The best MTB trails around Sint-Martens-Latem

From the unpaved Maaiegemdijk, you get a beautiful view of a cut-off historical meander of the Leie river. Overhanging weeping willows, calm water, and the perfect reflection make this a delightful spot for hikers, cyclists, and nature lovers. But behind this idyllic spot also lies a special piece of history. Between 1950 and 1970, the meandering Leie was straightened in several places to allow larger ships to pass. This bend was thereby cut off from the main river. Thanks to local nature lovers and activists, the meander was fortunately preserved and escaped being filled in. Furthermore, for centuries the Leie was the heart of the flax industry. Retting flax gave the water a typical color, and the river grew into the well-known 'Golden River'. The tranquility, the water, and the special light also made the surroundings popular with artists from the Latem School. They found ample inspiration here in the mysterious landscape of the Maaiegem marshes. A place where nature, history, and art come together beautifully – and where you naturally linger a little longer.

Beautiful to do at sunrise

During a thunderstorm on June 19, 2026, the Huisekoutermolen blew over.

No busy roads, where peace and beautiful landscapes prevail…👌👍

beautiful piece of nature and rest stop!

On the banks of the Leie River, in the heart of picturesque Afsnee, stands St. John the Baptist Church—a historic gem with roots dating back to the 10th century. The church has a Romanesque core from the 12th century and has been renovated and restored several times over the centuries, while retaining its character. Constructed of Tournai limestone, the building features a striking crossing tower and basilica-style nave, giving it a robust yet serene appearance. Inside, you'll find a baptismal font from 1601, a wooden statue of Christ from around 1700, and a beautiful stained-glass window depicting the baptism of Christ. The walled cemetery contains the gravestones of famous Ghent figures, including Count De Hemptinne and painter Karel De Bondt. I've included the dates.

On the banks of the Leie River, in the heart of picturesque Afsnee, stands St. John the Baptist Church—a historic gem with roots dating back to the 10th century. The church has a Romanesque core dating from the 12th century and has been renovated and restored several times over the centuries, while preserving its character. Constructed of Tournai limestone, the building features a striking crossing tower and basilica-style nave, giving it a robust yet serene appearance. Inside, you'll find a baptismal font dating from 1601, a wooden statue of Christ from around 1700, and a beautiful stained-glass window depicting the baptism of Christ. The walled cemetery contains the gravestones of famous Ghent figures, including Count De Hemptinne and painter Karel De Bondt.

The building was already mentioned in 939 but is probably even older. Afsnee is already mentioned around 850 in the goods of the St. Peter's Abbey at the time of King Lotharius. The church has undergone a number of renovations over the years. It shows a Romanesque core from the end of the 12th century, in the form of a Latin cross with a crossing tower. It was conceived as a three-aisled church (foundations were present) but it is suspected that only the central nave was built. Around 1767-68, L. De Villegas, master builder of the St. Peter's Abbey, restored the church and raised the gables and roofs. The wooden vault in the choir and nave was replaced by a plastered ceiling. In 1905-1906, thorough restorations took place under the direction of architect Auguste Van Assche, during which the side aisles were restored to their original state and other parts of the church were given a Romanesque appearance again. Quarry stone was used to rebuild the northern wall of the nave.