Picnic area Zorgvliet Ruddervoorde

These benches form a small picnic area on the Zorgvliet domain near the entrance to the car park.

Anyone who walks in the Zorgvliet area today will find many remnants of a long and eventful history . Remains of a castle, walled garden , outbuildings, pond and checkered swimming pool give an idea of how it used to be.

The country house "Villa Zorgvliet " dates from the second half of the 19th century and was built by the owner Charles Marie de Croeser. This villa became the scene of a number of significant events during the First and Second World Wars . During the First World War the domain was occupied and the house was occupied by German soldiers. Most trees were cleared for the war effort. A prison camp was located in the adjacent Munkebossen . After the Second World War, the "Villa" was struck by lightning in 1946 or 1947 and almost completely burned out . Ironically, the castle got its name from "let sorrows flow". The outbuildings were destroyed by two fires in 1982 and 1985.

The domain passed into the hands of the municipality of Oostkamp in 1999 and this 23-hectare forest domain has been completely renovated and is now one of Oostkamp's most beautiful natural jewels. Zorgvliet is a nature area 2000, which means that the valuable plants, animals and their habitat are protected here at European level. Various signs inform you about the special features of the various places during your hike. Children can also let off steam in the play forest.

The ponds were restored and the icehouse became a roost for bats . Natuurpunt sometimes organizes bat migrations.

There are also a number of geocaches hidden around the property for those who enjoy doing it. By discovering everything, you explore the domain in a fun way.

Willem Vandenameele