Lokeren: Mills, Nature and Water Experiences

Lokeren combines surprising nature experiences with a history of mills, culture and activities on the water. Those planning a trip with a variety of ideas for each day will find both protected landscapes and paths through the town centre, as well as special places connected to the town’s history.

A History of Mills and Architectural Discoveries

One prominent landmark is the Heirbrugmolen, a stone grain windmill dating from the mid-19th century. It is the only surviving mill of the nearly 50 mills that once stood in Lokeren. It therefore tells the story not only of a single building, but also of a bygone era in the town’s history. Those interested in culture can also visit Sint-Laurentiuskerk. The church acquired its present form between 1719 and 1725.

Another way to explore Lokeren at your own pace is the digital cultural heritage route “Villa's met hart en ziel”. It links Lokeren’s monumental villas and smaller castles. The route is 22 kilometres long and takes approximately two hours. This information helps you fit the tour into your daily itinerary; those who prefer a shorter walk in the town can choose the Parkenwandeling. It is approximately 5.5 kilometres long and leads through the centre of Lokeren.

Protected Landscapes and Paths through Nature

Het Molsbroek covers 122 hectares and is the largest protected wetland area in the Durme region. It is a major landscape highlight and suits a stay focused on nature observation and peaceful exploration. In Heidebos, visitors can observe rare plants and colourful butterflies. On a broad sandy ridge, plants and animals occur there that you would more commonly expect to find in the Kempen, including heather, nightjars and tree pipits. Heidebos also includes impressive avenues and the remains of an old fort.

For a relaxing time in nature, there is Bospark. It is a recreational and family park where visitors can go for walks and enjoy the greenery. Almost entirely designed as a play forest, Bospark has a sustainable wooden playground. This gives families a separate outing option alongside the longer cultural and nature routes.

Water, Cycling Routes and Local Experiences

At the water tourism centre in Prinses Josephine-Charlottepark, you can rent a kayak or canoe from Kajakcompany/Meersland. You will receive the necessary equipment and tips for the tour there. The “Het Neusje van de Durme” and “Lekker Lokeren” packages also combine a ride in electric boats, a stop at the village square in Daknam and a return to the landing stage at Prinses Josephine-Charlottepark. Culinary packages are also available.

Those who prefer to discover Lokeren by bicycle can include the Canteclaer cycling route in their plans. It leads through the area around Stekene, Moerbeke and Lokeren. When choosing your holiday rental or holiday home, it may therefore be important to decide whether you want to focus on nature, culture, cycling tours or water experiences.

Guidance for Planning Your Trip

The free Parktheaterfestival takes place in Prinses Josephine-Charlotte-Park, two minutes on foot from Lokeren train and bus station. This specific venue complements the quieter landscape experiences with a cultural option in the town. Depending on your interests, you can therefore shape your stay around a route, a visit to a park, a tour of mills and churches or an activity on the water.

The surrounding area also offers further destinations for your trip planning: Erpe-Mere, Sint-Gillis-Waas, Wachtebeke, Wetteren, Kruibeke, Horebeke, Zomergem and Deinze.

For the overarching travel overview: East Flanders.