Attractions and Places To See around Merelbeke - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Merelbeke include a mix of local landmarks, cultural points of interest, and natural beauty. This municipality in East Flanders, Belgium, is characterized by lush greenery, gentle rolling hills, and fertile agricultural land. The region offers a serene and historically rich experience, with numerous hiking and cycling routes available for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Merelbeke
- The most popular attractions is St. Michael's Bridge, a bridge that offers panoramic views of Ghent's historic skyline, including the Saint Nicholas Church, the Belfry of Ghent, and Saint Bavo Cathedral. It was protected as a monument in 1983.
- Another must-see spot is Gravensteen Castle, a medieval fortress. This castle, dating back to 1180, once served as the residence for the Counts of Flanders and now functions as a museum.
- Visitors also love Graslei and Korenlei, Ghent, historic quays along the Leie River. These quays served as Ghent's port from the 11th to the 18th century and are known for their historic buildings and vibrant riverside atmosphere.
- Merelbeke is known for its diverse range of attractions, including historical landmarks, cultural sites, and expansive natural parks. The area provides a variety of places to see and explore, from ancient castles to serene riverfronts.
- The attractions around Merelbeke are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 790 upvotes and over 230 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
St. Michael's Bridge
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Graslei and Korenlei, Ghent
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The Leie (French Lys, Latin Legia) is a river that runs in France and Belgium. It rises in the municipality of Lisbourg (Flemish: Liegesboort), in the French department of Pas-de-Calais, generally drained in a northeasterly direction and flows for a total of 202 kilometers in the city of Ghent, in the Belgian province of East Flanders, as the left tributary of the Scheldt.
Source: Wikipedia
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leie
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Gravensteen Castle
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gravensteengent.be
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Ghent Town Hall
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Friday Market
Highlight • Historical Site
Of shop je gewoon suf in de winkels in de Serpentstraat of in de Baudelostraat. Snuister tussen de schat aan vintage lp’s en boeken. Puzzel de perfecte outfit bijeen in de vele hippe fashionstores. Hou even halt voor een verkwikkende thee. En laat je overspoelen door creatieve ideeën in de vele originele geschenkwinkels. Sommige zaakjes zijn echte juweeltjes, geloof ons. En krijg je trek? De restaurants op de Vrijdagmarkt zijn altijd vlakbij. En via de winkels in Oudburg wandel je het Patershol binnen, het culinaire hart van Gent.
De geschiedenis van de Vrijdagmarkt is een glanzende medaille met donkere keerzijde. Op het plein werden doorheen de eeuwen feesten gevierd. Vorsten plechtig ontvangen tijdens Blijde Inkomsten. En helaas ook executies uitgevoerd. Maar geen paniek, de brandstapels en guillotines zijn lang verleden tijd. De laatste openbare terechtstelling dateert van 1863. Het Toreken, dat er al stond in de 15de eeuw, is vrijwel het enige gebouw dat nog getuige was van gruwelpraktijken. De rest werd gebouwd in de negentiende eeuw. Het imposante socialistische volkshuis, dat Bond Moyson bloklettert op de gevel, werd zelfs pas begin 20ste eeuw opgetrokken.
Standbeeld Jacob van Artevelde
Jacob van Artevelde slaagde erin de boycot van de Engelse wolinvoer ongedaan te maken tijdens de 100-jarige oorlog tussen Engeland en Frankrijk in de 14de eeuw. De Gentse lakennijverheid kon herademen en van Artevelde werd een held. In 1345 werd hij tijdens een volksopstand vermoord. Sinds 1863 wijst hij op de Vrijdagmarkt richting Engeland.
Kan je maar niet genoeg krijgen van middeleeuwse verhalen? Vlakbij kan je een bezoekje brengen aan het Hof van Rijhove. Een authentieke Gentse patriciërswoning met een geschiedenis die teruggaat tot de 12de eeuw. Blijf je liever in de sfeer van het nabije verleden? Maak dan zeker de oversteek naar het Patershol. Het pittoreske Huis van Alijn over het water is echt de moeite! Dit pas vernieuwde museum – met zijn sfeervolle bijhorende volkscafeetje – is een nostalgische ontdekkingstocht voor alle zintuigen doorheen onze Vlaamse leefgewoontes en traditionele rituelen.
Bron: Visitgent
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Tips from the Community
The town hall has been the political centre of the city since the 14th century. And the city administration is still located here today. The town hall houses a wedding chapel, among other things. But even if you don't want to say "I do", you can visit the town hall during a guided tour. There are many historical places and buildings in Ghent. The old town hall is undoubtedly one of the most imposing and impressive of all. Bruges or Ghent?! Which is more beautiful? For me it was immediately clear, Ghent is without question much more beautiful 😍
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St. Michael's Bridge is the best place for romantics. Grab your smartphone and take a whole bunch of beautiful selfies. No matter which way you look, you are surrounded by the charming beauty of Ghent. Another magical view of Ghent is when all the historical sights are beautifully lit up at nightfall. St. Michael's Bridge used to be a swing bridge, but in the early 20th century it was replaced by an arched stone bridge. In the middle of the arch there is a very beautiful lantern with a bronze statue of St. Michael. I think it is one of the prettiest places in Ghent. St. Michael's Bridge is a very special moment on your weekend in Ghent.
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The beauty of the Graslei enchants everyone. The beautiful gabled houses are reflected in the Leie. Visitors and residents can enjoy the peace and quiet on both banks of the river. Sit on the quay and not only stretch your legs, but also relax your soul. Or you can find a nice spot in one of the many street cafés.
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The town hall of Ghent is a five-hundred-year-old building complex and definitely worth seeing.
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The Graslei is a historic street in the center. This street forms the quay on the right bank of the Leie, opposite the Korenlei on the left bank. From the 11th to the 18th century, the Graslei and the Korenlei formed the port of Ghent. Each house on the Graslei has its own history and bears witness to the flourishing of Ghent trade in the Middle Ages. It is a beautiful place to visit, with its historic buildings and vibrant riverside life. It is also the location of the popular Restaurant De Graslei, known for its Belgian culinary specialties.
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Life is in full swing here. There is always something going on, lots of sights, great restaurants and definitely take a river cruise!
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When the sun is shining, lined with the small bars along the way, simply fantastic...
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The most beautiful view of Ghent's sights is from the middle of the bridge: St. Nicholas' Church, the Belfry and St. Bavo's Cathedral.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Merelbeke?
Merelbeke offers a variety of natural beauty, including the expansive
Park Molenhoek, with its well-maintained paths, towering trees, and wildflowers, suitable for hiking. For more scenic views and wildlife, the Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve provides trails through marshlands. The region is also characterized by lush greenery, gentle rolling hills, and fertile agricultural land intersected by streams and rivers, perfect for outdoor activities.
Are there good hiking opportunities near Merelbeke?
Yes, Merelbeke is a popular region for hiking. You can find various trails, including easy and moderate options. For example, the Hiking around Merelbeke guide features routes like the 'Asselkouter Route' (moderate, 12.5 km) and the 'Makegemse Bossen – Marcel Van Miegroet Boardwalk loop' (easy, 6.4 km).
What cycling routes are available in the Merelbeke area?
Merelbeke offers diverse cycling opportunities. For gravel biking, the Gravel biking around Merelbeke guide highlights routes such as the 'Gentbrugse Meersen and Schelderoute Loop' (easy, 24.5 km). Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore trails like the 'Route Merelbeke - Mountain biking around Ghent' (moderate, 26.8 km) found in the MTB Trails around Merelbeke guide.
What historical landmarks can I visit in Merelbeke itself?
Within Merelbeke, you can visit the baroque-style Saint Anne's Church, constructed between 1641 and 1663. Another notable site is Bunker D14, part of the Bruggenhoofd Gent defensive line. The area also features Castle Ter Zinkt in Munte, which was once a medieval water castle, and the historical Old Zeppelin Hangar of Gontrode from World War I.
Are there cultural sites or museums in Merelbeke?
While Merelbeke is rich in historical landmarks, for specific cultural sites and museums, you might consider the College of Melle, which houses two museums for its students. For broader cultural experiences, the nearby city of Ghent offers numerous options, including the Gravensteen Castle, which now functions as a museum.
What historical sites are notable in the sub-municipality of Schelderode?
Schelderode is a protected village scape with several notable monuments. You can visit the Sint-Martinuskerk, with its oldest stone parts dating back to the 14th century, featuring a 16th-century sculpture group of Saint Martin. Also, explore Kasteel Ten Dale, a neo-Gothic, medieval-inspired castle built in 1864-1865, and the historic Pastorie, an 18th-century rectory known for Belgium's thickest medlar tree in its garden.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Merelbeke?
Yes, many attractions around Merelbeke are suitable for families. The St. Michael's Bridge in Ghent offers panoramic views that children might enjoy. Gravensteen Castle is a medieval fortress that can be an exciting visit for all ages. Additionally, natural areas like Park Molenhoek provide easy walking paths perfect for families.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions near Merelbeke?
Visitors frequently appreciate the blend of historical significance and natural beauty. The St. Michael's Bridge is loved for its postcard views of Ghent's three towers. The Graslei and Korenlei are cherished for their vibrant riverside atmosphere and historic buildings. The overall serene and historically rich experience, coupled with numerous hiking and cycling routes, is highly valued by the komoot community.
What is the best time of year to enjoy Merelbeke's natural landscapes?
The lush greenery and agricultural landscapes of Merelbeke are beautiful throughout the warmer months, typically from spring to early autumn. Spring brings wildflowers to places like Park Molenhoek, while summer and early autumn are ideal for hiking and cycling through the region's gentle rolling hills and nature reserves like Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen.
Can I find dog-friendly outdoor areas in Merelbeke?
Merelbeke's numerous green spaces and agricultural landscapes, including many hiking and cycling routes, are generally welcoming for dogs. Specific nature reserves or parks may have leash requirements, so it's always best to check local signage. The extensive network of streams and rivers also provides pleasant walking opportunities with your dog.
Are there any easy or beginner-friendly walking routes in Merelbeke?
Yes, Merelbeke offers several easy walking routes. Park Molenhoek is particularly suitable for beginners and families due to its well-maintained paths. Additionally, the Hiking around Merelbeke guide lists routes like the 'Makegemse Bossen – Marcel Van Miegroet Boardwalk loop' and the 'Marcel Van Miegroet Boardwalk – Makegemse Bossen loop' which are rated as easy.
Where can I find parking near attractions in Merelbeke?
Parking availability varies by attraction. For specific local landmarks within Merelbeke, street parking or small designated lots may be available. For attractions in nearby Ghent, such as Gravensteen Castle or the Graslei and Korenlei, it is advisable to use public parking garages in the city center and then walk or use public transport to reach the sites.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the attractions or trails in Merelbeke?
Merelbeke has local cafes and restaurants, particularly in its town center. Along popular hiking and cycling routes, you might find establishments in smaller villages or near specific points of interest. For a wider selection, the nearby city of Ghent, especially around the Graslei and Korenlei or Friday Market, offers numerous dining options.
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Most popular attractions around Merelbeke
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