Top 17 Lakes around Avelgem
Best lakes around Avelgem are found in a region characterized by its natural landscapes and historical waterways. Avelgem, located in Belgium, features a mix of cultivated land, grasslands, and areas shaped by the Scheldt river. The landscape includes former river meanders and man-made parks that integrate natural elements. This area offers diverse environments for outdoor activities, including walking and nature observation.
Best lakes around Avelgem
- The most popular lakes is Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers, a lake that is part of a large recreational area. This domain covers 192 hectares and offers activities such as swimming, water sports, and walking on well-maintained paths.
- Another must-see spot is Saint Arnoldus Park, a forest and man-made park with ponds and walking paths. This park includes a chapel, artificial rocks, and play options for children, attracting both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts.
- Visitors also love Coupure Deweer, a lake formed from a cut-off arm of the Scheldt river. This spot features stagnant water where fish, plants, and other organisms maintain a delicate balance, offering a quiet natural setting.
- Avelgem is known for its natural lakes, forest ponds, and man-made park lakes. The region offers a variety of water bodies, from former river meanders to recreational lakes, providing diverse natural experiences.
- The lakes around Avelgem are appreciated by the komoot community, with 2 highlights receiving 155 upvotes and 86 photos.
Last updated: May 26, 2026
Saint Arnoldus Park
Highlight • Forest
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Coupure Deweer
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
Sand was piled up on the southern edge of the valley, on which the village centers of Escanaffles and Ruien later emerged. The northern edge, where Avelgem is located, was created after clay was deposited in curved soils or "meersen". The northern and southern valley edges in the Avelgem Scheldemeersen are almost the only places within the valley where habitation is present.
When the Scheldt was straightened for the last time last century, several 'coupures' or cut-off arms were created with stagnant or weakly flowing water. The 'Coupure Deweer' is a wonderful example of this. In the still water of the meander, fish, plants and other organisms maintain a delicate balance. You will also find the Nature House (NEC) of Natuurpunt Avelgem there.
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Vestingvijver Nature Trail
Highlight • Trail
The natural value of the fortresses is very high. An important part is the elongated fortress pond. There is high-stem wood on both sides of the pond, partly through planting, partly through spontaneous settlement. The area was purchased by the city in 2 phases and fully acquired in 2005.
Management is based on the existing potential and maximum nature development. The aim is to preserve the intimate, closed character of the area. With active planting, only regional greenery is used.
A footpath has been created between the Vestingvijver and the railway.
Source: oudenaarde.be/nl/vrij-tijd/bossen-parken-en-speelpleinen/bossen-en-parken/vestingen
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Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers
Highlight • Lake
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Forest pond
Highlight • Lake
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Tips from the Community
Water has an attraction, so try to stop them.
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The provincial domain De Gavers in Harelbeke and Deerlijk covers 192 hectares and is a popular recreational area with a large lake, created by sand extraction in the 1960s. The domain offers a wide range of activities: swimming, water sports, walking, cycling and an adventure park. In addition, there is a nature reserve where birds hibernate and a flower-rich area managed by Natuurpunt. The domain attracts around 800,000 visitors annually, who enjoy both the natural environment and the extensive recreational facilities.
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Children can also wade in the water here and walk on the planks
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Very nice to walk around the quiet lake, well-maintained path.
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This highlight was elsewhere called "Tiegembos". (Meanwhile I suggested merging both highlights)
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Because a number of 'miraculous cures' in the region in the 19th century were attributed to the intervention of Saint Arnold, who is said to have given the water of the local spring medicinal properties, this place became a place of pilgrimage. A (Sint-Arnoldus) chapel was built and artificial rocks (in typical Belgian 'cement rustic' style), ponds, fountains, walking paths and a sunbathing area were added.
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just across the bicycle bridge 'the shell' land art
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes around Avelgem are suitable for families with children?
Several lakes in the Avelgem area are great for families. Saint Arnoldus Park features ponds, walking paths, and play options for children. Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers is a large recreational area with swimming, water sports, and well-maintained paths. Additionally, Coupure Deweer offers a quiet natural setting, and the Forest pond in Kluisbos provides a fun challenge for kids.
Are there opportunities for swimming or water sports at the lakes near Avelgem?
Yes, Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers is a popular recreational area where you can enjoy swimming and various water sports. Children can also wade in the water there.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Avelgem?
The region offers diverse outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, such as the moderate 12.7 km "Coupure Deweer – Scheldemeersen Nature Reserve loop from Avelgem" or the easy 4.6 km "Old Scheldt Meander Rugge-Avelgem – Scheldemeersen Nature Reserve loop from Avelgem." For cycling, there are routes like the 54.5 km "Old Scheldt Meander Rugge-Avelgem – Tiegemberg loop from Avelgem." Gravel biking is also popular, with challenging routes like the 44.4 km "Route Avelgem Kriereroute." You can find more details on these and other routes in the hiking guide, gravel biking guide, and cycling guide for Avelgem.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, Saint Arnoldus Park, while a natural area, also features a chapel and artificial rocks, attracting both nature enthusiasts and pilgrims. The park was constructed after reported miraculous healings. Additionally, the Vestingvijver Nature Trail is located near the last remnants of former defenses around the city of Oudenaarde, holding significant cultural-historical value.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Avelgem?
The lakes and surrounding areas are enjoyable throughout the year for various activities. For walking and nature observation, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery. Summer is ideal for swimming and water sports at places like Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers. While winter walks are possible, be aware that some paths, like the Vestingvijver Nature Trail, can be quite greasy.
Are there any hidden or less-known lakes worth exploring?
Yes, in the Kluisbos, you can discover a Forest pond that many visitors wouldn't expect to find there. It offers a secluded natural spot.
What makes Coupure Deweer unique among the lakes in the region?
Coupure Deweer is a unique lake formed from a cut-off arm of the Scheldt river. It features stagnant water where a delicate balance of fish, plants, and other organisms thrives, offering a tranquil natural setting. It's a prime example of the 'coupures' created when the Scheldt was straightened.
Can I find cafes or places for refreshments near the lakes?
At Saint Arnoldus Park, there were historically options for drinks, though it's always best to check current availability. For picnics, some areas like Saint Arnoldus Park offer special picnic cupboard options that require advance reservation.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around the lakes of Avelgem?
The region around Avelgem's lakes is characterized by a mix of cultivated land, grasslands, and areas shaped by the Scheldt river. You'll find former river meanders, man-made parks integrating natural elements, and diverse environments for nature observation. The Coupure Deweer, for instance, showcases a unique lake biotope.
Are there any easy walking trails around the lakes?
Yes, many areas offer easy walking. Lake at Provinciedomein De Gavers has well-maintained paths suitable for leisurely walks. For a specific route, the "Old Scheldt Meander Rugge-Avelgem – Scheldemeersen Nature Reserve loop from Avelgem" is an easy 4.6 km hike, and the "Artwork "Mustard" – Artistic wooden bench loop from Avelgem" is another easy 4.8 km option. You can find more easy routes in the hiking guide.
What are the main attractions at Provinciedomein De Gavers?
Provinciedomein De Gavers is a large recreational area covering 192 hectares. Its main attractions include a large lake for swimming and water sports, an adventure park, and a nature reserve that serves as a wintering ground for birds. It also features well-maintained paths for walking and cycling.
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