48 hours Dendermonde & Berlare

The Medieval town of Dendermonde in Scheldeland lies almost at the heart, between Antwerp, Ghent and Mechelen. It's a town that we, as Dutch people, had heard of, but we had never been there. So we did something about that. The lively centre, where the magnificent Belfry stands guard, and surrounded by the most beautiful nature, provided a weekend of fun entertainment. And we wouldn't want you to miss the experience. At 10am we jumped in the car and drove off to one of the most pleasant towns in Scheldeland!

1pm: cycle ride to Donkmeer in Berlare

Discovering the area of Dendermonde? There's only one way to do it: on your bike. The range of cycling routes in the area is so abundant and you just want to do them all. We finally selected the Dendermonde Cycling route, which takes you along the Scheldt to Donkmeer in Berlare. Donkmeer is one of the largest lakes in Flanders, and is surrounded by meadows, woods and marshes. Did you know: 30% of the area around the lake is protected nature reserve. You can explore the remaining 56 hectares completely at your own pace. Parking your bike and going for a walk is a definite must here. And that's exactly what we did! 

The Donkmeer Walking route goes around the lake and is about 5km long. So it's easy (also for those less mobile!) and certainly in such a setting, as the perfect balance between water and green. Among the eye-catchers along the way is the new Duck Decoy, the recently renovated home to a whole host of (water) birds. In addition to ducks, we saw herons and storks. The restored Duck Decoy is very unique in Belgium. It's rather like an open-air museum where you learn more about the history and running of the decoy, and also more about the man in charge. 

Is the sun appearing from behind the clouds? Then we recommend walking to the Provincial Recreation Domain Nieuwdonk. You can take a dip in the refreshing swimming pond, before having a rest on the beach. Don't like sand between your toes? Just behind you, there's the lovely grass meadow instead. Book at the ready, headphones on and time to relax. Be sure to leave time for the exquisite eel delicacies in the restaurants around Donkmeer and pop into the Onthaalpoort (tourist info) Donkmeer for more inspiration. 

Is the sun appearing from behind the clouds? Then we recommend walking to the Provincial Recreation Domain Nieuwdonk. You can take a dip in the refreshing swimming pond, before having a rest on the beach. Don't like sand between your toes? Just behind you, there's the lovely grass meadow instead. Book at the ready, headphones on and time to relax. Be sure to leave time for the exquisite eel delicacies in the restaurants around Donkmeer and pop into the Onthaalpoort (tourist info) Donkmeer for more inspiration. 

5pm: a stroll in the heart of Dendermonde

The area around Dendermonde: check! Now it's time to check out the town centre. We soon ended up in the charming St Alexius beguinage, nestling secretly in the heart of the town. The tiny old church is encircled by a lawn and 61 little houses, with the sweetest facades. Although you will no longer spot the beguine nuns wandering around, the Beguinage Museum will tell you more about this former community in Dendermonde. The large lawn is also the perfect place for a picnic. After all, what beats setting out the picnic blanket in a peaceful spot? Alternatively, after your visit, go and get a drink in one of the bars within walking distance. 

For the best view of the town you'll need to climb 109 steps. And you'll find those in the Belfry, which you can't miss on the Grote Markt. The Belfry has towered above the town hall ever since the 14th century. From the top you get a wonderful view of the town and its surroundings.

7pm: dinner at Barley’s

And after all that excitement it was time for something tasty. So we went to the pleasant and trendy restaurant on the Grote Markt: to Barley’s. The extensive cocktail menu got the evening off to a good start. And the fun continued with the starters to share. Edamame! Pulled pork! Kibbeling! Nachos! You can actually order an apero box with lots of nibbles, including two cocktails. Perfect if you just want to sit down and relax somewhere lovely.

9pm: Delightful accommodation at B&B Adamas

After a wonderful evening we headed off to our accommodation: B&B Adamas, which we would recommend to anyone. We have rarely received a warmer welcome than here from Valerie and Marc. The name 'Adamas' refers to the most beautiful gem: the diamond. The first floor of the 19th-century building has three guest rooms: Saffier, Robijn and Smaragd. (Sapphire, Ruby and Emerald) On the lower floor there is a cosy lounge. The breakfast was a hit: on the table, we literally found everything we fancied. And when the sun shines, breakfast is served on the flowery terrace in the garden 

10am: SUP yoga on the Old Dender

After a wonderful night in B&B Adamas we were all set for the day and an exciting activity: SUP yoga! We've all heard of yoga, but this time it was done while floating on a SUP (stand-up paddle) on the Old Dender. This flows through the centre of Dendermonde, making it the perfect place to launch a SUP or kayak. We rented them from Venga by the way. For us, the morning SUP yoga session was the perfect way to start the day: in the sunshine and in an idyllic setting. Initially it seemed a challenge not to fall in the water, but fortunately that didn't happen. Dry and relaxed, we set foot on the shores of Dendermonde once again. 

12 noon: street art in the centre 

In the historic town centre you will see a unique street art project, comprising 12 large, decorated horses' heads. Horses' what?! You read it correctly. And the choice of horses is no coincidence. It has to do with the saga of the legendary Bayard Steed, Ros Beiaard to his friends. Once every ten years, the Parade of the Bayard Steed takes place in the town. The next one is in May 2030.

The complete gold-coloured horse's head, right in the middle of the Grote Markt, was our favourite. Although the colourful head in Stationsstraat was another that caught our attention. Plan a route from horse to horse? This map is a handy tool. 

Your own weekend in Dendermonde - Berlare? Discover the nicest places to stay in Dendermonde and nearby. Or read the full story on the blog by Travel Valley.