Best lakes around Wortegem-Petegem are primarily natural water bodies, often former river arms, shaped by the Schelde river. This municipality in East Flanders, Belgium, features scenic landscapes with significant ecological and recreational value. The area offers diverse water features that contribute to the region's natural beauty and provide opportunities for outdoor activities.
Last updated: September 30, 2026
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The Machelenput is a beautiful nature and recreation area of about 8 hectares, right next to the village center of Machelen. The quiet, mirror-like meander of the Lys is not only a wonderful place to enjoy the water and nature for a moment, but also carries a special story from Flemish art history. Once, this cut-off bend of the Lys threatened to disappear completely. Just like elsewhere, the river was straightened for shipping, and in the early 70s, there were plans to fill in the Machelenput. But Roger Raveel put a stop to it. The world-famous artist and born-and-bred Machelen resident protested on August 19, 1971, in his own unique way. He had a raft, covered with blue plastic garbage bags and equipped with a large painting, sail across the water. The striking action received national media attention and ensured that the infill plans were eventually halted. Thanks to Raveel's playful art protest, the bend of the Lys was preserved, and the Machelenput is now a green oasis. With the Adventure Island for children and a free self-service ferry boat to the other side, there is also plenty of room for recreation. A place where nature, art, and a touch of idiosyncrasy come together beautifully.
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The two nature reserves, Grootmeers and Kleinmeers, are located along the Scheldt. Grootmeers is approximately 19 ha in size. Kleinmeers is close to the Asper lock and is a relatively small area. The area is freely accessible to walkers from sunrise to sunset. Boots are often necessary in wet periods. In winter, when the water level is high, the path through the Grootmeers (even with boots) is often difficult to walk. Dogs (even those not on a leash) are not allowed, partly because of the free-roaming grazers. Make sure you do not walk between the cows or get too close to the calves. (Natuurpunt)
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Since 1654, the castle domain, located along the Kasteelstraat in Lozer, has been owned by the della Faille d’Huysse family. The beautiful castle was called ‘’t Goed Uplosere’ in the 17th century. The block-shaped castle acquired its current neoclassical appearance during renovations in the 18th century. From the Kasteelstraat you can see the symmetrical rear facade. From the Appelhoekstraat you have a view of the front facade. The 19th century park in English landscape style consists of ponds, winding paths, bridges and appurtenances such as a walled vegetable garden, caretaker’s house, dog kennel, coach house, tower-shaped garden pavilion, farmyard and gatehouse. From the castle domain, a double avenue leads to the O.-L.-Vrouw van Bijstandkerk.
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B & B, for horse lovers. Very beautiful domain, unfortunately not accessible to us, regular hikers.
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These lakes were buried with silt during the widening and deepening of the Scheldt. In the northern part, 1 hectare was excavated to the original level. This is now a swamp zone, with rich vegetation. The 4 hectare Kleinmeers is located a little further north (downstream). Source: https://www.natuurpunt.be/natuurgebied/grootmeers-en-kleinmeers
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This highlight was elsewhere called "Tiegembos". (Meanwhile I suggested merging both highlights)
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The lakes around Wortegem-Petegem are primarily natural water bodies, often former arms of the Schelde river known as 'coupures'. These areas are rich in ecological value, supporting diverse plant and animal life, and offer serene landscapes for nature observation.
Yes, Coupure Deweer is a prime example. It's a cut-off arm of the Schelde river with still waters that maintain a delicate balance for fish, plants, and other organisms. It's part of the larger Avelgemse Scheldemeersen area, known for water-loving plants and managed as a nature reserve by Natuurpunt Avelgem.
Saint Arnoldus Park is an excellent choice for families. It features a man-made lake within a park that includes artificial rocks, ponds, walking paths, and various play options for children. There's also a chapel and picnic facilities.
Absolutely. Lozer Castle is a notable historical site featuring a lake within its domain. This block-shaped castle acquired its neoclassical appearance during 18th-century renovations, offering a glimpse into the region's past amidst a scenic setting.
The region around Wortegem-Petegem offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous trails for hiking, running, mountain biking, and road cycling. For example, there are many MTB Trails, Running Trails, and Road Cycling Routes that often pass by or near these beautiful water features.
Yes, The Grootmeers Nature Reserve, located along the Scheldt, is a great option. It features a swamp zone with rich vegetation and is freely accessible to walkers from sunrise to sunset. Be aware that boots are often necessary during wet periods, and dogs are not allowed due to free-roaming grazers.
Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the lakes, as the weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities and nature observation. However, the natural areas, especially those like Coupure Deweer and Grootmeers, offer unique beauty even in autumn and winter, though some paths might be wet or muddy.
Yes, the Vestingvijver Nature Trail, which features an elongated fortress pond, is categorized as intermediate difficulty. It offers a path between the pond and a railway, showcasing the historical and natural value of the area.
The natural water bodies, particularly the former Schelde river arms like Coupure Deweer and the Avelgemse Scheldemeersen, are rich in biodiversity. You can expect to see various fish, water-loving plants such as marsh marigolds and cuckooflowers, and a diverse array of other organisms that thrive in these delicate ecosystems.
Parking availability varies by location. For popular spots like Saint Arnoldus Park, there are typically designated parking areas. For nature reserves like Coupure Deweer, you might find parking near the Nature House (NEC) of Natuurpunt Avelgem. It's always advisable to check specific location details before your visit.
While specific cafes directly adjacent to every lake might be limited, the broader region of Wortegem-Petegem and its surrounding villages offer various options for refreshments and meals. Some parks, like Saint Arnoldus Park, may have facilities for drinks or picnics during certain periods.
The uniqueness stems from their origin as 'coupures' – cut-off arms of the Schelde river. This geological history has created a distinctive landscape of still or slow-moving water bodies that are integral to the region's ecological balance and offer a tranquil, natural escape within the scenic East Flanders countryside.


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