Top 20 Lakes around Koekelare
Best lakes around Koekelare are primarily found within its natural areas and reserves, as the municipality itself does not host large, prominent lakes. Koekelare is characterized by its natural beauty, including forested areas and arboretums like the Arboretum Koekelare, which features over 140 different tree species. While significant lakes for recreational activities are not directly within Koekelare, smaller water features and former clay extraction sites have created diverse wetland environments. These areas offer opportunities for walking and cycling routes, providing…
Last updated: August 24, 2026
Zwaanhoek Nature Reserve
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The Zwaanhoek is bordered in the north by the Ghent-Oostende railway, in the east and southeast by the Nieuwpoort-Plassendale canal and in the southwest and west …
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d'Aertrycke Castle
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Ostend Creeks
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Plassendale Lock Complex
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Viconia Clay Pits
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The castle and its surroundings are currently being restored. It already looks great, and in the future it will be fabulous. There is also a very nice little restaurant and a free toilet there.
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Experience the Viconia Clay Pits. A walking loop introduces you to the ponds and the observation tower.
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Beautiful cycle path along the canal.
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Nowadays the castle is a luxury hotel/restaurant and conference centre (Restaurant realised in 1990 and hotel built in 1996 by the then organisers of the Rock Torhout festival). On the other side of the Torhout - Oostende road lies the domain of the Wijnendale castle.
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The history of 'Domein d' Aertrycke' begins in 1865 when August de Maere, the spiritual father of the port of Zeebrugge, acquired 98 ha of the 'Verloren Kost' domain. In 1869 he had the now centrally located neo-Gothic castle built to a design by the Antwerp architect Joseph Schadde. In 1897 August de Maere, who had in the meantime been elevated to the nobility, was given permission to add d'Aertrycke to his name. With the exception of a short period after the First World War, the domain remained the property of the family. Xavier de Maere, the last owner of the castle, became known as second-in-command of the Belgian South Pole Expedition 1958-1959. After the death of his mother, who was the last of the family to live in the castle, he concluded an agreement with the West Flemish provincial government for the partial opening of the castle domain to the general public. In 2012, the province acquired full ownership and Domein d'Aertrycke became a fully-fledged provincial domain.
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The castle De Maere d'Aertrycke is a castle in the Belgian city of Torhout. The neo-Gothic castle was built from 1868 to 1871 by order of August de Maere, the castle is still popularly called De Maeres castle. It is located between the center of Torhout, Wijnendale and Aartrijke. The castle is located in a romantic garden with a large pond, meadows and forests. The domain has a great natural value. Roe deer, Western European hedgehog and the European red squirrel are the mammals that live there. Birds are richly represented with the tufted duck, great spotted woodpecker, moorhen, coot, grebe, jackdaw, nuthatch, tree creeper, finch, blue tit and great tit. There are also amphibians: the brown frog and the common toad.
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The Creek Area around Ostend is a unique wetland zone, with a network of creeks, marshes, reed beds and grasslands. These creeks were created by the natural silting up of rivers and other waterways. The area has a rich biodiversity, which makes it ideal for a nature walk.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of 'lakes' can I expect to find around Koekelare?
The Koekelare region is characterized by its natural beauty, featuring smaller water features within natural areas, former clay extraction sites, and historical sites with water bodies, rather than large, prominent lakes for typical recreational activities like boating or swimming. These include diverse wetland environments and ponds.
Are there any historical sites with lakes in the Koekelare area?
Yes, d'Aertrycke Castle is a notable historical site with a lake. Built between 1868 and 1871 in the Neo-Renaissance style, this domain now offers various signposted walks within its grounds.
Where can I find quiet nature reserves with water features near Koekelare?
For a peaceful escape, consider visiting Ostend Creeks, which is a quiet nature reserve with beautiful viewpoints. Another option is the Zwaanhoek Nature Reserve, a varied area with meadows, ditches, and swamps, offering a lookout tower for views of the polders.
Are there any lakes formed from industrial activity that are now nature reserves?
Yes, the Viconia Clay Pits is an excellent example. This area was created by clay extraction, resulting in six shallow clay pits. It is now a recognized nature reserve featuring wet meadows, ponds, and a new lookout tower for birdwatching.
Are the lakes and natural areas around Koekelare suitable for families?
Many of the natural areas and sites with water features are family-friendly. For instance, d'Aertrycke Castle, Ostend Creeks, Viconia Clay Pits, and the Plassendale Lock Complex are all categorized as family-friendly, offering pleasant environments for walks and exploration.
What kind of walking trails can I find near these lakes?
You can find various walking trails. d'Aertrycke Castle offers several signposted walks. The Viconia Clay Pits has the Viconiapad running through it, with bird hides. The Zwaanhoek Nature Reserve also has areas for walking, though some parts are only accessible via guided tours to protect wildlife.
Can I go cycling near the lakes around Koekelare?
Yes, the area is popular for cycling. The Plassendale Lock Complex is noted as a busy junction of cycling routes. Additionally, the Zwaanhoek Nature Reserve features beautiful cycle paths along the canal. For more cycling options, you can explore the MTB Trails around Koekelare or Gravel biking around Koekelare guides.
What are the best times to visit the nature areas and lakes in Koekelare?
The natural areas around Koekelare, including those with water features, are generally pleasant to visit year-round. Spring and autumn offer particularly beautiful scenery with changing foliage and active wildlife. Birdwatching, for example, is excellent in the Viconia Clay Pits during different seasons as various birds arrive.
Are there opportunities for birdwatching near the lakes?
Absolutely. The Viconia Clay Pits nature reserve is an excellent spot for birdwatching, featuring a new lookout tower and bird hides. The Zwaanhoek Nature Reserve also has a lookout tower, 'Het Rietnest', offering views of breeding, roosting, and wintering birds.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes and natural areas around Koekelare?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty. Many enjoy the quiet natural reserves like Ostend Creeks for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful viewpoints. The diverse landscapes, from wet meadows to historical castle grounds, offer varied experiences for walking, cycling, and observing nature.
Can I find running trails near the lakes and natural areas?
Yes, there are running trails in the vicinity. You can find various routes in the Running Trails around Koekelare guide, which includes trails like the 'De Swal loop' and 'Domeinbossen van Koekelare loop' that pass through natural settings.
Are dogs allowed in the natural areas and around the lakes?
While specific dog policies for each site are not detailed, generally, natural areas in Belgium often permit dogs on a leash. It's always best to check local signage or the websites of specific nature reserves like Natuurpunt for the most current rules regarding dogs to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone and to protect local wildlife.
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