4.4
(6440)
42,211
hikers
558
hikes
Bus station hiking trails in De Meetkerkse Moeren traverse a distinctive polder landscape, characterized by wet meadows, grasslands, and a network of ditches and streams. This region, once a vast peat bog, features a unique wetland environment. Hikers can explore the Meetkerkse Moeren Nature Reserve, which provides habitat for diverse flora and fauna. The terrain is generally flat, offering accessible paths and farm tracks for exploration.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
4.5
(33)
138
hikers
6.91km
01:44
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(22)
63
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.3
(11)
44
hikers
12.6km
03:11
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(4)
24
hikers
8.16km
02:03
10m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(3)
17
hikers
17.4km
04:23
20m
10m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The old lock between the Bruges-Ostend Canal and the Blankenberge Canal is currently undergoing a thorough renovation. After the renovation, this lock will once again play a vital role in the water management of the Uitkerkse polders.
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From the outside there is little to suggest it is a chapel until you take a peek inside.
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This church is often visible from the Uitkerkse polders and is easily recognized by its octagonal tower.
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In the First World War an important connection for the German navy between the ports of Zeebrugge and Ostend. Now you can cycle and walk along the towpath.
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The Grote Molen (Great Mill) of the Meetkerkse Moeren, or Lage Moere, dates in its current form from 1811. The polder mill and the miller's farm are situated on a roughly triangular plot (sown with grass) bordered by the Moerzwin to the west, the Blankenbergse Vaart to the east, and the Schamelzwin to the south. A vaulted brick arch bridge over the Moerzwin provides access to the site. The mill uses a wooden paddle wheel to pump water into a partially vaulted waterway that connects to the Blankenbergse Vaart, situated higher up. It is the only preserved mill of this type in Flanders. The predecessor of the Grote Molen was built in 1622-1623 together with the Kleine Molen, 200 meters to the south. The Kleine Molen was demolished in 1868 and replaced by a steam-powered pumping station. Source: Heritage Inventory https://inventaris.onroerenderfgoed.be/erfgoedobjecten/57979
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Enjoy this colourful picnic area in the middle of the polder landscape. It is located a stone's throw from the village of Houtave. An added value to this picnic area is the Ecotoilet. A highlight to tick off on your walking experience.
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When the Bruges-Ostend canal was constructed around 1620, part of the Meetkerkse Moeren became lower than the canal. Pumping systems with a wooden mill had to protect the areas from flooding. After 1810 the mill burned down and shortly afterwards the current stone mill was built. Until 1928 this mill pumped water from the Meetkerkse Moeren into the Blankenbergse canal. In the meantime mechanical pumps were introduced. The pump house with the installation still exists.
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There are over 550 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in De Meetkerkse Moeren. This includes more than 350 easy trails, 180 moderate options, and a selection of challenging routes for experienced hikers.
The region features a distinctive polder landscape, characterized by wet meadows, grasslands, and numerous ditches and streams. You'll hike along rustic farm tracks, offering expansive views over the wetlands. This unique environment was once a vast peat bog, with parts now below sea level, creating a fascinating natural setting.
Yes, many of the easy routes are suitable for families. For example, the View of Molenweg – Polder Mill Meetkerke loop from Meetkerke is an easy 6.9 km circular trail that offers a pleasant walk through the polder landscape, suitable for most ages.
You can discover several interesting points. Many routes pass by historic windmills, crucial for draining the polders. The Meetkerke Duck Decoy, a restored 16th-century site, is another unique historical attraction. You might also encounter the Bruges–Ostend Canal, which offers scenic views.
Yes, many routes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point. The Picnic Area – Moerstraat (Zuienkerke) loop from Meetkerke is a moderate 8.6 km circular hike, perfect for exploring the area without needing to retrace your steps.
De Meetkerkse Moeren is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer offer lush greenery and abundant birdlife, while autumn brings unique colors to the wetlands. In winter, wild geese and various ducks are common sights. The paths are generally accessible, making it a good destination in most seasons, though some areas might be wetter after heavy rain.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 6,000 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, natural setting, the unique polder landscape, and the abundance of birdlife. The well-maintained paths and the opportunity to discover historical sites like the Duck Decoy are also frequently highlighted.
For those seeking a longer adventure, the Moerstraat (Zuienkerke) – View of Molenweg loop from Meetkerke is a moderate 18.2 km route. It offers an extended exploration of the polder landscape and its diverse features, suitable for hikers with good fitness.
While these are hiking routes, the region is also popular for cycling. You might encounter sections that run parallel to or cross cycle paths, such as the Vaartdijk Zuid / Steenkaai Cycle Path. Always be mindful of other users on shared paths.
De Meetkerkse Moeren Nature Reserve is a significant bird area, home to over 30 breeding species including cormorants, blue herons, and bluethroats. In winter, wild geese, ducks, and waders are common. The wetland environment also supports diverse flora, including threatened plant species like the broad-leaved marsh orchid.
Yes, the View of Molenweg – Ghent–Ostend Canal loop from Meetkerke is a moderate 12.7 km route that provides excellent views across the polders and along the historic Ghent–Ostend Canal, showcasing the region's characteristic open landscapes.


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