Top 20 Lakes around Eeklo

The water bodies around Eeklo are primarily a system of creeks, which are often former peat pits or water features formed by historical floods in the Meetjesland region. These are not large, natural lakes in the traditional sense, but rather unique ecological systems that provide diverse habitats for wildlife and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Among the most popular are Boerekreek, the largest creek in the Meetjesland region, known for its nature reserve and bird species. Another significant spot is Bentillekreek, one of five creeks in Sint-Jan-in-Eremo, recognized for its sandy soils and bird watching opportunities. Vrouwkenshoekkreek is also highly regarded, having been restored and now serving as a habitat for various water birds.

Yes, many of the creeks are suitable for families. For instance, Bentillekreek has a native orchard and picnic benches with a board game, making it ideal for families. The Provincial Sports Center De Boerekreek also offers facilities that can be enjoyed by families.

The creeks are rich in biodiversity. At Boerekreek, you can spot mallards, white-fronted geese, buzzards, and kestrels. Bentillekreek is a great place for bird watching, with kingfishers often sighted. Vrouwkenshoekkreek attracts hundreds of water birds, including the Marsh Harrier, especially in autumn. The area's unique polder landscape and restored creek systems offer beautiful natural views.

Yes, the region offers various walking opportunities. For example, the Boerekreek features a 9.5-kilometer 'Mindful Walk' yoga path. You can find more options for easy hikes in the area by exploring the Easy Hikes around Eeklo guide, which includes routes like the 'Leopold Canal Foot Ferry – Oostpolder Creek loop from Sint-Jan-in-Eremo'.

While the creeks are natural water bodies, they are primarily managed for nature conservation and recreation like bird watching or walking. Direct wild swimming is generally not permitted or recommended in these specific creek systems due to their ecological sensitivity and lack of designated swimming infrastructure. For outdoor swimming, Eeklo is planning an open-air swimming zone at the 'Kop van de Vaart' near the marina, which would be a designated area for such activities.

The creeks offer different experiences throughout the year. Autumn is particularly good for bird watching, as hundreds of water birds, including the Marsh Harrier, visit areas like Vrouwkenshoekkreek. Winter can also be appealing for quiet walks, with some paths like the Mindful Walk at Boerekreek being popular even then. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the natural beauty and enjoying the green landscapes.

Specific regulations for dogs can vary by nature reserve or managed area. Generally, dogs are often allowed on leash on public footpaths. It's always best to check local signage at the entrance to specific creek areas or nature reserves like those managed by Natuurpunt for their precise dog policies to ensure a pleasant visit for everyone.

Yes, the region is popular for cycling. You can find various road cycling routes around Eeklo that may pass by or near these water bodies. For detailed routes, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Eeklo guide, which includes options like the 'Cycling route between the Meetjesland and the Netherlands'.

Parking availability varies by location. For instance, the Provincial Sports Center De Boerekreek offers parking, though it might not always be open. For other creeks, parking is typically available in nearby villages or designated spots. Public transport to these more rural nature areas might be limited, so checking local bus schedules to the closest towns (e.g., Sint-Jan-in-Eremo, Sint-Laureins) and planning for a walk or bike ride from there is advisable.

Many of the creeks, such as Bentillekreek and Mesurekreek, are old peat pits created by peat extraction in the Middle Ages. They were further eroded by numerous floods and storm surges over centuries, shaping the unique landscape seen today. Some, like Vrouwkenshoekkreek, have undergone significant restoration efforts to return them to their natural state after being impacted by human activities like dredging.

While the creeks are primarily natural areas, some facilities exist. The Provincial Sports Center De Boerekreek offers amenities. For cafes or restaurants, you would typically find them in the nearby villages such as Sint-Jan-in-Eremo or Sint-Laureins, which are usually a short distance from the creek areas.