Wonderful Waasland
A secret tip for a superb holiday
Experience an unforgettable adventure in the Waasland: a stunning, unique region that lies between Antwerp, Brussels, Ghent and the Dutch border. Here, you will follow the Scheldt, Durme and Moervaart rivers and experience the contrast between nature and industry, welcoming cities and friendly villages, old forts and modern architecture. Curious? Welcome to the Waasland!
An oasis of calm between Antwerp and Ghent
The Waasland lies in central Flanders between the cultural hubs of Antwerp and Ghent, and close to the border of the Netherlands. Brussels, Bruges and the Belgian coastline are all just an hour's drive away. And best of all: you can still find sleepy villages here, hidden amongst the lush landscape. It's the ideal base to explore Flanders at your leisure. Not only that, the region itself has a lot of surprises in store...
Go with the flow
Creeks, canals, ponds, dykes and wide rivers meander through the Waasland. From the water, you get a completely different perspective on the contrasting landscape. Hop on a canal boat and cruise past charming villages and natural beauty, or set your own pace in a canoe or kayak. A useful tip is deWaterbus that sails to or from the Antwerp city centre every 30 minutes. With the wind in your hair and the view of the mighty Scheldt: this is yet another experience you can cross off your must-see list. Do you prefer an activity by the water's edge? There are numerous hiking trails along the unspoilt banks of the Waasland's waterways. Or take a bike and follow the special Go with the flow cycling route.
Beyond Borders
The eventful history of the Waasland region is still visible in the landscape today. The border with the Netherlands was fiercely fought over in the past, proudly defended and often recaptured. Ancient forts are a reminder of those turbulent times. Today, you can cycle or enjoy a stroll through areas that were once the dominion of smugglers and generals. The Stropersbos, Grenspark, the port area and the Koningsdijk: all have an inspiring history. Immerse yourself in this history, cycle through the past haunts of smugglers or walk through the drowned land of Saeftinghe: once a prosperous region with picturesque villages, but long since reclaimed by water and marsh. Accept the invitation to explore and expand your horizons in the Waasland!
Creative minds
The Waasland region is known for peaceful relaxation, but it has also been a creative and inventive region for centuries. Cities such as Sint-Niklaas, Beveren or Lokeren are home to many cultural treasures. Or take in the Verbeke Foundation, with over 12 acres of nature reserve, 20,000 square metres of covered exhibition space, and an outdoor park with art that will leave you gasping in amazement. Go in search of sundials in Rupelmonde, the birthplace of Gerard Mercator, inventor of the atlas. And don't forget the region's culinary creativity: from the classic brasserie to the inventive haute cuisine, you'll find it here. Discover traditional Waasland cuisine, feast on seasonal dishes or sample a locally brewed beer.
Hidden treasures
Want to explore some truly untrodden paths? In the Waasland, you can still find many special places where you seem to have the kingdom all to yourself. Experience the atmosphere of the desolate village of Doel, once sacrificed to harbour expansion, now a draw for Urban Explorers. A very photogenic experience, with lots of street art and the atmosphere of a village where time stood still. It's the perfect setting for films and photoshoots.
There are many other experiences: a fairytale moated castle with a suspension bridge, a fortress full of bats, a watchtower in one of the last quiet areas in East Flanders, a centuries-old castle estate with magnificent architecture or the Kieldrecht lock, the largest lock in the world! Stroll through alleyways in Lokeren, discover the art deco façades in Sint-Niklaas or have your bike consecrated in Klein-Sinaai and visit the little church with the shirts of all the great cycling champions. All of these are special places; sometimes charming and sometimes eccentric, but always with a unique vibe.
Extend the experience
As you can see, there is plenty to do in the Waasland for those looking for something a little more special. Will you go for rest, relaxation, culinary delights or cultural pleasure – or all of that together? Our top tip: extend your visit with a few more days in one of the many cosy BnBs or quaint boutique hotels in the area. There many kinds to choose from, often with special extras such as spa packages and culinary experiences, from lofts to authentic farmhouses right next to a forest. Imagine waking up with a view of the lambs hopping in the meadow, a hearty breakfast with farm- and regional produce, and then a gentle start to the day: what more could you want?