Top 20 Natural Monuments around Kruibeke
Best natural monuments around Kruibeke feature diverse landscapes shaped by the Scheldt River and its flood protection initiatives. The region is characterized by expansive flood plains, historical fortifications repurposed as nature reserves, and significant river confluences. These areas offer varied habitats for wildlife and provide opportunities for outdoor exploration. The natural monuments in this area showcase a blend of ecological importance and historical significance.
Best natural monuments around Kruibeke
- The most popular natural monuments is Benedenvliet - Schelle, a…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Confluence of the Dijle and Nete = Rupel
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The Putten van Lacourt
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Benedenvliet - Schelle
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Hingenewiel
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Fort 4 Mortsel
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The wheel is privately owned, but you walk right past it (on the Victor De Witstraat). No one knows for sure how the Hingenewiel was formed. We know that the Spierenbroek flooded around 1552. After failed attempts to close the Spierenbroekgat, the other polders flooded in November 1554, because the pladderdijk broke. We suspect that this is how the Hingenewiel was formed. A pladderdijk is a cross dike that runs from the stream through the polder (so not along the river). This large wheel was originally even larger, probably the Ketelwiel used to be part of this wheel. In the middle of this wheel was an island with a tower on it. The Hingenewiel became smaller due to natural silting up. Kingfisher, grebe, coot, moorhen, gadwall and shelduck breed here, among other things. But you can also admire fire damselfly, ostrich fern and yellow water lily here. (Regional Landscape Schelde-Durme)
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The "Samenvloeiing van Dijle en Nete = Rupel" is a place in Belgium which is located where the rivers Dijle and Nete join to form the river Rupel. It is located in the Flemish region, in the province of Antwerp, in the city of Rumst. This site is known for its natural beauty and for being a meeting point between the waters of the two rivers. The confluence of the rivers creates a striking and fascinating landscape, with large expanses of water joining and mixing. The area around the Samenvloeiing van Dijle en Nete = Rupel also offers opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature, with scenic trails and green areas that invite for walks and hikes. It's a popular spot with nature lovers and those looking to spend time outdoors.
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Watch out for rainy weather. The paths can be under water.
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FORT 4 in Mortsel was built in the middle of the 19th century and was part of the Brialmont fortress belt. Together with seven other fortresses it had to defend Antwerp in times of war. The army remained the owner of the fort until the year 2000, the year in which the city of Mortsel became the owner of FORT 4, a beautiful domain of 24 hectares. It was and is the ambition of the city of Mortsel to open up this closed bastion and allow as many people as possible to enjoy this exceptional site: an oasis of greenery combined with historic buildings and contemporary infrastructure. In the fort you can play, do sports, meet, rest, relax, discover, ... There are picnic areas and play equipment and events take place. With the support of various governments, several historic buildings have already been restored and a visitor center has been set up. The fort's guides will lead you through places you wouldn't even suspect existed. As a city, we are only at the beginning of the development of this domain, but gradually, step by step, FORT 4 is being returned to the Mortselaars and everyone who likes to stay there. This is an invitation to come and discover FORT 4: the old fortress, the new fortress, the green fortress, … It is worth it and you are very welcome. More info at https://www.mortsel.be/fort-4
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FORT 4 in Mortsel was built in the middle of the 19th century and was part of the Brialmont fortress belt. Together with seven other fortresses it had to defend Antwerp in times of war. The army remained the owner of the fort until the year 2000, the year in which the city of Mortsel became the owner of FORT 4, a beautiful domain of 24 hectares. It was and is the ambition of the city of Mortsel to open up this closed bastion and allow as many people as possible to enjoy this exceptional site: an oasis of greenery combined with historic buildings and contemporary infrastructure. In the fort you can play, do sports, meet, rest, relax, discover, ... There are picnic areas and play equipment and events take place. With the support of various governments, several historic buildings have already been restored and a visitor center has been set up. The fort's guides will lead you through places you wouldn't even suspect existed. As a city, we are only at the beginning of the development of this domain, but gradually, step by step, FORT 4 is being returned to the Mortselaars and everyone who likes to stay there. This is an invitation to come and discover FORT 4: the old fortress, the new fortress, the green fortress, … It is worth it and you are very welcome. More info at https://www.mortsel.be/fort-4
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FORT 4 in Mortsel was built in the middle of the 19th century and was part of the Brialmont fortress belt. Together with seven other fortresses it had to defend Antwerp in times of war. The army remained the owner of the fort until the year 2000, the year in which the city of Mortsel became the owner of FORT 4, a beautiful domain of 24 hectares. It was and is the ambition of the city of Mortsel to open up this closed bastion and allow as many people as possible to enjoy this exceptional site: an oasis of greenery combined with historic buildings and contemporary infrastructure. In the fort you can play, do sports, meet, rest, relax, discover, ... There are picnic areas and play equipment and events take place. More info at https://www.mortsel.be/fort-4
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With binoculars you can watch the antics of the water birds here
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main natural features to explore in the Kruibeke area?
The Kruibeke area is dominated by the expansive Polders of Kruibeke, Flanders' largest flood plain, featuring mudflats, salt marshes, alder thickets, and meadows. You can also visit the Confluence of the Dijle and Nete = Rupel, where two rivers meet to form the Rupel, offering scenic views. Another significant feature is the Benedenvliet - Schelle, a river that became a holding basin and is now a breeding area for water birds.
Are there any historical sites integrated with nature in Kruibeke?
Yes, Fort Steendorp, a 19th-century military fortification, has been repurposed into a 20-hectare nature reserve. Its historical structures provide a unique backdrop for its rich biodiversity. Additionally, Hof ter Saksen Castle offers a blend of historical estate and public educational nature park with walking paths, an arboretum, and a castle park. The Benedenvliet - Schelle also has remnants of a 1577 fort.
What kind of wildlife can I spot in the natural monuments around Kruibeke?
The Polders of Kruibeke are home to diverse wildlife, including roe deer, beavers, and occasionally otters. Birdwatchers can observe numerous species like barnacle geese, greylag geese, common shelducks, northern shovelers, eurasian teal, and kingfishers. Rarer birds such as the great grey shrike and penduline tit appear in winter, while avocets, ruffs, and eurasian spoonbills return in spring. Fort Steendorp is a crucial hibernation site for over 1,200 bats from at least eight species, and hosts 109 bird species, including nightingales and kingfishers.
Are there family-friendly walking routes in the Kruibeke natural monuments?
Absolutely. The Polders of Kruibeke offer numerous marked routes suitable for families, including the 1.2-kilometer 'Beverpad' along the Rupelmond Creek. Hof ter Saksen Castle is a public educational nature park with walking paths, meadows, and a castle park, making it ideal for families. Fort 4 Mortsel also provides picnic fields and toys within its 24-hectare domain.
What are the best times of year to visit the natural monuments in Kruibeke?
Spring and summer are excellent for experiencing the diverse plant life and numerous bird species at Fort Steendorp. The Polders of Kruibeke are beautiful year-round, with specific bird species appearing seasonally; winter offers sightings of great grey shrikes and penduline tits, while spring brings avocets, ruffs, and eurasian spoonbills. The 'Waterfalls of Kruibeke' are best seen during high tides when the Scheldt's water rushes in.
Are there hiking trails available near these natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking opportunities. You can find detailed routes, including the 'Rupelmond Creek hiking trail' and the 'Barbier Brook hiking trail', within the National Park Scheldt Valley. For more options, explore the Hiking around Kruibeke guide, which features trails like the 'Elzenbroekbossen – Scheldedijk loop' and the 'Broekskot Pond Bird Hide – Polder Forest loop'.
Can I cycle through the natural areas of Kruibeke?
The Polders of Kruibeke are a paradise for cyclists, offering numerous marked routes. You can find various road cycling routes, such as the 'Kruibeke–Burcht Towpath – Scheldedijk Kruibeke–Bazel loop' and the 'Rupel Riverside Promenade – Kruibeke–Burcht Towpath loop'. For more cycling adventures, refer to the Road Cycling Routes around Kruibeke guide.
What should I know about accessibility for natural monuments in Kruibeke?
While specific wheelchair accessibility details vary, many natural areas in Kruibeke offer relatively flat paths, especially within the Polders. For instance, Hof ter Saksen Castle is a public park with walking paths. It's always advisable to check specific route conditions, especially after rain, as some paths, like those near The Putten van Lacourt, can be underwater.
Are there any hidden gems or less crowded natural spots in Kruibeke?
While popular, the vastness of the Polders of Kruibeke means you can often find quieter spots away from main entrances. For a unique experience, seek out the 'Waterfalls of Kruibeke' when the Scheldt's water rushes in during high tide, a whimsical structure with graffiti that offers a different perspective on the landscape. Exploring the outer fortifications of Fort Steendorp also provides a blend of history and nature, often with fewer crowds than its interior.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Kruibeke?
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse landscapes, from the expansive flood plains of the Polders to the historical fortifications repurposed as nature reserves. The opportunity for birdwatching, spotting unique wildlife like beavers, and the blend of natural beauty with historical significance, such as at Fort Steendorp and Hof ter Saksen Castle, are highly valued. The scenic trails and the tranquil atmosphere, especially on weekdays at places like The Putten van Lacourt, are also popular.
Where can I find parking and trailheads for the natural monuments?
Many natural monuments, such as Hof ter Saksen Castle, offer dedicated parking facilities. For the Polders of Kruibeke, various entry points and parking areas are available, often near the start of marked walking and cycling routes. Fort Steendorp has accessible paths around its outer fortifications, with parking typically available nearby. It's recommended to check local signage or specific route information for precise trailhead locations.
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