Top 20 Lakes in Flanders
Lakes in Flanders, the northern region of Belgium, offer diverse natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. The region features both natural and artificial lakes, providing settings for various outdoor activities. These bodies of water are often surrounded by greenery, making them popular for nature observation and active pursuits. Flanders' lakes contribute to its appeal as a destination for those seeking natural escapes.
Best lakes in Flanders
- The most popular lakes is Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), a cycle_way that offers a unique cycling experience through a pond. The path allows cyclists to ride at eye level with the water, providing a distinctive view of the surrounding nature.
- Another must-see spot is Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a bridge. This floating pontoon bridge provides a 360-degree view of the landscape between the iconic Eisden tailings, connecting the area's natural beauty with its industrial heritage.
- Visitors also love Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen, a bridge. This floating structure allows cyclists to traverse the Grote Plas, offering views of the green slag heaps and the surrounding national park.
- Flanders is known for its natural and artificial lakes, as well as unique cycling paths over water. These lakes provide opportunities for tranquil walks, watersports, and exploring the region's varied landscapes.
- The lakes in Flanders are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3200 upvotes and over 1600 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk)
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Zwin Nature Reserve
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Further information can be found on the nature park's website: zwin.be
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The Zwin
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Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge
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Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower
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Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes
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View of the Quarry and Lake at Mechelse Heide
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Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen
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View of the Grote Plas from Terhills
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Lommel Sahara
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Popular around Flanders
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Tips from the Community
This 380-meter pontoon bridge guides you gracefully between the slag heaps and across the water. Along the way, you'll be treated to a stunning 360° experience with views of the glistening water and the green slag heaps. "Cycling & Walking among the Slag Heaps" is a unique experience when visiting Hoge Kempen National Park!
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From this vantage point in the Mechelse Heide, you have a magnificent view of the green fields, rolling hills, and the lake nestled in the heart of the nature reserve. The view combines landscape and water, creating a uniquely atmospheric and photogenic panorama. The lake was created as part of the Mechelse Heide nature management program and provides a valuable habitat for waterfowl, amphibians, and other water-loving animals. Grasslands and hedgerows surround the water, giving the area character and lending the landscape a typical Voeren charm.
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"Cycling between the Tailings" is a floating pontoon bridge in the Hoge Kempen National Park, opening on September 14, 2024. Cyclists and hikers can enjoy a 360° view of the landscape between the iconic Eisden tailings, a unique experience that connects landscape and heritage. Info: https://www.visitlimburg.be/nl/fietsen-tussen-de-mijnterrils https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=95NpzjiUD_c Text sign: Cycling between the Tailings Through innovation and daring, the provincial government has taken the cycling experience in Limburg to the next level. At carefully chosen locations, well-considered interventions have been made in the landscape, allowing you to experience the surroundings from a different perspective. Here, along the tailings, "Cycling between the Tailings" unfolds. This cycling and walking bridge floats elegantly over the water, its flowing and organic spiral shape providing a 360-degree view of the landscape and heritage, telling the stories of the mines and the gravel and sand extraction. It is an invitation to further explore the Hoge Kempen National Park. Cycling between the slag heaps transcends its function as a functional cycling and walking route. It is a Limburg bridge connecting nature and heritage, between Limburg's rich past and promising future. The bridge is a technical feat. A length of 380 meters is spanned by 28 interconnected concrete floating pontoon elements, each 13 meters long. The bridge is anchored underwater to 15 steel tubular piles, each 1 meter in diameter and weighing 8 to 11 tons, which extend to a depth of 24 to 26 meters.
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super wide view also over the excavation
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A good requirement is...good condition because it is a tough walk, especially the red route, but it is definitely worth it... beautiful surroundings
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A great example of cycling tourism by Visit Limburg, a unique experience that will leave you speechless.
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Footbridge over the water, 300 m great experience
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must be beautiful when the heather is in bloom
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around the lakes in Flanders?
Flanders' lakes offer diverse natural landscapes. You can find serene environments with lush greenery and vibrant flora, ideal for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers, such as around Donkmeer Lake. Areas like the Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes feature unique combinations of lakes, sand dunes, and heathland. Many lakes are surrounded by forests and offer scenic viewpoints, like the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower, providing panoramic views over ponds and forests.
Are there opportunities for watersports at Flanders' lakes?
Yes, several lakes in Flanders are popular for watersports. Schulensmeer Lake in Limburg is a hub for activities like windsurfing, sailing, and canoeing. The Lake of Genval also offers boating, kayaking, and fishing. Donkmeer Lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing in a peaceful setting.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Many lakes in Flanders are family-friendly. Vosselare Put, near Ghent, is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering designated swimming areas, sandy shores, and picnic facilities. Highlights like Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk) and the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge are also popular with families for their unique and engaging experiences.
Can I go hiking or cycling near the lakes in Flanders?
Absolutely. The areas around Flanders' lakes are well-suited for both hiking and cycling. Donkmeer Lake and Vosselare Put offer surrounding trails for hiking and cycling. Schulensmeer Lake is a starting point for several cycling paths. For more detailed routes, you can explore guides like Easy hikes in Flanders or Running Trails in Flanders, which include routes near lake areas such as the Mechelse Heide.
Are there any unique cycling experiences around the lakes?
Flanders is renowned for its innovative cycling paths. You can experience Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), where you ride at eye level with the water. Another unique experience is the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a floating pontoon bridge offering 360-degree views between iconic tailings. Similarly, the Cycling Across the Floating Bridge – Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen allows you to traverse the Grote Plas with views of green slag heaps.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Flanders?
The lakes in Flanders can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time often depends on your preferred activities. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling, with beautiful scenery as nature changes. Summer is ideal for watersports and swimming, especially at lakes like Vosselare Put. Even in winter, the peaceful environments can be appealing for tranquil walks.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes are close to historical or cultural points of interest. The Lake of Genval, for instance, is known for the historic Château du Lac along its shores. The area around the Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge connects the region's natural beauty with its industrial mining heritage.
Can I find places to eat or stay near the lakes?
Many lake areas in Flanders offer amenities for visitors. Donkmeer Lake has delightful cafes serving local delicacies. The Lake of Genval is lined with luxurious hotels and charming cafes, perfect for enjoying Belgian cuisine with scenic views. Vosselare Put also provides picnic amenities.
Are there any dog-friendly options for walks around the lakes?
While specific dog policies can vary by location, many natural areas and trails around the lakes in Flanders are generally dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be on a leash. It's always recommended to check local signage or specific park regulations before visiting with your dog.
Where can I observe wildlife, especially birds, around the lakes?
Schulensmeer Lake is a significant sanctuary for numerous bird species, making it an excellent spot for birdwatching. Donkmeer Lake is also a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers due to its peaceful environment and lush greenery. The Zwin Nature Reserve, which includes lake areas, is another prime location for observing diverse wildlife.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes in Flanders?
Visitors frequently praise the unique experiences, such as cycling at eye level with the water at Cycling Through the Water. The panoramic views from spots like the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower and the serene beauty of the natural landscapes are also highly appreciated. The combination of active pursuits and tranquil escapes makes the lakes a popular destination.
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