Best lakes around Wachtebeke, a village in East Flanders, Belgium, are primarily found within the expansive Provinciaal Domein Puyenbroeck. This area features several large ponds and former peat extraction areas now under water, offering diverse natural landscapes. The region's geography includes low-lying areas and swampy characteristics, contributing to a rich natural setting. These water bodies are central to a vast recreational park, providing a variety of outdoor activities.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
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This open water (creek) is a remnant of a military inundation in the fight against the French in the War of the Spanish Succession - period 1701–1713. By breaching this dike, the polders behind it around Koewacht were flooded. When restoring the dike, they went around the deepest part of the stream channel.
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When you think of nature in Lokeren, you immediately think of the Molsbroek! It is the largest protected nature reserve (more than 80 hectares) in the region. Many visitors seek out the peaceful watery landscape. Enjoy at your own pace.
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Cycling along two nature reserves: Molsbroek and the Buylaerts...
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Just a fifteen minute walk from Lokeren station you are already in this 20 hectare nature reserve on the left bank of the Durme. It also merges into the spontaneously overgrown Verloren Bos with its remnants of drifting dunes.
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When you think of nature in Lokeren, you often think of the Groot Molsbroek. It is a fairly large nature reserve (122 hectares) by Flemish standards, with optimal accessibility. The walking dike offers a beautiful view of the diverse nature: an extensive marshland with numerous water birds, alder swamps, river dunes, reed fields and wet grasslands. On the walking dike you will find 8 information boards, 3 free to use fixed binoculars, a 24/7 information point, a viewing box with stereo slides, an insect garden with a barefoot path and in the winter a viewing wall at the winter feeding place.
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The Buylaers is a nature reserve located on the river Durme, managed by vzw Durme, in the center of the Belgian city of Lokeren. The nature reserve consists mainly of marshy reed fields. Every year a pair of storks comes to breed on the stork pole.
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The Buylaers is a nature reserve located on the river Durme, managed by vzw Durme, in the center of the Belgian city of Lokeren. The nature reserve consists mainly of marshy reed fields. Every year a pair of storks comes to breed on the stork pole.
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The Groote Gat near Koewacht is a remnant of a creek that reminds of a dike breach in the distant past. The water in the creek is fresh, unlike most creeks in Zeeland that have brackish or even salt water.
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The lakes, particularly within Puyenbroeck Provincial Park, offer a wide range of activities. You can rent rowing boats and pedalos on the ponds, explore extensive walking and cycling trails, or enjoy the large playgrounds and animal park. The domain also features sports facilities and picnic spots.
Yes, the lakes around Wachtebeke are very family-friendly. Puyenbroeck Provincial Park is a prime example, offering playgrounds, an animal park, and safe boating activities. The walking dike Along the former peat extraction area is also noted as family-friendly, providing easy access to nature.
The region is characterized by low-lying areas, former peat extraction zones, and swampy landscapes. You'll find diverse natural settings, including marshland, reed fields, wooded areas, and habitats for numerous water birds. Highlights like Along the former peat extraction area showcase extensive marshland and diverse flora and fauna.
Absolutely. The area around Wachtebeke offers various hiking trails. For example, you can find easy loops like the 'Small loop in Puyenbroeck hiking trail' or more moderate options such as the 'Donkey and Foal Sculpture – Zuidlede loop from Provinciaal Domein Puyenbroeck'. You can explore more hiking routes in the Hiking around Wachtebeke guide.
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. The provincial domain and surrounding areas feature numerous paths suitable for road cycling and mountain biking. You can find routes like the 'Moervaart in Wachtebeke – Moervaart Canal Path loop' for road cycling or 'Heidebos Singletrack – Kloosterbos loop' for MTB. Discover more options in the Road Cycling Routes around Wachtebeke and MTB Trails around Wachtebeke guides.
The Groote Gat is a 17-hectare nature reserve near Koewacht, notable as a remnant of a creek formed by a dike breach. Unlike many regional creeks, its water is fresh, making it a unique habitat for waterfowl and a popular spot for recreational fishing.
Yes, Puyenbroeck Provincial Park hosts an animal park focusing on 'Living Heritage' with ancient livestock breeds. Additionally, natural areas like Along the former peat extraction area and De Buylaers Nature Reserve are excellent for birdwatching, with diverse water birds and even breeding storks at De Buylaers.
Puyenbroeck Provincial Park offers extensive amenities, including ample free parking, food areas, picnic spots, and wheelchair-accessible trails. You'll also find bike rentals, a large playground, sports facilities, and even a tourist train for exploring the domain.
Fishing is permitted in certain areas. For instance, the Groote Gat is known as an excellent place for recreational fishermen. The Bosdam Pond within Puyenbroeck also has designated fishing spots, offering a peaceful environment.
The Bosdam Pond is a beautiful, large pond located within Puyenbroeck Provincial Park, featuring an island in its center. It's known for its tranquil atmosphere, natural banks, and several quiet fishing spots. It's also a pleasant place for a walk, with benches available to enjoy the view.
Yes, De Buylaers Nature Reserve, located on the river Durme, is primarily composed of marshy reed fields. It's a significant habitat for birds, including a pair of storks that breed there annually. It also features spontaneously overgrown areas like the Verloren Bos with its remnants of drifting dunes.
The lakes are enjoyable year-round, but spring and summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities like boating, hiking, and cycling. Autumn provides beautiful scenery with changing foliage, while winter can offer peaceful, crisp walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.


Still not found your perfect lake around Wachtebeke? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.