The best traffic-free bike rides around Deinze

The idyllic Astene Sas is a protected village view and a wonderful place to stop for a while. Babbling water, historic ships, the authentic lock house and one of the last manually operated bascule bridges in Flanders provide a particularly atmospheric setting here. The lock originated in 1860 to avoid a significant detour in the Leie. Cargo ships used to take a whole eight hours to navigate the winding meander between Astene and Bachte. A new, perfectly straight cut of barely 300 meters changed that. The characteristic green-iron bascule bridge dates from 1896 and is still operated by hand during the sailing season. If a boat approaches, you have to wait a moment until the bridge is lifted using pure muscle power. A beautiful piece of living heritage! Literature lovers will also get their money's worth here. The whitewashed lock keeper's house today houses 't Oud Sashuis, a cozy brown café. It is also the birthplace of the mother of Hugo Claus, who spent part of his childhood here. A place where water, heritage and stories come together – ideal for a short break during your cycling or walking tour.

Porta Arboreti; monumental entrance gate and former dovecote belonging to and once forming access to the Ooidonk castle domain, which originates in the 14th century.

The church and cemetery of Deurle.

On the banks of the Leie River, in the heart of picturesque Afsnee, stands St. John the Baptist Church—a historic gem with roots dating back to the 10th century. The church has a Romanesque core from the 12th century and has been renovated and restored several times over the centuries, while retaining its character. Constructed of Tournai limestone, the building features a striking crossing tower and basilica-style nave, giving it a robust yet serene appearance. Inside, you'll find a baptismal font from 1601, a wooden statue of Christ from around 1700, and a beautiful stained-glass window depicting the baptism of Christ. The walled cemetery contains the gravestones of famous Ghent figures, including Count De Hemptinne and painter Karel De Bondt. I've included the dates.

Monument along a cool road

Only cycle path so watch out for oncoming traffic, the slope of the bridge is perfect

The Schipdonk Canal meanders for 56 kilometers from Deinze to Heist, where it flows into the North Sea. The canal serves as both an economic and a natural connection, forming the dividing line between the Meetjesland region, the Leie region, and the sea. The canal's construction in the nineteenth century was one of the first major infrastructure projects in the young Belgium. The canal played a strategic role during both the First and Second World Wars, serving as a key component of the military defenses. Today, it's especially enjoyable (and sometimes challenging) cycling!

The gate also serves as a bridge over the Kalebeek stream. The north facade of the gate (facing the church) features, in addition to the date 1864, the coat of arms of the t'Kint de Roodenbeke family, who acquired the castle that year (and still own it).