations of lakes, sand dunes, and heathland. Many lakes are surrounded by forests and offer scenic viewpoints, like the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower, providing panoramic views over ponds and forests.
Are there opportunities for watersports at Flanders' lakes?
Yes, several lakes in Flanders are popular for watersports. Schulensmeer Lake in Limburg is a hub for activities like windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing. The Lake of Genval also offers boating, kayaking, and fishing. Donkmeer Lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing in a peaceful setting.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Many lakes in Flanders are family-friendly. Vosselare Put, near Ghent, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering designated swimming areas, sandy shores, and picnic facilities. Highlights like Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk) and the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge are also popular with families for their unique and engaging experiences.
Can I go hiking or cycling near the lakes in Flanders?
Absolutely. The areas around Flanders' lakes are well-suited for both hiking and cycling. Donkmeer Lake and Vosselare Put offer surrounding trails for hiking and cycling. Schulensmeer Lake is a starting point for several cycling paths. For more detailed routes, you can explore guides like Easy hikes in Flanders or Running Trails in Flanders, which include routes near lake areas such as the Mechelse Heide.
Are there any unique cycling experiences around the lakes?
Flanders is renowned for its innovative cycling paths. You can experience Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), where you ride at eye level with the water. Another unique experience is the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge offering 360-degree views between iconic tailings. Similarly, the Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen allows you to traverse the Grote Plas with views of green slag heaps.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Flanders?
The lakes in Flanders can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful scenery as nature changes. Summer is ideal for watersports and swimming, especially at lakes like Vosselare Put. Even in winter, the peaceful environments can be appealing for tranquil walks.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes are close to historical or cultural points of interest. The Lake of Genval, for instance, is known for the historic Château du Lac along its shores. The area around the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge connects the region's natural beauty with its industrial mining heritage.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Many lake areas in Flanders offer amenities for visitors. Donkmeer Lake has delightful cafes serving local delicacies. The Lake of Genval is lined with luxurious hotels and charming cafes, perfect for enjoying Belgian cuisine with scenic views. Vosselare Put also provides picnic amenities.
Are there any dog-friendly options for walks around the lakes?
While specific dog policies can vary by location, many natural areas and trails around the lakes in Flanders are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific park regulations before visiting with your dog.
Where can I observe wildlife, especially birds, around the lakes?
Schulensmeer Lake is a significant sanctuary for numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Donkmeer Lake is also a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers due to its peaceful environment and lush greenery. The Zwin Nature Reserve, which includes lake areas, is another prime location for observing diverse wildlife.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in Flanders?
Visitors frequently praise the unique experiences, such as cycling at eye level with the water at Cycling Through the Water. The panoramic views from spots like the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower and the serene beauty of the natural landscapes are also highly appreciated. The combination of active pursuits and tranquil escapes makes the lakes a popular destination.
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