Rupelmonde is the city where the famous carthographer Mercator was born and the water castle that the counts of Flanders had built in the twelfth century. This walk will introduce you to the beautiful surroundings on the banks of the Scheldt and the wilderness of the Steendorp fortress.
Distance: 13 km.
Time: 3h30.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: No.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed.
Height gain: Flat.
Trail: Paved and unpaved.
Marking: Hexagon with green inscription.
Hiking shoes recommended.
Schouselbroek.
The walk starts in Rupelmonde, the city that is closely connected with the moated castle that the counts of Flanders had built in the twelfth century. You walk along the banks of the Scheldt and then go through the nature reserve Schouselbroek and Gelaagpark. The fortress of Steendorp was built out of brick in the 19th century to protect the Scheldt City of Antwerp. Today, bats demand the fortress, for them it is an important wintering place. In the nature house you can enjoy during the season a local beer that is very appropriately called Briqville.
On the dike, you have to take in account that there are often many cyclists.
POI 1 - Schouselbroek.
The Schouselbroek nature reserve is located between Temse and Steendorp on the Scheldt. The nature area includes both the Schouselbroek, the Oost-Sivepolder and the slope between the Steendorp Fort and the polder. On the territory of the municipality of Temse, there will be a controlled flood area with controlled reduced tides as part of the Sigma plan. This not only improves safety in the immediate vicinity; the towns and villages are also better protected. The flood area will store the Scheldt water at extremely high water levels. The current nature reserve will develop into a valuable mudflat and marsh area thanks to the game of ebb and flow.
Natuurpunt.
www.natuurpunt.be.
POI 2 - Fortress of Steendorp.
The 20-hectare Fortress of Steendorpwas built from brick in the 19th century to protect the Scheldt City of Antwerp. Today, bats demand the fortress, for them it is an important wintering place. Every winter there are about 1200 specimens! A unique walking trail leads you along the remains of this impressive structure.
Natuur en Bos.
www.natuurenbos.be.