Top 18 Natural Monuments around Aalter
Best natural monuments around Aalter are found within this municipality in the Belgian province of East Flanders. The region features diverse natural areas, including forests, meadows, and heathlands. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor activities and nature observation. Aalter's landscape is characterized by its varied ecosystems, offering distinct natural features.
Best natural monuments around Aalter
- The most popular natural monuments is Scheepsput, a lake that was historically used for training sailors. This calming pond is located within the Sint-Pietersveld.
- Another must-see spot is Meikensbossen, a forest area. Visitors can walk through a varied landscape of old and young forest, avenues, hayfields, and meadows, with several ponds.
- Visitors also love Schouwbroek Castle, which features a park laid out in the English landscape style. The park includes a pond, an icehouse, bridges, a boathouse, a cave, and monumental chestnut trees.
- Aalter is known for its forests, lakes, and natural parks. The area offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore.
- The natural monuments around Aalter are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 100 upvotes and more than 20 photos shared.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Meikensbossen
Highlight • Forest
source: walking guide Flanders route GR 128
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Herb garden
Highlight • Natural
(Province of West Flanders)
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Schouwbroek Castle
Highlight • Castle
The park was laid out in the English landscape style at the end of the 19th century. There is a pond, an icehouse with a pavilion built above it. There are also bridges, a boathouse and a cave. There are three monumental chestnut trees, including possibly the thickest chestnut tree in Belgium.
The park is closed off on the side of Schouwbroekstraat by an impressive iron gate. You can look through the gate at the park but you can't get in.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Woodpecker Trail in the Ganzeveld
Highlight • Forest
Source: Wikipedia
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Maldegemveld Lookout Hill
Highlight • Viewpoint
On the drier higher places, a typical dry heath vegetation with shrub heather develops.
sphagnum moss grows in the wetter places.
View and explore the woodpiles. these are favorite places for the lizard. On sunny days these are sunny spots.
This exceptional piece of nature has developed its own biotope within the Maldegem fields
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Aalter.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Beautiful walking area, not greasy even after heavy rain (some places were greasy, but easy to avoid).
0
0
The herb garden is located at the rear of the castle, opposite the entrance to the visitor center. It is accessible via the stairs or the ramp next to the restrooms. This unique herb garden is open to the public from sunrise to sunset. (Province of West Flanders)
10
0
As #Els wrote earlier: the vast majority of the forest is still quite young. It is therefore noticeable that there are still many young trees and 'lots' of planting have been marked. Already a charming forest, but it promises that it will only become more beautiful and valuable in the coming decades. Tip: With the Baliekouter in Wakken just a stone's throw away, you can make a beautiful loop between two beautiful pieces of nature.
5
0
The Ganzeveld is a 33 hectare nature reserve in Aalter (Belgian province of East Flanders). The mosaic landscape in the south of the Bulskampveld consists of forests (28 hectares), old beech avenues and a number of open meadows (5 hectares). The nature reserve has been managed by Natuurpunt since 2012. Additional forest was planted in November 2019. In the Ganzeveld, typical species of nutrient-poor forests (with pedunculate oak, silver birch and planted American oak), such as holly, wild honeysuckle, common heather and broom, flourish. Spork, rowan, strawberry and pill sedge grow in the herbaceous layer. Deer, squirrel, buzzard, nuthatch and black woodpecker live in the Ganzeveld. A 2 kilometer long signposted path runs through the Ganzeveld. Source: Wikipedia
6
0
Small and only a forest managed by Natuurpunt for over ten years with rich vegetation. A limited zone is being cleared to further increase biodiversity through heathland restoration. The walking loop through the forest has been baptized "The Woodpecker Route". The Ganzenveld is also the birthplace of Aalter.
3
0
There used to be a hof van plaisance (country house) here, which was depicted in 1755 in the middle of a park, which even contained an amphitheater. In 1894 the castle was rebuilt according to a design by Achille Marchand. The park was laid out in the English landscape style at the end of the 19th century. A pond, an ice cellar with a pavilion above it have been built. There are also bridges, a boathouse and a cave. There are three monumental chestnut trees, including possibly the thickest chestnut tree in Belgium. The castle was built in an eclectic style and made of brick and bluestone. The hall is decorated with sgraffito. In addition to the castle, there is a staff house with stables and a coach house with horse stables. These buildings also date from 1894. (according to Wikipedia)
3
0
You will find around 400 species here. When the herb garden at the castle was created, the aim was to create the most complete collection of herbs possible, for various uses. The herbs are grouped: Medicinal herbs The largest group in the herb garden, with traditionally known medicinal plants and more recently used species. The native species are listed according to their growing location. For example, you will find the marsh and water plants in or around the pond. Culinary herbs Discover commonly used and lesser-known species, in addition to food crops such as artichoke and asparagus. Industrial crops Less numerous. Often on larger plots, to give a better impression of the former cultivation method. The fibre plants, oil plants and dye plants are grouped as much as possible. Please note that some (medicinal) herbs are poisonous! This is one of the reasons why you are not allowed to pick any plants.
8
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural features can I expect to see in Aalter's natural monuments?
Aalter's natural monuments offer a diverse range of landscapes. You can explore dense forests, open meadows, and tranquil lakes. For instance, the Meikensbossen features a varied landscape of old and young forest, hayfields, and meadows with several ponds. The Ganzeveld is characterized by nutrient-poor forests and open meadows, while the nearby Maldegemveld Nature Reserve boasts purple heather patches and oak-birch forests.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Aalter?
Yes, several natural monuments in Aalter are suitable for families. The Meikensbossen is a great option, offering pleasant walks through varied landscapes. The Woodpecker Trail in the Ganzeveld is also family-friendly, with a signposted path through the forest. Additionally, the Herb Garden at Bulskampveld is accessible and educational for all ages.
What historical or cultural sites are integrated with Aalter's natural monuments?
Aalter's natural monuments often have a rich historical context. The Scheepsput, for example, is a calming pond historically used for training sailors. Schouwbroek Castle features a park laid out in the English landscape style with an icehouse, bridges, and a boathouse. The Herb Garden, located at the rear of a castle, offers around 400 species of herbs, grouped by medicinal, culinary, and industrial uses, providing an educational historical experience.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments in Aalter?
The natural monuments around Aalter are excellent starting points for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, such as the 'View of Kraenepoel – Kraenepoel Lake loop' or the 'Hooggoedbos loop'. For mountain biking, options like 'Around The Pit – Forest Path loop' are available. Hiking is also very popular, with trails like 'Poeke Castle – Poeke Castle Park loop' offering easy to moderate walks. You can explore more routes in the Running Trails around Aalter, MTB Trails around Aalter, and Hiking around Aalter guides.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Aalter?
The natural monuments around Aalter can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a unique experience. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer is ideal for longer walks and enjoying the open meadows. Autumn showcases vibrant fall colors in the forests, and winter offers a serene, quiet atmosphere. The Maldegemveld Nature Reserve is particularly beautiful when its heather patches are in bloom.
Are there specific trails or walking loops within the natural monuments?
Yes, many natural monuments feature designated trails. For example, the Ganzeveld has a 2-kilometer long signposted path known as 'The Woodpecker Route'. The Meikensbossen also offers pleasant walks through its varied landscape. Nearby, the Bulskampveld provincial domain includes an educational nature trail.
What kind of wildlife can be observed in Aalter's natural areas?
The diverse ecosystems in Aalter's natural areas support various wildlife. In the Ganzeveld, you might spot deer, squirrels, buzzards, nuthatches, and black woodpeckers. The Meikensbossen is particularly interesting for many animal groups such as birds and butterflies. In the Maldegemveld Nature Reserve, visitors might even spot fallow deer or Galloway cattle during their walks.
Are there amenities like parking or public transport options near these natural monuments?
While specific parking and public transport details vary by location, many natural monuments are accessible. For instance, Schouwbroek Castle, though not always accessible inside, has parking facilities nearby. The Herb Garden at Bulskampveld is also generally accessible. It's advisable to check specific access information for each site before your visit.
Can I bring my dog to the natural monuments in Aalter?
Many natural areas in Aalter are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific regulations for each site. Generally, dogs are welcome on trails, often requiring them to be on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the comfort of other visitors. Areas like the Meikensbossen and the Ganzeveld are popular for walks with canine companions.
What makes the Ganzeveld a significant natural monument?
The Ganzeveld is a significant 33-hectare nature reserve in Aalter, known for its mosaic landscape of forests and open meadows. It's characterized by species typical of nutrient-poor forests, including pedunculate oak, silver birch, holly, and wild honeysuckle. Managed by Natuurpunt since 2012, it's a valuable area for observing local flora and wildlife like deer, squirrels, and woodpeckers, and features a signposted 'Woodpecker Route'.
What is the story behind the Scheepsput?
The Scheepsput is a beautiful, calming pond with a unique history. It was dug in the mid-19th century to build a three-master ship, which then served as a training ground for sailors from a local reform school. Originally named 'Het Schip', it became known locally as the Scheepsput, and is now a tranquil spot within the Sint-Pietersveld.
Are there any natural monuments suitable for beginner hikers?
Yes, Aalter offers natural monuments with trails suitable for beginner hikers. The 'Poeke Castle – Poeke Castle Park loop' is an easy 7.35 km hike, and the 'Hooggoedbos – Hooggoed Forest Path loop' is an easy 5.1 km route. These trails provide gentle terrain and manageable distances, perfect for those new to hiking. You can find more easy options in the Hiking around Aalter guide.
Most popular attractions around Aalter
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Aalter:
