dark lake

The current landscape of Donkmeer was primarily shaped in the 18th and 19th centuries by peat formation. For centuries, nature had provided for peat formation in the soil of this former flood area of the Schelde. When peat extraction stopped, the formed pits gradually filled with water, creating the Berlaars and Overmeers Broek. The Berlaars Broek was first drained in 1862 and again after World War I to allow for afforestation with willows for basket weaving. The Overmeers Broek, on the other hand, was never drained and grew into today’s Donkmeer, a tourist attraction for water lovers, as well as for cyclists, walkers, and food enthusiasts. The current Donkmeer is largely located in the territory of the sub-municipality of Uitbergen.
Donkmeer is a 25-hectare water body that was primarily developed for water enthusiasts who come to swim, sail, or surf. A beach, a playground, and a cafeteria ensure that it is busy here in nice summer weather.
Tourism around Donkmeer was already initiated before World War I. Between the two World Wars, development officially started. Walking, fishing, sailing, and swimming were the main activities. Restaurants also became quite popular, and the eel gastronomy around Donkmeer was a significant attraction. Today, live eels are imported but still undergo a water treatment in the suitable water of Donkmeer. The lake can now be explored with rowboats, canoes, motorboats, and pedal boats. There is also a ferry that provides a connection with the zoo De Eendenkooi from the landing stage.

Lannoo