Old Leie Arm – Assels Trail loop from Deinze

03:28

60.2km

80m

Mountain biking

Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Advanced riding skills necessary. The route includes a crossing by ferry. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: October 1, 2026

This route includes a ferry crossing

Tips

Includes a segment in which cycling is not permitted

After 40.1 km for 69 m

Waypoints

Start point

Train Station

Get Directions

3.82 km

Old Leie Arm

Highlight • River

From the unpaved Maaiegemdijk, you get a beautiful view of a cut-off historical meander of the Leie river. Overhanging weeping willows, calm water, and the perfect reflection make this a delightful spot for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers.

But behind this idyllic spot also lies a special piece of history. Between 1950 and 1970, the meandering Leie was straightened in several places to allow larger ships to pass. This bend was thereby cut off from the main river. Thanks to local nature lovers and activists, the meander was fortunately preserved and escaped being filled in.

Furthermore, for centuries the Leie was the heart of the flax industry. Retting flax gave the water a typical color, and the river grew into the well-known 'Golden River'.

The tranquility, the water, and the special light also made the surroundings popular with artists from the Latem School. They found ample inspiration here in the mysterious landscape of the Maaiegem marshes.

A place where nature, history, and art come together beautifully – and where you naturally linger a little longer.

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14.7 km

Afsnee

Highlight • Settlement

Afsnee is a picturesque village on the banks of the Leie River. Hard to believe: Afsnee is part of Ghent, but not a trace of a big city. The oldest documented mention of the place dates back to the year 697, when the Abbey of St. Peter in Ghent opened a branch here under the name "Afsnis". The name probably refers to the shortening ("afsnijde") of the old Leie curve, the mouth of which is north of the church.

Since then, water has determined life and so the village center is located directly on the river, as are other settlements. You will still find an original, open cultural landscape and some older farms here.

Translated by Google •

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