Maldegem: Heathland, History and Experiences

Maldegem combines distinctive heathland and forest landscapes with church art, railway history and farm experiences. In Maldegemveld, dry and wet heathland alternate with heathland scrub, nutrient-poor grasslands and oak-birch forests. The area is part of the Natura 2000 network, the European network of protected natural areas. When looking for a holiday apartment in Maldegem, you can start planning your trip by deciding whether nature and landscapes, cultural history or specific activities to enjoy together will be your main focus.

Heathland, forests and distinctive places

Drongengoed lies on the edge of Maldegem and mostly within Aalter (Ursel). Its precise location within the municipalities helps you put the area in context when exploring the landscape. At 28 metres, Kampel is the highest point in Maldegem; you can reach it by car, bicycle or on foot. In the centre, Sint-Annapark, laid out in the English landscape style, invites you to take a walk.

Art, a castle and wartime history

The Sint-Petrus- en Pauluskerk houses a 17th-century copy of the Bladelin Triptych, painted by Jan Ricx. Pieter Bladelin’s tomb and will are also located there. Sint-Annakasteel has been protected since 2004. The church thus offers specific points of connection to art and Bladelin’s history; the protected status of Sint-Annakasteel is a separate aspect of the cultural heritage.

The Canada and Poland War Museum is a private historical collection about the Second World War, dedicated to the service of Canadian and Polish soldiers in Belgium. The museum was founded in 1994 as a tribute to the Canadian and Polish liberators who fought at Leopoldskanaal in Adegem from 6 October 1944. The exhibition depicts the mobilisation, occupation and liberation of Flanders through lifelike dioramas. It includes 270 uniforms, weapons, radios, posters and other equipment, as well as an original 20-minute film about the Battle of the Scheldt.

Railways, regional produce and farm visits

Stoomtrein Maldegem-Eeklo offers rides on historic steam and diesel locomotives. Groups can book a rail package travelling from Maldegem to Eeklo on a historic diesel or steam train. For specific planning, check the operator’s timetable.

The artisanal wine producer Pomme Charelle makes its products from apples from the Meetjesland region, without chemical additives. Groups can book a guided tour, demonstration and tasting by arrangement. At Tea-Room De Canadees in the Tuinen van Adegem, British afternoon tea is served from Wednesday to Sunday between 2 and 5 pm. Reservations are required for groups of eight or more; check the details again before travelling.

At Ter Paddepoele, children of all ages experience life on and around the farm with all five senses: hearing, sight, touch, smell and taste. Visitors can sample fresh milk during their visit. A visit lasts about two hours; a full-day programme with extra time in the fields is also available. This lets you tailor the time commitment to your holiday plans: a visit of around two hours or a longer full-day outing.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Sint-Lievens-Houtem, Wachtebeke, Knesselare, Oosterzele, Maarkedal, Hoegaarden, Laarne, Hamme

Back to the main travel overview: East Flanders.