Attractions and Places To See in Fondatie Van Boudelo - Top 7
Best attractions and places to see in Fondatie Van Boudelo include a diverse nature reserve located in the Belgian municipalities of Sint-Niklaas and Stekene. This area features a variety of landscapes, such as ponds, forests, and hay meadows, recognized as one of the last quiet areas in East Flanders. The reserve also holds historical significance, with its lands once belonging to the Boudelo Abbey and bordered by the ancient Stekense Vaart canal. It offers a blend of natural beauty and…
Last updated: July 5, 2026
Stekense Canal
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Frans Coppens Bridge
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The Koebrug - Koebrugstraat
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The Koebrugstraat owes its name to 'De Koebrug'. This bridge provided the connection between Stekene and Sinaai. The name suggests that it has something …
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Reynaert Sculptures and Benches at the Vaart
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Towpaths Along Stekense Vaart and Molenbeek
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The wooden arch bridge over the Stekense Vaart, named after Frans Coppens, was receiver-clerk in the municipality of Sinaai for almost a quarter of a century. He played an important role in "de Groote Watering van Sinay", the name given to the project launched by the Boerenbond in 1926. This project was initiated after repeated floods and aimed to make the polders 'dry'. The construction of the pumping station near Hondsnest was one of the first achievements within this project. During the Second World War, the unemployed were employed to clean or widen ditches. Under the impetus of dike reeve Jozef "meester" Maes and... receiver-clerk Frans Coppens (!), major reclamation works were carried out in the 60s, continuing into the following decades. Thus, Hondsnest got a new pumping station in 1975. In the meantime, the watering area had been converted into a polder, pursuant to the polder law of June 3, 1957. source: info file "Polder Daknam-Sinaai"
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Stekene towpath. Quiet cycling next to the water
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Very nice to cycle along, very relaxing
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A bridge with a historical charge. The Koebrugstraat owes its name to 'De Koebrug'. This bridge provided the connection between Stekene and Sinaai. The name suggests that it has something to do with cows, but this is not the case. The original name was 'Kooibrug'. It refers to the duck decoy of Boudelo. A duck decoy is a large pond where various types of wild ducks were caught for consumption. At the end of the Second World War, the Germans destroyed the original Koebrug. Due to the limited resources of the municipal government, this bridge was not rebuilt and a permanent raised bridge was built in its place. In the early 1900s, there was a hotel for skippers in Klein-Sinaai. This was located at the Koebrug: 'Hotel La Grande Europe'. When skippers had to wait for the right tide, they could spend the night there. During the First World War, the German occupier provided a guard post at the Koebrug. The Germans literally and figuratively occupied the Koebrug. The guard post was housed in the hotel.
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The pumping station at the Frans Coppens Bridge serves to pump excess water from the lower surrounding area into the canal.
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It is well worth stopping on top of the bridge. The view from the Stekense Vaart looks like a landscape painting. The bridge is named after honorary citizen Frans Coppens from Klein-Sinaai. As receiver-clerk he made a great contribution in his career. The canal used to be an important connection between the Dutch Hulst and Ghent.
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nice view of the canal not too many buildings nice in the fields
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The rest area is located in the quiet area on the border with Stekene, at a junction of cycling and walking routes. Seven benches, a picnic table, and seven Reynaert statues are now available. Seven Reynaert benches were installed, each featuring quotes from the epic poem. The benches were created by Van Dal woodworking company. The seven statues are by Gino Geeraerd, whose studio is located nearby.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique natural features can I discover in Fondatie Van Boudelo?
Fondatie Van Boudelo is home to diverse habitats including ponds, coppices, mixed deciduous forests, and hay meadows. It's particularly known for its natural pools, which are a significant haven for dragonflies, with over 35 different species recorded. The varied biotopes also support rich birdlife, including species like the buzzard, black woodpecker, and kingfisher.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in the area?
Yes, the region has historical significance. The name "Fondatie van Boudelo" itself is derived from the Boudelo Abbey, which once owned these lands. You can also explore the Stekense Canal, dug in 1315, which played a crucial role in transportation and trade. The Liniedreef, an enchanting trail lined with beech trees, also references "De Linie," a historical defense line from past wars.
Where can I find the best views of Fondatie Van Boudelo?
For panoramic views, visit the Observation Tower in Benfeld Nature Reserve. This 8-meter-high tower offers expansive vistas of the surrounding nature and is equipped with free binoculars for wildlife observation. Additionally, the Frans Coppens Bridge provides beautiful views of the Stekense Vaart, often described as a landscape painting.
What walking routes are available in Fondatie Van Boudelo?
The reserve features well-marked walking paths, connecting to a network of walking nodes. A popular signposted route covers 9.2 km, highlighting the most beautiful spots. There are also routes of about 6.5 kilometers starting at the Liniedreef. For more options, you can explore various routes for cycling or gravel biking in the wider Fondatie Van Boudelo area.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Fondatie Van Boudelo?
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. The Observation Tower in Benfeld Nature Reserve is a great spot for all ages, offering binoculars for wildlife spotting. Walking and cycling paths along the Stekense Canal are also very family-friendly. The Reynaert Sculptures and Benches at the Vaart provide a fun and engaging stop with unique artwork and picnic opportunities.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?
Fondatie Van Boudelo is a haven for wildlife. Its natural pools attract a significant number of dragonflies, including rare species like the willow emerald damselfly. The diverse habitats also support numerous breeding birds, such as buzzards, black woodpeckers, and kingfishers. Keep an eye out for these species during your visit.
What do visitors enjoy most about the <a href="https://www.komoot.com/highlight/3305174" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Stekense Canal</a>?
Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty of the Stekense Canal. Both banks are recognized as a quiet area, offering expansive views. Cycling or walking along the canal is highly recommended for its relaxing atmosphere and the surprising natural images it offers. It's considered a great way to de-stress and enjoy the outdoors.
Are there any unique bridges or structures in the area?
Yes, you can find the Frans Coppens Bridge, which offers beautiful views of the Stekense Vaart. Another notable structure is The Koebrug, which has a rich history, with its name referring to a duck decoy and its past as a strategic point during wartime.
What cycling opportunities are available near Fondatie Van Boudelo?
The area around Fondatie Van Boudelo offers excellent cycling opportunities. You can find various routes for touring bicycles, including easy loops like the "Frans Coppensbrug – Frans Coppens Bridge loop from Sinaai" (17.4 km). For those interested in off-road adventures, there are also gravel biking and road cycling routes, with options ranging from moderate to difficult.
What is the best time to visit Fondatie Van Boudelo for nature observation?
The reserve offers beauty year-round, but late spring and summer are ideal for observing dragonflies around the natural pools. Birdlife can be enjoyed throughout the year, with different species present depending on the season. The varied landscapes, from forests to hay meadows, provide scenic views in any season.
Are there any specific art installations or unique resting spots?
Yes, you can find the Reynaert Sculptures and Benches at the Vaart. This rest area features seven benches with quotes from the Reynaert epic poem and seven statues by artist Gino Geeraerd, providing a unique cultural touchpoint amidst the natural scenery.
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