Top 20 Lakes around Ranst
Best lakes around Ranst offers a variety of water features within a municipality in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. While prominent natural lakes are not a primary feature, the area provides numerous ponds, historical moats, and park water bodies. These locations are integrated into the landscape, offering opportunities for easy lake walks near Ranst and exploring the natural and historical aspects of the region. The area is suitable for those seeking outdoor activities and hiking routes Ranst lakes.
Best lakes around Ranst
- The most popular lakes is Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond, a lake that is part of a large park. This location offers hiking trails that wind around the water features, with benches for relaxation.
- Another must-see spot is Pond at Fort III Borsbeek, a lake within a historical site. Visitors can explore the fort's surroundings, which include varied nature and walking routes, with some parts accessible for strollers.
- Visitors also love Nature area with water features, a lake within the Rivierenhof provincial domain. This area is known for its many water features and offers quiet strolls, being the oldest provincial domain in Belgium.
- Ranst is known for its ponds, historical moats, and park water features. These water bodies offer diverse settings for exploration and provide various easy lake walks near Ranst.
- The lakes around Ranst are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 180 upvotes and over 80 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: July 27, 2026
Hoefijzerput
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Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond
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Pond at Fort III Borsbeek
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Nature area with water features
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Redoute de Schilde Bunker (Anti-Tank Ditch)
Highlight (Segment) β’ Historical Site
The site has a total area of approximately 2 ha.
It was part of the main defense line of the city of Antwerp, provided for by law of March 30, 1906, located between the fort of 's Gravenwezel and the fort of Oelegem and in defense of the Turnhoutsebaan.
Update 14-6-22 signs have been placed that cycling is no longer allowed on the island itself.
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Tips from the Community
Here you know why water has an attraction...
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In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Kesselse Heide was a popular location for military exercises. It was used successively by the Belgian army (specifically the Achterbist region), during World War II by German soldiers, and in the post-war period by the Allies. Locals would sometimes "play" with the soldiers as children, participating in exercises such as quickly reassembling a weapon. However, from the early 1950s onward, the fun ended: the start of the Korean War and more frequent exercises led to stricter rules. Perhaps for the best, as the soldiers had access to heavy artillery. The heath contained several gun pits, part of the defense line around Nijlen. The famous "Horseshoe Pit" was one of them. This pit was originally circular and was (possibly) dug during the First World War to wash the soldiers' horses. Later, a small land bridge was added, making the island in the middle accessible. For many locals, it served as a beautiful swimming hole and a place for summer recreation.
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Nice story about rivalry between local youth from surrounding villages
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Winter lighting, quiet walking
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At the weekend you can always meet 'The Loze Vissertje' here.
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It is a beautiful park, with beautiful water features and the Rivierhof castle where you can enjoy a snack and a drink.
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In 1921, the last noble heirs decided to sell the domain. Thanks to the alert actions of provincial registrar Jozef Schobbens, the province bought the domain as a green lung for the then heavily populated Deurne-Borgerhout region where many workers lived. It was hoped that the Rivierenhof would be able to offer them healthy air, relaxation and tranquility. The province expanded the park from 40 to 135 hectares. Ponds were dug, lands were raised, castles were renovated and picturesque shelters were built. Bridges, a rose garden and sports fields were constructed. All this to allow everyone to enjoy the fresh greenery as much as possible. 100 years later, the Rivierenhof is still the most beautiful park in the entire province, where visitors from near and far admire everything this special place has to offer.
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On May 7, 1923, the Rivierenhof opened its gates to the general public. It is the oldest provincial domain in Belgium. Later all other provinces followed suit. History: In 1921 the last noble heirs decided to sell the domain. Thanks to the alert actions of provincial registrar Jozef Schobbens, the province purchased the domain as a green lung for the already heavily populated Deurne-Borgerhout region where many workers lived. It was hoped that the Rivierenhof would be able to offer them healthy air, relaxation and tranquility. The province expanded the park from 40 to 135 hectares. Ponds were dug, lands were raised, castles were renovated and picturesque shelters were built. Bridges, a rose garden and sports fields were constructed. All this to allow everyone to enjoy the fresh greenery as much as possible. 100 years later, the Rivierenhof is still the most beautiful park in the entire province, where visitors from near and far admire everything this special place has to offer.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Ranst?
Ranst is characterized by a variety of water features, including numerous ponds, historical moats, and park water bodies, rather than large natural lakes. These are integrated into the landscape, offering diverse settings for exploration and walks.
Are there family-friendly water features or parks near Ranst?
Yes, several locations are great for families. The Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond is part of a large park with hiking trails and relaxation spots. Pond at Fort III Borsbeek offers varied nature and walking routes, with some parts accessible for strollers. Hoefijzerput features a large sandy area for children and picnic benches.
What historical sites can I explore near these water features?
You can visit the Pond at Fort III Borsbeek, which is within a historical fort. Another option is the Schans van Schilde and Pond, a redoubt with a moat that was part of Antwerp's defense line and is now a walking and recreation area.
What kind of walking and hiking opportunities are available around Ranst's water bodies?
The area offers many easy lake walks and hiking routes. For example, the Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond has hiking trails winding around its water features. The Nature area with water features in Rivierenhof provincial domain is known for quiet strolls along its many water features.
Can I engage in water activities like boating or swimming at these locations?
While some locations like the Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond historically offered boat rentals, this is generally no longer possible. The focus is more on enjoying the scenery from the shore through walking and relaxation. Wild swimming is not typically promoted or permitted in these areas.
Are there any natural reserves or unique natural features to see?
Yes, the Pond at Fort III Borsbeek is within a natural monument and serves as an important hibernation site for bats. The Nature area with water features is part of the Rivierenhof provincial domain, the oldest in Belgium, offering a rich natural environment with many water features and forests.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the water features around Ranst?
Visitors appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, the varied nature, and the opportunities for quiet strolls. Many enjoy the well-maintained parks, the historical context of sites like Fort III Borsbeek, and the family-friendly amenities such as sandy play areas and picnic spots.
Are there cycling routes near the lakes and ponds in Ranst?
Yes, Ranst offers various cycling opportunities. You can find routes for gravel biking and general cycling that pass by or near these water features. For more details, explore the Gravel biking around Ranst or Cycling around Ranst guides.
Can I find mountain biking trails in the vicinity of Ranst's water bodies?
Yes, there are mountain biking trails available. You can discover various routes that incorporate the natural surroundings, including forested areas near some of the water features. Check out the MTB Trails around Ranst guide for specific routes.
Is it possible to bring dogs on walks around these water features?
Many parks and natural areas around Ranst are generally dog-friendly, but specific rules may apply regarding leashes or restricted areas. It's always best to check local signage at each location, such as Rivierenhof or Fort III Borsbeek, for the most current regulations.
Are there cafes or facilities near the water features for refreshments?
Larger provincial domains like Rivierenhof, which includes the Rivierenhof Boathouse and Rowing Pond and the Nature area with water features, typically offer facilities including cafes or kiosks. For other, smaller ponds or moats, amenities might be less common, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.
What is the best time of year to visit the water features around Ranst?
The spring and summer months offer pleasant weather for walking and enjoying the green landscapes. Autumn provides beautiful foliage, while winter can offer serene, quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours. The area is generally accessible year-round for walks.
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