The best walks and hikes around Kloosterbos
4.4
(3236)
16,102
hikers
574
hikes
Hiking trails around Kloosterbos traverse a 124-hectare forest in Wachtebeke, Belgium, characterized by diverse landscapes. The area features narrow forest paths winding through pines, beeches, and oaks, alongside open sand plains and fern-rich areas. It is situated on a sand ridge, a remnant from the Ice Age, which rises up to five meters above the surrounding terrain. Conservation efforts are transforming the forest into a mixed environment, enhancing its ecological significance.
Best hiking trails around Kloosterbos
- The most popular hiking…
Last updated: June 4, 2026
4.4
(25)
130
hikers
5.82km
01:28
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(12)
32
hikers
10.7km
02:42
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
3.8
(5)
27
hikers
4.17km
01:03
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(3)
12
hikers
13.6km
03:25
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
2.96km
00:45
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
This waterway 'De Langelede' is a man-made canal in the Belgian town of Wachtebeke, between the Dutch border and the Moervaart.
2
0
The information board is a bit hidden and not easy to read unless you are sitting next to it.
0
0
The Kloosterbos is a nature reserve in the north of East Flanders and is divided between Zelzate and Wachtebeke. It is, just like the Heidebos and the Stropersbos, one of the last remnants of what was once an extensive forest and heathland area from Maldegem to Stekene. Most of the trees in the current forest have been planted in the last 200 years, before that it was mainly heathland, as can be clearly seen on the Ferraris map. A number of zones in the forest have been set up as play forests. The forest has had the FSC label since June 2010.
2
0
The Kloosterbos is a nature reserve in the north of East Flanders and is divided between Zelzate and Wachtebeke. It is, just like the Heidebos and the Stropersbos, one of the last remnants of what was once an extensive forest and heathland area from Maldegem to Stekene. Most of the trees in the current forest have been planted in the last 200 years, before that it was mainly heathland, as can be clearly seen on the Ferraris map. A number of zones in the forest have been set up as play forests. The forest has had the FSC label since June 2010.
2
0
There are many large and varied walking trails, as well as a play forest, a grass field and a sand hill area. You can also spot deer.
1
1
Very nice mtb forest. Only almost nothing is allowed. We well but can't make any appointments so we just drive everywhere
1
0
Walking in the woods in the Waasland, where children can romp around? This is possible in and close to the versatile Kloosterbos. Together with the Stropersbos and Heidebos, the Kloosterbos forms the last remnants of what was once an extensive forest and heathland area from Maldegem to Stekene. The Kloosterbos is approximately 100 hectares in size, and includes 8 km of hiking trails and 3 km of cycling route
2
0
Kloosterbos, a green lung between Zelzate and Wachtebeke. Narrow forest paths lead you past towering trees in an alternation of a sea of ferns, open sand plains and fun play areas.
1
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Kloosterbos?
Kloosterbos offers a wide network of paths, with over 500 hiking routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring options for various fitness levels.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Kloosterbos?
Kloosterbos features a diverse forest environment with narrow paths winding through towering pines, beeches, and oaks. You'll also encounter open sand plains, areas rich in ferns, and a unique sand ridge, a remnant from the Ice Age, rising up to five meters above the surrounding landscape. Conservation efforts are transforming it into a mixed forest, enhancing its ecological richness.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Kloosterbos?
Yes, Kloosterbos is very family-friendly. It includes almost 9 hectares of designated play zones where children can freely explore and play in nature. Areas like the 'Witte Heuvel' (White Hill) are sand dunes perfect for children, and a 'kampenbos' (camp forest) allows for hut building. A photo scavenger hunt is also available for families.
Can I bring my dog on the trails in Kloosterbos?
Dogs are welcome in Kloosterbos, but they must be kept on a leash in most areas. There is also a specific designated off-leash area where your dog can run freely.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Kloosterbos?
Many routes in Kloosterbos are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the Kloosterbos entrance – Kloosterbos loop from Zelzate is an easy 4.1 km circular hike that takes you through the diverse forest environment.
What are the typical difficulty levels of hikes in Kloosterbos?
The trails in Kloosterbos cater to various abilities. You'll find a good mix of easy, moderate, and some more difficult routes. Over 300 routes are classified as easy, while more than 170 are moderate, offering options for a relaxed walk or a longer, more active outing.
Is there parking available for hikers at Kloosterbos?
While there isn't a dedicated parking lot within Kloosterbos itself, parking is generally available along the street near the main starting points and entrances to the forest.
How can I reach Kloosterbos using public transport?
The provided information does not specify direct public transport routes to Kloosterbos. It's advisable to check local public transport websites for bus or train connections to Wachtebeke, and then plan your route to the forest from there.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in Kloosterbos?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3,000 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse forest environment, the well-maintained paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, especially the narrow forest paths winding through the trees.
Are there any longer hiking routes that connect to other areas?
Yes, Kloosterbos is integrated into larger walking networks. For a longer experience, consider the De Langelede – Kloosterbos loop from Gent Arcelor Mittal, a moderate 13.6 km route that connects to the historic Langelede canal, offering varied scenery beyond the forest itself.
What is the best time of year to visit Kloosterbos for hiking?
Kloosterbos is beautiful year-round. Spring offers vibrant bloomers like spotted lungwort and wood anemones. Autumn brings colorful foliage. While trails are generally good, they can get muddy when wet, so appropriate footwear is recommended, especially during wetter seasons.
Are there any unique natural features or conservation efforts in Kloosterbos?
Kloosterbos is part of the European Natura 2000 area and the larger Vossenhol nature reserve. It's known for its ecological significance, including spring bloomers and older beech avenues attractive to black woodpeckers. Conservation efforts focus on transforming it into a mixed forest and creating open sandy areas where heather is re-emerging, contributing to a richer ecological environment.
Most popular routes around Kloosterbos
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Hikes in other regions.
