Top 20 Lakes around Erpe-Mere
Best lakes around Erpe-Mere are found in the surrounding region, which features extensive natural areas with significant water bodies. The landscape is characterized by an open lake environment, particularly the Kalkense Meersen, a valuable natural reserve. These water features, including canals and former peat extraction sites, offer diverse natural settings for outdoor activities. The region's geography is shaped by the Scheldt river, contributing to its unique wetland ecosystems.
Best lakes around Erpe-Mere
- The most popular lakes is Kalkense Meersen, an other natural area that features an open lake landscape and serves as a flood buffer. This area is known for its extensive cycling and walking opportunities, with the Scheldt river in the background.
- Another must-see spot is Peat Pits of Berlare Broek, a lake area formed from an old Scheldt meander where peat was extracted. Visitors can expect an alternation between ponds and forests, offering a unique natural setting for walking.
- Visitors also love Berlarebroek Nature Reserve, a forest and lake area that covers the eastern part of an old Scheldt meander. This nature reserve is accessible via walking and cycling paths, providing a tranquil experience with numerous water features.
- Erpe-Mere is known for its natural reserves, peat pits, and open lake landscapes. The area offers a variety of water bodies to explore, from extensive floodplains to smaller ponds within forested areas.
- The lakes around Erpe-Mere are appreciated by the komoot community, with 403 upvotes and 4 photos shared across the highlights.
Last updated: June 27, 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.
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Donkmeer
Highlight • Lake
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Peat Pits of Berlare Broek
Highlight (Segment) • Lake
The thick layer of peat remained virtually untouched until the second half of the 17th century. Only then did peat begin to be extracted. As part of this peat extraction, the eastern part of the old Scheldt meander was excavated again, transforming the area into a large water surface. It was only finally drained at the beginning of the last century. The vacated land was planted with willows for basket weaving. After the Second World War, poplars were planted for the production of matches. Today, these poplars are gradually being replaced by native tree and shrub species as part of current forest management.
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Berlare Castle Park
Highlight • Castle
The castle and outbuildings are not open to the public, but the park is.
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Aelmoeseneiebos Stream and Wooden Bridge
Highlight • Forest
It includes more than 60 tree species, including all native trees of Flanders, as well as a number of park trees.
It is currently used as part of the Bioscience Engineering course in Forest and Nature Management and is freely accessible to walkers.
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The Aelmoeseneiebos (or Aalmoezenijebos) is a nature reserve on the territory of the municipalities of Melle (Gontrode) and Oosterzele (Landskouter). The forest is 28.5 hectares in size and is owned by the University of Ghent. The forest area is now managed by the university Lab for Forest & Nature. The railway line Ghent-Geraardsbergen divides the forest in two. The Aelmoeseneiebos is an old forest area that already appeared on the Ferraris map in 1775. The forest was owned by the Saint Bavo's Abbey of Ghent for centuries. During the French period (1794-1815) it was transferred to the public poor relief of the city of Ghent. In 1967-1968 the Belgian State bought the forest so that the University of Ghent could use it as a test forest. The most important tree species are summer oak and beech, with ash and maple in the stream valleys. The Aelmoeseneiebos is known for its spring flora such as wood anemone, slender primrose, yellow dead-nettle and small periwinkle. During the First World War, the forest was largely cut down but replanted in 1920. Adjacent to the western part of the Aelmoeseneiebos, 10 hectares of plots of land belonging to Natuurpunt, Oosterzele department, are located in the valley of the Gondebeek. With the 'Rodeland landscape project' [1], the aim is to connect the Aelmoeseneiebos with the Makegemse forests through afforestation in the valleys of the Gondebeek, Kerkesbeek and Driesbeek[2][3]. In 2021, 5 amphibian tunnels were constructed in the Gondebeek valley[4]. Inventories and research in the Aelmoeseneiebos found 1329 different species: including 64 tree and shrub species and 599 species of invertebrates. The Aelmoeseneiebos is protected in Europe as part of the Natura 2000 area (habitat directive area) 'Forests of the south-east of the Zandleemstreek' (BE2300044). The forest is freely accessible on the footpaths.
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This nature reserve is a remnant of an extensive forest area that gradually had to make way for agriculture in the 18th century. The surrounding land and the forest were owned for centuries by the Aalmoezenij, the poor relief of the Ghent Saint Bavo's Abbey. The production of wood was the main function at that time. The forest was purchased by the Belgian state in 1967-1968 so that the University of Ghent could use it as a test forest. In the early years, it was mainly used for studies on the growth and management of forests with a view to wood production. It also had a recreational and educational function. Railway line 122 Melle-Geraardsbergen divides the forest in two. In the western part (where we walked) an arboretum was created in 1973. With the 'Rodeland landscape project', the aim is to connect the Aelmoeseneiebos with the Makegemse forests through further afforestation of a number of stream valleys.
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Nice to walk through with water on both sides.
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During the preparation of the works, all areas of the castle and the outbuildings were cleared of "disturbing elements", so that the rooms now show their spaciousness of yesteryear in all their glory. Some interesting notes also emerged that provide a unique view of the history of the castle. This is how they came across the signatures of the craftsmen who worked in the castle in the distant past. Source: https://www.berlare.be/
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In-depth restoration work on the castle has started since May 2023. The historic castle, outbuildings and orangery will be repurposed as the administrative center for municipal services. The works will last two years. The castle park will remain accessible during the works. Although certain parts are currently closed due to the site organization and the safety of visitors. The castle is now barely visible (as my photos show).
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When you leave the information center, keep the lake on your right. The route past the chapel is not worth it unless you like residential areas. Once you reach the green area towards the duck decoy, the walk becomes really beautiful. At the campsite on the other side of the lake it is best to turn around and walk back. As you continue, you walk along the busy road surrounding the lake. Only the green side of the lake is worth it.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the primary natural features to explore around Erpe-Mere?
The region around Erpe-Mere is characterized by an open lake landscape, particularly the Kalkense Meersen, which is a valuable natural reserve and flood buffer. You'll find extensive wetland ecosystems, old Scheldt meanders, and areas where water constantly interacts with the land. Other notable features include the Peat Pits of Berlare Broek with its unique ponds and forests, and the Berlarebroek Nature Reserve, offering tranquil water features within forested areas.
Are there family-friendly lakes or natural areas suitable for children near Erpe-Mere?
Yes, several natural areas around Erpe-Mere are family-friendly. The Kalkense Meersen offers extensive cycling and walking opportunities suitable for families. The Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve also feature easy walking paths through forests and past ponds, ideal for a family outing. Additionally, Berlare Castle Park, with its landscaped gardens and ponds, is accessible to walkers and cyclists and is family-friendly.
What kind of walking and cycling routes can I find near the lakes around Erpe-Mere?
The region offers a variety of routes. The Kalkense Meersen boasts a hiking route network with 165 kilometers of trails and extensive cycling paths, including stretches along the Scheldt dike. The Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve also have walking and cycling paths through their forested and watery landscapes. For more detailed routes, you can explore the Cycling around Erpe-Mere guide or the Running Trails around Erpe-Mere guide.
Is birdwatching a popular activity in the lake areas near Erpe-Mere?
Yes, birdwatching is a fantastic activity, especially in the Kalkense Meersen. This natural reserve provides refuge for thousands of meadow birds, offering a spectacular sight for visitors. The combination of land and water, along with the vast open landscape, makes it an ideal habitat for diverse bird species.
Are there any historical sites or castles with lakes nearby?
Yes, Berlare Castle Park is a notable historical site. While the castle itself is not open to the public, its surrounding park, which features a large landscaped garden with avenues, forests, and ponds, is accessible for walkers and cyclists. The park has a rich history dating back to the 17th century, with its layout evolving over time to include irregularly shaped curved water features.
What is the best time to visit the natural areas and lakes around Erpe-Mere?
The natural areas around Erpe-Mere, such as the Kalkense Meersen, can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and cycling, with vibrant flora and fauna. Winter can also be beautiful, especially in areas like the Peat Pits of Berlare Broek, where the effects of past storms on the forest become more visible, creating a unique atmosphere.
Can I bring my dog to the walking trails around the lakes?
Many natural areas and trails in the region are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves to protect wildlife and grazing animals like the Galloway cattle found in Kalkense Meersen. Always check local signage for specific rules in each reserve.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the nature reserves?
In areas like the Kalkense Meersen, you can observe thousands of meadow birds. The nature management in this area also includes grazing Galloway cattle. The varied ecosystems of forests, ponds, and wetlands in reserves like Peat Pits of Berlare Broek and Berlarebroek Nature Reserve support diverse flora and fauna, though specific sightings will vary.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near the lakes?
While the immediate lake areas might be more suited for walking and cycling, the broader region around Erpe-Mere offers mountain biking opportunities. You can find various trails by consulting the MTB Trails around Erpe-Mere guide, which lists routes of varying difficulty.
What makes the Kalkense Meersen a unique natural area?
The Kalkense Meersen is unique for its 'open lake landscape' and its function as a controlled floodplain for the Scheldt river. It's a place where water constantly interacts with the land, creating a dynamic ecosystem. The area is managed with the help of grazing Galloway cattle and is a significant refuge for meadow birds, offering a sense of 'total peace' amidst its vast natural beauty.
What is the Aelmoeseneiebos Stream and Wooden Bridge highlight?
The Aelmoeseneiebos Stream and Wooden Bridge refers to a forest area that includes an arboretum planted in 1973, featuring over 60 tree species, including all native trees of Flanders. It's freely accessible to walkers and offers a pleasant natural environment with streams and a wooden bridge, making it a family-friendly spot.
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