Attractions and Places To See around Stekene - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Stekene include a variety of natural features and cultural sites in the Belgian province of East Flanders. The region is characterized by its tranquil waterways like the Moervaart and Stekense Vaart, and significant natural areas such as the Stropersbos. These features provide opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking, alongside unique cultural institutions. Stekene offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance for visitors to explore.
Best attractions and places to see around Stekene
- The most popular attractions is Moervaart Towpath, a cycle path that offers quiet routes and scenic natural views along a historical waterway. This path stretches through the Moervaart valley, providing views over polders and vast ponds.
- Another must-see spot is Heather Stropersbos, a natural area known for its ecological restoration efforts. The area features re-established heathland, supporting diverse wildlife like field crickets and woodlarks.
- Visitors also love Stekense Canal, a historical waterway recognized as a quiet area with beautiful views. Cycling and walking paths along its banks offer a peaceful experience, highlighting its past as an important economic artery.
- Stekene is known for its natural features, historical sites, and extensive cycling and hiking routes. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from serene canals to restored heathlands.
- The attractions around Stekene are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 270 upvotes and 40 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Heather Stropersbos
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(Information board on site)
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Moervaart Towpath
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Terwest Bridge, Moerbeke
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Stekense Canal
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Spletteren Bridge over the Moervaart
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At this location you have a beautiful view over the picturesque Moervaart.
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Other adventures around Stekene
Tips from the Community
On Friday, April 5, 1867, the Spletterenbrug was officially opened. Between Moerbeke and Lokeren, trains stopped in Daknam and Eksaarde. In Moerbeke, travelers could transfer to railway line 77 towards Zelzate or towards Sint-Gillis-Waas. That the intention was to one day double the 9-kilometer railway line to two tracks is still visible on the Spletterenbrug. Both bridge abutments are indeed twice as wide as the bridge deck itself. It never came to that. On the contrary. The railway line suffered during both world wars, causing traffic to be suspended for months. For example, retreating German soldiers blew up the bridge at the end of World War I. Less than a year after the armistice, in September 1919, the line was already restored and trains could run on the route again. In 1940, the Belgian army, in turn, tried to slow down the German advance by destroying the bridge. The bridge was repaired again. In 1971, the last train chugged along the route. After more than a century of train traffic, the tracks were dismantled and the route was redeveloped as a cycling and walking path from Lokeren to Moerbeke. The Spletterenbrug itself was preserved and restored in 2017. The seven layers of paint were removed, and the bridge regained its original, dark gray color. Source: industriecultuur.be
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The old railway bridge over the Moervaart is a robust and distinctive structure that gives a nostalgic image of times gone by. The bridge forms a transition above the calm water and offers walkers and cyclists a special passage.
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history (you learn something from the past)
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nice cycle paths we also cycled through puiyenbroek
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Be sure to come and meet Erica when she is in bloom. The landscape is then colored purple. Rest benches invite you to press the pause button.
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In the 19th century, coniferous forests were planted on a large scale in the Stropersbos. That wood was needed to firmly support the tunnels of the coal mines. But in terms of natural value it did not amount to much. That is why the coniferous forest was thinned and cut down over the years. Young heathland appeared again, with bushes and shrubs. Highly appreciated by field crickets and woodlarks. Grazers ensure that the young heath does not reforest. (Information board on site)
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Along the towpath in Moerbeke Waas there are works until July 12 and is not accessible between Moerbeke Terwestbrug and Kalvebrug in Wachtebeke.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural attractions to explore around Stekene?
Stekene offers several beautiful natural areas. The Heather Stropersbos is known for its ecological restoration efforts, featuring re-established heathland that supports diverse wildlife like field crickets and woodlarks. You can also enjoy the tranquil waterways of the Moervaart Towpath and the Stekense Canal, both offering scenic views and peaceful paths.
Are there historical sites or landmarks to visit in Stekene?
Yes, Stekene has historical significance. Within the Stropersbos, you can find the Spanish Line in Stropersbos, which features remains of a 1701 line of defense from the War of the Spanish Succession, including a moat and parapet. The Stekense Canal itself is a historical waterway, dug in 1315, that was once an important economic artery for transporting bricks and tiles.
What outdoor activities are popular around Stekene?
Stekene is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly for cycling and hiking. The Moervaart Towpath and the Stekense Canal offer quiet paths perfect for cycling and walking. The Stropersbos area, including the Heather Stropersbos, provides beautiful forest trails for hiking. You can find many routes for various sports in the region, including hiking, mountain biking, and running.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Stekene?
Many of Stekene's natural attractions are suitable for families. The Moervaart Towpath and Stekense Canal offer easy cycling and walking paths. The Heather Stropersbos is also family-friendly, with open plains and benches for picnics, making it a great spot for children to explore nature. The Terwest Bridge, Moerbeke is another accessible point of interest.
What kind of wildlife can be observed in Stekene's natural areas?
In the Heather Stropersbos, the re-established heathland supports diverse wildlife, including field crickets and woodlarks. The Lokerse Moervaartmeersen, near the Moervaart, is known as a paradise for water birds, offering opportunities for birdwatching.
What is the best time of year to visit Stekene for outdoor activities?
Stekene's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round. However, for comfortable hiking and cycling, spring and summer offer pleasant weather. Be aware that some areas, like the Spanish Line in Stropersbos, can become muddy during winter and autumn, so appropriate footwear is recommended during those seasons.
Are there easy walking trails suitable for beginners or casual strolls?
Yes, Stekene offers several easy walking options. The paths along the Moervaart Towpath and the Stekense Canal are generally flat and quiet, perfect for relaxed walks. For a beginner-friendly hike, consider routes like the 'Dutch-Belgian Border Trail – Walking along the water catchment area. loop from Kapellebrug' which is rated as easy. You can find more options on the Hiking around Stekene guide.
Where can I find cycling routes around Stekene?
Stekene is excellent for cycling. The Moervaart Towpath and the Stekense Canal are popular choices, offering quiet and scenic routes through the landscape. These waterways provide a peaceful experience away from traffic. For more detailed cycling routes, including mountain biking options, refer to the MTB Trails around Stekene guide.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions in Stekene?
Visitors frequently praise the tranquility and natural beauty of Stekene. The quiet paths along the Moervaart Towpath and Stekense Canal are highlighted for their serene atmosphere and surprising natural images. The ecological restoration efforts in the Heather Stropersbos are also appreciated, offering unique natural experiences.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots in the area?
Yes, both the Moervaart Towpath and the Stekense Canal are recognized for their beautiful views, especially over the polders and vast ponds along the Moervaart valley. The Heather Stropersbos also offers scenic spots within its re-established heathland and forest areas.
Can I bring my dog to the trails and attractions in Stekene?
Many of Stekene's outdoor areas, such as the Stropersbos and the towpaths along the Moervaart and Stekense Canal, are generally dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash and be mindful of local regulations, especially in nature reserves or areas with grazing animals, to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors.
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