Top 20 Lakes around Harelbeke
Best lakes around Harelbeke offers a landscape characterized by significant natural water bodies, primarily centered around Provinciedomein De Gavers. This region features a mix of recreational lakes, nature reserves formed from old sand quarries, and ancient river meanders. These areas provide diverse opportunities for outdoor activities and nature observation. The natural features contribute to the ecological value and recreational appeal of the Harelbeke vicinity.
Best lakes around Harelbeke
- The most popular lakes is Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers, a lake that was created by sand extraction in the 1960s. This large lake is the centerpiece of a 192-hectare recreational area offering swimming, water sports, walking, and cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Saint Arnoldus Park, a forest with ponds, walking paths, and a sunbathing lawn. The park features artificial rocks and a chapel, attracting both pilgrims and nature lovers.
- Visitors also love Coupure Deweer, a cut-off arm of the Scheldt River with stagnant water. This meander supports a delicate balance of fish, plants, and other organisms, making it a significant ecological site.
- Harelbeke is known for recreational lakes, nature reserve ponds, and old river meanders. These offer diverse environments for activities like walking, bird watching, and water sports.
- The lakes around Harelbeke are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 150 upvotes and over 80 photos shared.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
Saint Arnoldus Park
Highlight • Forest
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Bergelen Provincial Domain
Highlight • Natural
In 1996, the farm and the 29 hectares of surrounding agricultural land were purchased by the province, and large parts of the newly acquired area were afforested.
In 1999, the province entered into a lease with the municipality for the management of the Bergelen pit and its surroundings. This created the Bergelen Provincial Estate, which currently covers an area of 47 hectares. The Heulebeek stream flows along and through the estate, still following a largely natural course there.
You'll also find the Bulskamphoeve, first mentioned in Gullegem in 1549. It's a historic farmstead whose horseshoe-shaped buildings are situated within the ramparts. The farmstead was destroyed several times during wartime and subsequently rebuilt or renovated. The current building is believed to date from 1775.
A protected monument, the Meiboom, also stands in the area. This is a group of six lime trees with a large iron cross in the center.
Source: wevelgem.be
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Coupure Deweer
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Sand was piled up on the southern edge of the valley, on which the village centers of Escanaffles and Ruien later emerged. The northern edge, where Avelgem is located, was created after clay was deposited in curved soils or "meersen". The northern and southern valley edges in the Avelgem Scheldemeersen are almost the only places within the valley where habitation is present.
When the Scheldt was straightened for the last time last century, several 'coupures' or cut-off arms were created with stagnant or weakly flowing water. The 'Coupure Deweer' is a wonderful example of this. In the still water of the meander, fish, plants and other organisms maintain a delicate balance. You will also find the Nature House (NEC) of Natuurpunt Avelgem there.
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Bissegem Plage
Highlight • Natural
In a large part of the site, children can romp and play freely. This is also possible in the smallest buffer basin. (info City of Kortrijk)
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Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
The Bergelen Provincial Estate in Wevelgem developed around a 10-hectare artificial sand extraction pit. The sand was used for the construction of the E403 (A17) motorway in the early 1970s. The municipality purchased this pit and surrounding land between 1989 and 1995. Various planting activities and numerous management works (reprofiling the banks, creating a water berm, building observation huts and walls, creating walking paths, constructing a bat shelter, digging ponds, etc.) were carried out by the municipal council. This created a small but very interesting nature reserve. In 1996, the farm and the 29 hectares of surrounding agricultural land were purchased by the province, and large parts of the newly acquired area were afforested. In 1999, the province entered into a lease with the municipality for the management of the Bergelen pit and its surroundings. This created the Bergelen Provincial Estate, which currently covers an area of 47 hectares. The Heulebeek stream flows along and through the estate, still following a largely natural course there. You'll also find the Bulskamphoeve, first mentioned in Gullegem in 1549. It's a historic farmstead whose horseshoe-shaped buildings are situated within the ramparts. The farmstead was destroyed several times during wartime and subsequently rebuilt or renovated. The current building is believed to date from 1775. A protected monument, the Meiboom, also stands in the area. This is a group of six lime trees with a large iron cross in the center. Source: wevelgem.be
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With the realisation of Bissegem Plage, Bissegem will gain an attractive and peaceful location. It will be a beautiful piece of nature of almost 10,000m² (1ha) that will be permanently free from construction. In this way, we will preserve the unique green character along the Leie. This will undoubtedly become one of the most beautiful parts of Bissegem. In this zone, we will set up a water buffer basin. We will collect all the rainwater from the Driekerkenstraat here. It concerns two buffer basins, one of which overflows into the other. They are a maximum of half a metre deep. The largest of the two will never be dry. A jetty (wooden terrace) will partly bridge this basin. Here, everyone can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the passage of large boats. We provide a connection with the cemetery. In a large part of the site, children can romp and play freely. This is also possible in the smallest buffer basin. (info City of Kortrijk)
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The provincial domain De Gavers in Harelbeke and Deerlijk covers 192 hectares and is a popular recreational area with a large lake, created by sand extraction in the 1960s. The domain offers a wide range of activities: swimming, water sports, walking, cycling and an adventure park. In addition, there is a nature reserve where birds hibernate and a flower-rich area managed by Natuurpunt. The domain attracts around 800,000 visitors annually, who enjoy both the natural environment and the extensive recreational facilities.
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Children can also wade in the water here and walk on the planks
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Very nice to walk around the quiet lake, well-maintained path.
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This highlight was elsewhere called "Tiegembos". (Meanwhile I suggested merging both highlights)
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural water bodies can I explore around Harelbeke?
Around Harelbeke, you'll find a variety of natural water bodies, including large recreational lakes, nature reserves formed from old sand quarries, and ancient river meanders. These areas offer diverse environments for outdoor activities and nature observation.
Which lake is best for a wide range of recreational activities?
The Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers is ideal for a wide range of activities. This large lake, created by sand extraction, is the centerpiece of a 192-hectare recreational area where you can enjoy swimming, various water sports, walking, cycling, and even an adventure park.
Are there any nature reserves focused on birdwatching near Harelbeke?
Yes, the De Zavelput Nature Reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching. This old sand quarry has transformed into a rich ecosystem with a water-filled pit, and you can observe birds from an observation hut. Provinciedomein De Gavers also has a nature reserve that serves as a wintering ground for birds.
Where can I find a peaceful spot for nature observation and walking?
For a peaceful experience, visit Coupure Deweer, a cut-off arm of the Scheldt River. Its stagnant water supports a delicate balance of fish, plants, and other organisms, making it a significant ecological site perfect for quiet walks and nature appreciation.
Are there family-friendly lakes or parks with ponds in the Harelbeke area?
Absolutely. Saint Arnoldus Park is a great option, featuring ponds, walking paths, a sunbathing lawn, and a playground for children. Additionally, Bissegem Plage offers a peaceful natural area along the Leie where children can play freely.
What kind of walking and hiking trails are available near the lakes?
You'll find numerous walking and hiking trails. For example, there are easy and moderate routes around the Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers. You can explore more options, including routes like the 'Boardwalk at Gavermeer – De Gavers Lake loop', by checking the Hiking around Harelbeke guide.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Harelbeke?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. Provinciedomein De Gavers offers cycling paths around its lake. For more extensive routes, you can explore options like gravel biking trails in the region. Check the Gravel biking around Harelbeke guide for detailed routes.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Harelbeke?
The lakes and natural areas around Harelbeke are enjoyable year-round. Spring and summer are ideal for water sports and enjoying the lush greenery, while autumn offers beautiful colors for walking. Winter can be a good time for birdwatching, especially at nature reserves like De Gavers, which serves as a wintering ground for birds.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, Saint Arnoldus Park features a chapel and artificial rocks, attracting both pilgrims and nature lovers, reflecting a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The park was constructed after miraculous healings were said to have occurred there.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes and natural areas in Harelbeke?
Visitors frequently praise the well-maintained paths and the quiet atmosphere, especially around the Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers. Many appreciate the diverse activities available, from water sports to peaceful walks, and the opportunities for children to play and explore.
Are there options for running trails near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers various running trails. You can find routes that incorporate the natural beauty of the area, such as those along the Leie River. For specific running paths, refer to the Running Trails around Harelbeke guide.
Is there parking available at the main lake attractions?
Provinciedomein De Gavers, being a popular recreational area, provides parking facilities for visitors. For other specific locations like Saint Arnoldus Park or De Zavelput Nature Reserve, local signage will indicate available parking options.
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