Top 20 Lakes around Waasmunster
Best lakes around Waasmunster are found in the broader East Flanders region, offering diverse natural landscapes and water bodies. Waasmunster is a municipality in East Flanders, strategically located near the Scheldt river, making it a convenient base for exploring nearby recreational water bodies. The area is characterized by its wetlands, former peat extraction zones, and provincial parks, providing varied outdoor experiences. These natural areas are integrated into extensive cycling and hiking networks, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts.
Best lakes around Waasmunster
- The most popular lakes is Peat Pits of Berlare Broek, a lake that features an alternation between ponds and forests. This area was formed from an old Scheldt meander and is known for its numerous ponds and swampy areas.
- Another must-see spot is Berlarebroek Nature Reserve, a nature reserve with lake features. Visitors can expect various walking and cycling paths through this area, which was formed from an old Scheldt meander and features many water elements.
- Visitors also love Puyenbroeck Provincial Park, a large provincial domain with several ponds. This park offers a range of activities and facilities, including rowing boats and pedalos on its lakes.
- Waasmunster is known for its former peat extraction areas, nature reserves with water, and provincial parks featuring lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies to see and explore, from historical peat pits to large recreational ponds.
- The lakes around Waasmunster are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 230 upvotes and 29 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: September 29, 2026
Donkmeer
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Peat Pits of Berlare Broek
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
The thick layer of peat remained virtually untouched until the second half of the 17th century. Only then did peat begin to be extracted. As part of this peat extraction, the eastern part of the old Scheldt meander was excavated again, transforming the area into a large water surface. It was only finally drained at the beginning of the last century. The vacated land was planted with willows for basket weaving. After the Second World War, poplars were planted for the production of matches. Today, these poplars are gradually being replaced by native tree and shrub species as part of current forest management.
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Berlare Castle Park
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The castle and outbuildings are not open to the public, but the park is.
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Berlarebroek Nature Reserve
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Puyenbroeck Provincial Park
Highlight • Rest Area
There is a large playground, sunbathing areas, a flower park of 23 hectares, a play forest of 10 hectares and a traffic park where children can ride go-carts. There is also an animal park that pays attention to the 'Living Heritage', ancient livestock breeds. You can take a tour through the park with a tourist train. Bicycles and carts can also be rented and rowing boats and pedalos can be rented at the ponds.
MOLA, the provincial mill center in the former Puyenbrug Castle, is also located on the grounds of the provincial domain.
The domain has approximately 150 hectares of forest, with an almost completely contiguous forest area south of the Zuidlede. A permanent breeding wall for birds has also been constructed, which is used by, among others, the sand martin and the bee-eater. An ice cellar was set up as a hibernation place for bats. Some shallow spawning grounds for the fish were created in the ponds.
In 2017 and 2018, Music For Life, Studio Brussel's charity campaign, took place on this domain.
Source: Wikipedia
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Tips from the Community
Walking through a sunken historyDid you know that the idyllic ponds in the Berlare Broek were created by human hands? Where you now enjoy chirping birds and reflecting trees, peat cutters toiled from 1686 onwards to extract precious fuel from the ground. Their back-breaking work in this ancient, cut-off Scheldt meander created more than fifty ponds. A beautiful piece of nature full of history where you can enjoy a wonderful walk through boardwalks and forest paths!
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Nice to walk through with water on both sides.
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If you like water while walking, this is the place for you...
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During the preparation of the works, all areas of the castle and the outbuildings were cleared of "disturbing elements", so that the rooms now show their spaciousness of yesteryear in all their glory. Some interesting notes also emerged that provide a unique view of the history of the castle. This is how they came across the signatures of the craftsmen who worked in the castle in the distant past. Source: https://www.berlare.be/
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In-depth restoration work on the castle has started since May 2023. The historic castle, outbuildings and orangery will be repurposed as the administrative center for municipal services. The works will last two years. The castle park will remain accessible during the works. Although certain parts are currently closed due to the site organization and the safety of visitors. The castle is now barely visible (as my photos show).
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When you leave the information center, keep the lake on your right. The route past the chapel is not worth it unless you like residential areas. Once you reach the green area towards the duck decoy, the walk becomes really beautiful. At the campsite on the other side of the lake it is best to turn around and walk back. As you continue, you walk along the busy road surrounding the lake. Only the green side of the lake is worth it.
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During the end of the last ice age, the Scheldt between Ghent and Dendermonde left behind various fossil meander bends, such as those of Overmere-Donk and the Dam valley in Laarne. About 10,000 years ago, the Overmere meander was cut off. It took thousands of years for the meander to be completely filled by silting processes, after which peat formation took place. The thick layer of peat remained virtually untouched until the second half of the 17th century. Only then did peat begin to be extracted. As part of this peat extraction, the eastern part of the old Scheldt meander was excavated again, transforming the area into a large water surface. It was only finally drained at the beginning of the last century. The vacated land was planted with willows for basket weaving. After the Second World War, poplars were planted for the production of matches. Today, these poplars are gradually being replaced by native tree and shrub species as part of current forest management.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular lakes and water bodies around Waasmunster?
The most popular water bodies and natural areas around Waasmunster include Peat Pits of Berlare Broek, known for its ponds and forests, and Puyenbroeck Provincial Park, a large domain with several recreational ponds. Visitors also highly rate the Berlarebroek Nature Reserve, which features many water elements from an old Scheldt meander.
Are there family-friendly lakes or parks with water features near Waasmunster?
Yes, several options are great for families. Puyenbroeck Provincial Park is a large domain offering a playground, animal park, and opportunities to rent rowing boats and pedalos on its lakes. The Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve also offer accessible walking and cycling paths suitable for families.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
The region boasts diverse natural features. At Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve, you'll find an alternation of ponds and forests, remnants of old Scheldt meanders, and swampy areas. The Kalkense Meersen, a vast wetland area, is characterized by extensive wet, flower-rich grasslands and an old arm of the Scheldt river. The Saleghem Creeks offer a winding string of pools, reed beds, and willow groves.
Where can I go for birdwatching near Waasmunster?
The Kalkense Meersen is an excellent spot for birdwatching, serving as a significant breeding and overwintering ground for various meadow birds like the black-tailed godwit. Rare species such as the spoonbill and kingfisher can also be spotted there. The Saleghem Creeks are also a paradise for breeding birds, including grebes, reed buntings, and water rails. The former peat extraction area near Lokeren is also noted as a bird paradise.
Are there historical sites or unique cultural aspects related to the lakes?
Yes, the region has a rich history tied to its water bodies. The Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve are former peat extraction areas, with their landscape shaped by centuries of human activity. Donkmeer features a historical 'Eendenkooi' (duck decoy) dating back to 1678. The Saleghem Creeks are a result of historical floods during the Eighty Years' War, creating a unique landscape of gullies and pools.
What outdoor activities can I do near these lakes?
You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. The Kalkense Meersen and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve are integrated into extensive cycling and hiking networks. At Donkmeer, you can rent boats and water bikes. Puyenbroeck Provincial Park offers activities like rowing, pedalos, mini-golf, and a BMX track. For more structured routes, explore the hiking trails around Waasmunster or the MTB trails around Waasmunster.
Are there accessible lakes or paths for wheelchairs and strollers?
Yes, Puyenbroeck Provincial Park is noted for being wheelchair accessible and offers various facilities. The Saleghem Creeks also have a loop walking path, part of which is suitable for wheelchairs and strollers, and a visitor center with accessible facilities.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Waasmunster?
Spring and autumn are generally ideal for visiting, offering pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Spring brings blooming wildflowers to areas like Kalkense Meersen, while autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Birdwatching is particularly rewarding during migration seasons. Summer is great for water activities at Donkmeer and recreational parks like Puyenbroeck.
Can I find places to eat or drink near the lakes?
Yes, the banks of Donkmeer are well-known for their charming restaurants and cafes, many specializing in local eel dishes. Puyenbroeck Provincial Park also has facilities available within the domain. For other areas, it's advisable to check local amenities in nearby towns.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and natural areas in this region?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and diverse landscapes. Many enjoy the extensive networks for cycling and hiking, the opportunities for birdwatching, and the blend of active recreation with serene nature observation. The unique ecosystems, historical context, and family-friendly facilities at places like Puyenbroeck Provincial Park also contribute to a highly positive experience.
Are there any specific walking or cycling routes that highlight the water features?
Yes, the Kalkense Meersen is integrated into an extensive cycling and hiking network with over 165 km of walking possibilities, including paths among pollarded willows and along the old Scheldt arm. The Berlarebroek Nature Reserve also offers various walking and cycling paths through its water-rich landscape. You can find specific routes in the hiking guide for Waasmunster and the gravel biking guide for Waasmunster.
Is there parking available at these lake destinations?
Yes, many of the larger natural areas and parks offer parking. For instance, Berlare Castle Park has parking facilities. For specific locations like Kalkense Meersen, popular starting points for walks and bike rides, such as 't Veer in Schellebelle, typically have parking available. It's always recommended to check specific location details before your visit.
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