Top 15 Lakes around Hooglede
Best lakes around Hooglede are not found directly within this rural municipality in West Flanders, which is characterized by undulating terrain and panoramas. While Hooglede itself does not feature prominent natural lakes, the wider Belgian region offers several significant water bodies for recreation. These destinations provide diverse activities and natural settings for those seeking lake experiences.
Best lakes around Hooglede
- The most popular lakes is d'Aertrycke Castle, a castle that was built between 1868 and 1871 in the Neo-Renaissance…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
d'Aertrycke Castle
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Round Basin
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The Grote Bassin was constructed in 1862 in the bed of the Mandel and the Kleine Bassin in the bed of the Sint-Amandsbeek. …
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Buffer Basins Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat
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d'Aertrycke Castle Park
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Cafeteria / restaurant
Picnic options
Toilet
Play nature / playground
Wheelchair accessible
Dogs on a leash allowed
Source: west-vlaanderen.be/domeinen/daertrycke
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Torwoud Pond and Boardwalk
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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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In 2011, a buffer basin was constructed that is divided into four basins. Three basins are located here between Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat and one a little further away, at the corner of Egemstraat-Baertstraat. The buffer basin was constructed to prevent flooding; this by temporarily holding the rainwater and then discharging it in a delayed manner into the Breemeersbeek. In addition to its water management function, the buffer basin also has a recreational and ecological function. A Finnish track of 1030 m was constructed around it, where hikers can also enjoy a beautiful piece of nature. Police regulations were drawn up to prevent nuisance. Source: https://www.pittem.be/nl/wonen/waterbeheer/bufferbekken
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Colloquially known as the Maeres Castle, also called Kasteel Maere d'Aertrycke, it was built between 1868 and 1871 in the Neo-Renaissance (French) style. August Maere, the visionary behind the port of Zeebrugge, was later ennobled and was allowed to add the name d'Aertrycke to his surname. The domain remained in the hands of the family for a long time, but from 1960 part of it became the property of the province of West Flanders. Since 2012, the entire domain has been provincial property and the castle has been transformed into a hotel, restaurant and conference center.
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oasis of peace in nature
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Enchanting piece of nature with something for everyone. Absolutely recommended
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of water features can I explore around Hooglede?
While Hooglede itself doesn't have large natural lakes, the area features a variety of water bodies. You can find historic castle lakes like at d'Aertrycke Castle, natural ponds such as Torwoud Pond and Boardwalk, and man-made basins like the Round Basin and the Buffer Basins Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat, which serve both ecological and recreational purposes.
Are there family-friendly lake areas near Hooglede?
Yes, several spots are great for families. Torwoud Pond and Boardwalk offers a play forest, picnic spots, and a boardwalk. Ardoyevijver, Ardooie 't Veld has a forest with ponds and a birdwatching hut. The Buffer Basins Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat also provide recreational space with a Finnish track.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints around the lakes near Hooglede?
For beautiful views, visit Ardoyevijver, Ardooie 't Veld, where a peninsula with a bench offers quiet contemplation over the pond. The Torwoud Pond and Boardwalk also provides enchanting natural scenery.
What are some notable larger lakes in Belgium that are worth visiting for water activities?
For extensive water activities, consider the Eau d'Heure Lakes, Belgium's largest lake complex, offering sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and more. Another option is Lake Schulens in Limburg, the largest lake in Flanders, popular for running and hiking. The Eupen Reservoir also provides beautiful natural surroundings for cycling and hiking.
Are there opportunities for hiking and cycling near the lakes around Hooglede?
Yes, the local lake areas offer various trails. The Buffer Basins Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat feature a 1030m Finnish track. For more extensive options, you can explore nearby hiking routes like the 'Grijspeerd Mill – De Huwynsbossen loop' or cycling routes such as 'Aartrijkeberg via Steenstraat – Diksmuidse Heirweg Cycle Route loop'. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Hiking around Hooglede and Road Cycling Routes around Hooglede guides.
Can I find historical sites associated with lakes in the Hooglede area?
Absolutely. d'Aertrycke Castle, built in the Neo-Renaissance style between 1868 and 1871, features a beautiful lake within its domain. The Round Basin also has historical significance, having been dug around 1880 to serve as a water reservoir for textile factories.
What kind of facilities are available at d'Aertrycke Castle?
d'Aertrycke Castle, also known as Kasteel Maere d'Aertrycke, is a historic domain that now houses a hotel, restaurant, and conference center. It also offers various signposted walks around its grounds and lake.
Are there any accessible lake areas for wheelchair users or prams?
Yes, the Round Basin has been made accessible with an access ramp for wheelchair users and prams at both ends. A wooden esplanade just above the water surface allows for easy movement around the Kleine Bassin section.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Hooglede?
Visitors appreciate the diverse settings, from historic castle lakes to natural ponds and man-made basins, which offer a variety of experiences for walks and enjoying nature. The komoot community has shared over 200 photos and given more than 350 upvotes for these spots, highlighting their appeal.
Are there any running trails near the lakes in Hooglede?
Yes, you can find several running trails in the vicinity. For example, the Buffer Basins Koolskampstraat and Egemstraat have a Finnish track. More dedicated running routes like the 'Military Cemetery loop' or 'Gitsberg loop' are also available. Check the Running Trails around Hooglede guide for more options.
What makes the Eau d'Heure Lakes a significant destination in Belgium?
The Eau d'Heure Lakes form the largest lake complex in Belgium, spanning 1,800 hectares. It's a premier destination for water sports like sailing, windsurfing, and kayaking, and offers over 100 km of trails for cycling and hiking. It also features an indoor water park (Aquacentre) and a treetop adventure park (Natura Parc), making it ideal for diverse activities and family fun. More information can be found on Visit Wallonia.
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