Moerbeke-Waas: Heathland, Water and History

Moerbeke-Waas brings together waterways and traces of its transport history with heathland, forest and protected natural areas. The Moervaart, the Vapeurbrug and the landscapes around Heidebos and Pereboomsgat each offer a different perspective. The town therefore offers more than a single holiday theme: you can be interested in walking, nature or architectural history, and tailor your holiday-home search to the experiences that matter most to you.

Waterways and Architectural History

Until the first half of the 19th century, the Moervaart in Moerbeke was an important transport and trade route because of the lack of paved roads. The waterway is therefore part of the town’s transport history. The Vapeurbrug in Moerbeke is another reminder of earlier infrastructure: the 20-metre-long lifting bridge recalls the former Lokeren–Zelzate railway line and is a protected monument.

The Parochiekerk Sint-Antonius abt is also a protected monument. It is a three-aisled hall church; its nave, with eight bays, dates from around 1300 and was altered around 1690. This sequence makes two distinct building phases tangible: the medieval nave was followed by later alterations. The village centre of Moerbeke is also included in the demarcation of the Moervaartdepressie.

Heathland, Forest and Waterscapes

In the Pereboomsgat area, a walking route runs alongside stretches of water, reed beds and dense scrub. There are also calming, far-reaching views that help shape the character of the route. Pereboomsgat is also a remnant of medieval flooding. Here, a scenic walk meets a landscape history that stretches far back in time.

Heidebos combines heathland and forest, a rare combination in the surrounding area. The signposted walks there range from 4 to 10 kilometres. The different route lengths help you choose a walk to suit the distance you want, without suggesting a particular walking time or level of difficulty. Galloway cattle graze freely in Heidebos to prevent encroaching forest from overgrowing the heathland.

The Turfmeersen in Moerbeke is a nature reserve in the valley between the Moervaart and Zuidlede. The landscape here therefore offers a different connection to water than the historic trade route: the two waterways define the reserve’s geographical setting. Routes, access and grazing arrangements can change, so check the latest information before visiting.

Exploring by Water and by Bike

Visitors can rent kayaks or canoes on the Moervaart and travel along the river. This adds a present-day activity to the waterway’s historical significance. Providers and availability may change, so it is a good idea to confirm what is on offer in advance.

Cycling is another option: the Tussen Moervaart en Zuidlede cycling route passes through Moerbeke. If you prefer walking, Heidebos has signposted routes between 4 and 10 kilometres; if you would rather take to the water, you can follow the Moervaart. This helps you pin down the focus of your planned holiday before you look for a holiday home. If you are cycling the route, it is advisable to check the latest route conditions.

When choosing a holiday home, you can consider what kind of day out matters most to you: a walk, a cycle ride, a canoe trip or time spent exploring the area’s architectural and transport history. These different options offer practical guidance for your search without requiring you to commit to just one kind of stay.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Sint-Niklaas, Waarschoot, Horebeke, Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Temse, Zelzate, Hoegaarden, Melle.

For the overview of the wider region: East Flanders.