Attractions and Places To See around Oosterzele - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Oosterzele, a municipality in the Flemish province of East Flanders, Belgium, offers a diverse range of experiences. The area is characterized by its natural landscapes, including the extensive Kalkense Meersen and the Scheldt River, and serves as a gateway to the Flemish Ardennes. Visitors can explore historical landmarks, cultural sites like traditional mills and distilleries, and unique geological features such as Balegemse stone quarries. The region is well-suited for outdoor activities, particularly cycling and hiking.
Best attractions and places to see around Oosterzele
- The most popular attractions is Kalkense Meersen, an other_natural area known for its vast fields, the Scheldt River, and diverse birdlife. This extensive natural area spans 950 hectares and functions as a buffer zone during floods.
- Another must-see spot is Boardwalk Trail, a trail featuring a beautiful boardwalk. Visitors can experience a swampy environment and remnants of former heathlands and traditional coppice forests in the valley of the Serskampse beek.
- Visitors also love Berendries Climb, a challenging cycling climb. This route is known for its smooth asphalt and has been included in the Tour of Flanders.
- Oosterzele is known for its natural features, historical landmarks, and local craftsmanship. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from extensive natural areas to historic mills and distilleries.
- The attractions around Oosterzele are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 4 photos shared.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Kalkense Meersen
Highlight • Natural
This area was given back to nature, which now has free reign in the vast fields. Because the meadows around you are actually intended as a buffer in the event of a flood. Enjoy this masterly spectacle of rushing wind, wonderful silence and flushing water.
But the Kalkense Meersen are more than just a controlled floodplain. With various sub-areas such as Wijmeers, Bergemeersen, Paardeweide and Paardebroek, this area comprises no less than 950 hectares of valuable nature, spread over the municipalities of Wetteren, Wichelen, Laarne and Berlare. What you will also encounter when exploring the Kalkense Meersen are grazing cattle. They help ensure well-thought-out nature management. You can immediately recognize the typical Galloway cattle by their characteristic long hair.
Thousands of meadow birds seek refuge here, away from civilization - a fantastic sight. From the Scheldt dike you have a beautiful view over the landscape.
You can easily explore the area via the hiking route network Kalkense Meersen Donkmeer. It offers 165 kilometers of green tranquility with places that will stay with you. Thanks to the imposing expanse, the abundance of birds, the tranquility and the combination of land and water. But also because of the simple beauty of what you see.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Berendries Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Boardwalk Trail
Highlight • Trail
The greatly reduced Serskampse forests of today bear little resemblance to the traditional coppice forests of the past. Little remains of the former heathlands that marked the transition to the forests.
With a beautiful boardwalk!
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Molenberg Climb
Highlight (Segment) • Climb
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Louisa d'Havé Bridge
Highlight • Bridge
Louisa d'Havé (Ghent, July 13, 1894 – Brussels, July 20, 1966) was a Belgian spy who delivered secret German military information and objects from occupied Belgium to the Belgian Military Intelligence Service during the First World War.
The Louisa d'Havé cycle route (18 km) through Ghent starts and ends at the bridge.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Oosterzele.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
The Louisa d’Havé Bridge is a sleek, modern bicycle and pedestrian bridge that connects the banks of the Scheldt River. Its open steelwork and soft curves give the bridge an almost floating appearance above the water. From the center, you have a clear view of the quays, residential areas, and the gentle flow of the Scheldt.
4
0
An iconic climb in the Flemish Ardennes, without cobblestones.
1
0
Very nice long boardwalk in a swampy environment
2
0
Beautiful forest beautiful boardwalk
2
0
Nice! (and very well signposted!) I used Komoot when I went to Bonn by bike
0
3
Ascent on the Tour of Flanders Ascent on the Tour of Flanders
0
0
cycle road to Brussels but is not yet completely finished
2
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What natural areas can I explore around Oosterzele?
Oosterzele is rich in natural beauty. You can visit the extensive Kalkense Meersen, a 950-hectare area with vast fields, the Scheldt River, and diverse birdlife, ideal for serene walks. Another unique spot is the Boardwalk Trail in the Serskampse beek valley, offering a chance to experience a swampy environment and remnants of former heathlands.
Are there any historical or cultural landmarks to visit in Oosterzele?
Yes, Oosterzele boasts several historical and cultural sites. The protected Klepmolen, a post mill built in 1791, is a showpiece among the region's windmills and is often open to the public. You can also learn about the famous Balegemse Stone, quarried since Roman times, at the local sand quarry. Additionally, several castles like Bioboerderij Blauw Kasteel and Kasteeldomein Smissenbroek dot the landscape.
What cycling opportunities are available near Oosterzele?
Oosterzele is a fantastic area for cyclists, serving as a gateway to the Flemish Ardennes. You can challenge yourself on famous climbs like the Berendries Climb and the Molenberg Climb, both known from the Tour of Flanders. For a more relaxed ride, the modern Louisa d'Havé Bridge offers picturesque views over the Scheldt River and is part of an 18 km cycling route through Ghent. You can find many road cycling routes around Oosterzele, including those along the Scheldt River Cycle Path, on the Road Cycling Routes around Oosterzele guide.
Where can I go hiking around Oosterzele?
The region offers numerous hiking opportunities. The Kalkense Meersen features an extensive hiking route network. You can also explore routes like the 'Stokerij Van Damme Distillery – Path through Ettingebos loop' or the 'Rest bench – Bunker Route Beekvallei loop'. For more options, check out the Hiking around Oosterzele guide.
Are there any local food or drink specialties to discover in Oosterzele?
Absolutely! Oosterzele is known for its local craftsmanship and products. You can visit Stokerij Van Damme, a distillery renowned for producing Balegemse jenever (local gin), where you can tour the production process and sample their grain jenever. Additionally, De Gijzelse Microbrouwerij produces local beer cheese, and De Vierhoekhoeve is known for its dairy products.
What is the best time to visit Oosterzele for outdoor activities?
The best way to discover Oosterzele is by cycling or walking, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery and sample regional products. While specific seasonal attractions are not highlighted, the natural landscapes and outdoor routes are generally enjoyable during milder weather, typically from spring through early autumn. However, the Kalkense Meersen offers a unique experience year-round, especially for birdwatching.
Are there family-friendly attractions in the Oosterzele area?
Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Kalkense Meersen offers vast open spaces for children to explore and observe nature, including grazing Galloway cattle and numerous meadow birds. The Boardwalk Trail also provides an accessible and engaging experience for families to discover a unique swampy environment.
Can I find good viewpoints in Oosterzele?
Yes, Oosterzele offers several scenic viewpoints. From the Scheldt dike, you can enjoy picturesque views over the expansive landscape, including the Kalkense Meersen. The Louisa d'Havé Bridge also provides a beautiful vantage point over the Scheldt River and the surrounding area.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hiking and cycling routes in Oosterzele?
The terrain around Oosterzele is varied. While some areas like the Berendries Climb offer smooth asphalt for cyclists, other routes might include challenging sections, especially in the Flemish Ardennes. Hiking trails can range from flat paths in the Kalkense Meersen to more varied landscapes with remnants of heathlands and forests, as seen on the Boardwalk Trail.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking around Oosterzele?
Yes, Oosterzele and its surroundings provide excellent opportunities for mountain biking. You can find various MTB trails, including routes like the 'Rekelberg – Molenberg Climb loop' or the 'Beekmeers – Schuisplanklos Gravel Path loop'. For detailed routes and difficulty levels, refer to the MTB Trails around Oosterzele guide.
What is the significance of the Scheldt River in Oosterzele?
The Scheldt River plays a significant role in Oosterzele's natural landscape. It forms a backdrop to the vast Kalkense Meersen and functions as a buffer zone during floods. From the Scheldt dike, visitors can enjoy picturesque views, and the river is also crossed by the modern Louisa d'Havé Bridge, enhancing cycling and pedestrian access.
Most popular routes around Oosterzele
Most popular attractions around Oosterzele
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:
