4.4
(1091)
75,604
runners
886
runs
Jogging routes around Handelsdok feature redeveloped quays and dedicated waterside paths, providing ample space for runners along the water. The area incorporates green zones and allows for riverside running along the larger network of waterways in Ghent. Joggers can experience a blend of industrial heritage with modern urban design, offering interesting visual elements and architectural interest.
Last updated: October 7, 2026
5.0
(3)
299
runners
8.50km
00:53
20m
20m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
246
runners
10.9km
01:08
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

4.7
(3)
194
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
123
runners
6.14km
00:38
10m
10m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
117
runners
8.66km
00:54
30m
30m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Louisa d'Havé (Ghent, 13 July 1894 – Brussels, 20 July 1966) was a Belgian spy who, during World War I, delivered secret German military information and objects from occupied Belgium to the Belgian Military Intelligence Service. When the Belgian army warned its infantry units on 16 April 1915 of a German gas attack, it was largely thanks to the information and objects she had smuggled, including a prototype of the first German gas mask. The first German gas attack actually took place a week later, on 22 April 1915.
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The Leie is a river that flows through France and Belgium. It originates in the municipality of Lisbourg, in the French department of Pas-de-Calais, generally flows in a northeasterly direction and, after a total of around 202 kilometers, flows into the Scheldt as a left tributary in the city area of Ghent, in the Belgian province of East Flanders. Of the total length of the Leie, around 109 kilometers flow through Belgian territory, and for a length of around 24 kilometers, the river now forms the border between Belgium and France.
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Since 1909, the Sint-Jorisbrug has spanned the Lys between Sint-Joriskaai and Dampoortstraat. Its peculiar, non-perpendicular course earned it the popular nickname 'Kemelbrücke'. In 1908, it was written that the Sint-Joris Bridge was to become the widest bridge in Europe. It replaced three neighboring bridges, which were demolished after construction and of which remains can still be found. To the north, precisely in the axis of the Steendam, was the old Sint-Jorisbrug, then a swing bridge. To the south lay the Pasbrug, a fixed footbridge, and the Rode Torenbrug, a metal swing bridge. Source: https://stad.gent/nl/cultuur-vrije-tijd/wandelen-en-fietsen-gent/bruggenwandeling#117321
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The St.-Joris Bridge, also known as the Kemel Bridge due to its hump-shaped appearance, has been located at Portus Ganda since 1907. It is situated between the Steendam and the Dampoortstraat, where the Lys and the Scheldt rivers flow into the Napoleon De Pauwvertakking, also known as Pauwvaardeken or Pauwkanaal.
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Once filled in to make way for the almighty car, the Lower Scheldt has today been restored to its former glory. Bridges and parks, cozy street cafés and a wonderfully restored Art Deco swimming pool form one of Ghent's most beautiful (new) little corners. A red-necked girl sits on a wooden structure in the water near the Van Eyck swimming pool. The locals have nicknamed her 'the Ghent Lorelei'. The girl with the headphones is a work by sculptor Johan Meirlaen, who used a small boat one night to place the sculpture on the wooden pier. In the early days, no one knew who the artist behind the work was, but Johan Meirlaen's red girl is now an integral part of Portus Ganda. Drop anchor at Portus Ganda, less than a kilometer from the city center. You will find all the necessary facilities in the magnificent Van Eyck swimming pools. Source: https://visit.gent.be/en/see-do/portus-ganda#read-more
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Portus Ganda is the nautical gateway to the city of Ghent, located at the historic confluence of the Rivers Scheldt and Leie near the city center. The port is designed as a transit port, which is why the water tourist (even in high season) has the best guarantee here of being able to go ashore directly from their boat. Portus Ganda comprises around 100 berths for a variety of motorboats. You are in the right place for a single overnight stay as well as for a whole holiday, a few places are reserved for longer stays.
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0
without cars and partly unpaved
1
0
The Louisa d’Havé Bridge is a sleek, modern bicycle and pedestrian bridge that connects the banks of the Scheldt River. Its open steelwork and soft curves give the bridge an almost floating appearance above the water. From the center, you have a clear view of the quays, residential areas, and the gentle flow of the Scheldt.
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There are over 800 running routes available around Handelsdok, offering a wide variety of options for all skill levels. The komoot community has explored more than 70,000 routes in this area.
The running paths in Handelsdok primarily feature wide concrete and paved surfaces along redeveloped quays and waterside paths. You'll find dedicated spaces for runners, often integrated with green zones, providing a smooth and refreshing environment for your run.
Yes, Handelsdok offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and modern urban design. While jogging, you can enjoy views of contemporary architecture, historical elements like old mooring chains, and even specific highlights such as the Street Art at Oude Dokken or the Blue Crane at Dok Noord. The area is also known for beautiful sunsets over the open spaces.
While specific routes are not explicitly marked as 'family-friendly' in the data, the redeveloped quays and wide, paved waterside paths make many routes suitable for families. The incorporation of green zones and nearby areas like Houtdok, which features a public park, offer pleasant environments for a family run. Routes like the Cycle path along Seingeverspark – Gaardenierspad loop from Sint-Amandsberg are mostly on cycle paths and through green zones, which can be enjoyable for families.
The Handelsdok area, with its public quays and green spaces, generally allows dogs, but it's always recommended to keep them on a leash, especially in urban and redeveloped areas. Specific rules for off-leash areas might vary in adjacent parks like Houtdok, so always look for local signage.
As Handelsdok is part of Ghent's urban regeneration, parking options are typically available in designated public parking garages or on-street parking areas within the wider Oude Dokken district. It's advisable to check local Ghent parking regulations and available facilities near your intended starting point.
Handelsdok is well-integrated into Ghent's public transport network. Various bus and tram lines serve the Oude Dokken district, making it easily accessible from different parts of the city. Check the local public transport provider's website for the most current routes and schedules to plan your journey.
Yes, many of the running routes around Handelsdok are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Louisa d'Havé Bridge – Strop Bridge loop from Ghent is a moderate 8.7 km circular route that offers a great running experience.
Running routes in Handelsdok vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter loops, but many popular routes range from approximately 5 to 12 kilometers. For instance, the Cycle path along the Buitensingel loop from Ghent is about 6.1 km, while the St. Michael's Bridge – Saint Bavo's Cathedral loop from Sint-Amandsberg extends to about 11.5 km.
Handelsdok is suitable for jogging year-round, thanks to its paved surfaces. However, the spring and autumn months offer particularly pleasant temperatures for outdoor activities. The open spaces also provide beautiful sunset views, making late afternoon or early evening runs especially scenic.
Yes, as part of Ghent's redeveloped Oude Dokken district, Handelsdok is surrounded by a growing number of cafes, pubs, and restaurants. You'll find various options within walking distance of the running paths, perfect for a post-run refreshment or meal.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 800 reviews. Runners often praise the scenic waterside paths, the blend of historical and modern architecture, and the refreshing environment provided by the redeveloped quays and green zones. The connectivity to broader city routes is also a highlight.
Yes, Handelsdok offers several easy running options suitable for beginners. While many routes are classified as moderate, the flat, paved surfaces along the waterside make them accessible. There are 66 routes specifically rated as 'easy' in the area, providing gentle introductions to running in this scenic district.
Handelsdok stands out for its dynamic environment, combining redeveloped waterside paths with historical industrial elements and modern urban design. Joggers can enjoy dedicated concrete paths, refreshing views along the water, and the integration of future green zones. It offers a unique cityscape experience, blending nature, history, and contemporary architecture.
Absolutely. Handelsdok's strategic location within Ghent's waterway network allows for connections to longer running loops. You can extend your run along the Leie River and other canals, or link up with routes like the Strop Bridge – Keizerpark loop from Ghent, which connects to broader city routes, offering varied distances and sights.


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