4.3
(3848)
20,227
hikers
27
hikes
Dog friendly hiking trails in Kraenepoel En Markettebossen traverse a landscape characterized by its unique wetland ecosystem, ancient mixed deciduous forests, and diverse natural features. The region centers around the Kraenepoel, a 22-hectare pond known for its specific flora and birdlife, bordered by a dike with beech avenues. Adjacent Markettebossen offers old, acidic forests, remnants of former uncultivated lands. This area provides varied terrain combining water features with woodland settings, suitable for different hiking experiences.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
4.6
(98)
611
hikers
14.8km
03:45
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(152)
944
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(153)
424
hikers
14.2km
03:37
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(40)
240
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(32)
224
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful boardwalk through nature reserve
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Summer, winter, autumn and spring, every season offers something beautiful here
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Please note: often full in good weather
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The Ursel airfield is categorized as a military domain and serves, among other things, as a reserve airfield for the Belgian air component. It was built between 1952 and 1955 at the request of SHAPE (Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe, the central command center of NATO). The reserve airfields of Bertrix-Jehonville, Saint-Hubert, Weelde, Zoersel-Oostmalle and Zutendaal were also set up around the same time as a result of this NATO regulation. Part of the crushed concrete from the B-67 Ursel war airfield, located south of the Urselseweg, was used to build the runway. As a result of the fall of the Iron Curtain and the reduced threat of the Warsaw Pact, Ursel airbase was decommissioned by NATO in 1993. Source: https://www.vliegclubursel.be/nld/vliegveld
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Keep your dog on a leash because before you know it you'll be face to face with a grazing four-legged friend ;)
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Forest management at Maldegemveld is aimed at the conservation and sustainable development of this special nature reserve, located in the province of East Flanders. Maldegemveld is a vast forest area that has an important ecological value, with a varied landscape of forests, heathland and marshy areas. Forest management here focuses on preserving biodiversity, restoring natural habitats and promoting the health of the ecosystem.
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Kraenepoel En Markettebossen offers over 25 dog-friendly hiking trails. These routes vary in length and difficulty, ensuring there's something suitable for every dog and owner.
The region features a diverse natural environment, combining water features with woodland settings. You'll find paths through old, acidic mixed deciduous forests like the Markettebossen, as well as trails around the historic Kraenepoel Pond. The terrain is generally varied, offering engaging routes for you and your dog.
Yes, there are 12 easy dog-friendly routes in Kraenepoel En Markettebossen. These trails are generally shorter and have minimal elevation gain, making them perfect for a relaxed stroll with your dog. An example is the 4.5 km Maldegemveld Nature Reserve – Wooden Boardwalk loop from Maldegemveld.
The dog-friendly trails in Kraenepoel En Markettebossen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 2,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the quiet woodlands, well-maintained paths, and the beautiful natural scenery, making it a favorite spot for walks with canine companions.
Many of the dog-friendly routes in Kraenepoel En Markettebossen are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. For example, the Maldegemveld Nature Reserve – Grazing Cows loop from Maldegemveld is an 8 km circular route.
While hiking with your dog, you can explore the unique wetland ecosystem of the Kraenepoel Pond, known for its rare flora and diverse water birds. You might also encounter historical sites such as Villa Kraenepoel overlooking the pond, or the impressive Church of Our Lady's Nativity (Onze-Lieve-Vrouw-Geboortekerk).
Yes, parking is generally available near the starting points of many trails. For instance, the Maldegemveld Nature Reserve – Wooden Boardwalk loop from Parking POL explicitly mentions a parking area, making it convenient for dog owners to access the trails.
Some trails are accessible via public transport. Bellem station serves as a highlight and rest area, and routes starting from or passing through Bellem could be reached by train. Always check local public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Kraenepoel En Markettebossen is beautiful year-round. Spring offers blooming flora and active birdlife around the pond, while autumn showcases vibrant forest colors. Summer provides pleasant walks through shaded woodlands. Winter can be serene, but be mindful of potentially muddy paths. Always check weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, there are moderate and even difficult dog-friendly routes. For example, the Maldegemveld Nature Reserve – Wooden Boardwalk loop from Parking POL is a moderate 15.8 km hike, offering a more extended experience for you and your dog.
While the trails are dog-friendly, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves like Kraenepoel Pond, to protect local wildlife and rare plant species. Always carry waste bags and clean up after your dog to maintain the natural beauty of the area for everyone.


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