First forts and castles.

The first stage of our (Sworks_1977 and myself) journey to the Three Countries Point from Antwerp. The other stages can be found in the linked group Antwerp - Three Countries Point.

This first route to Zandhoven is a mix of urban areas, nature, parks, and meadows. It's surprising how close to a major city you can still find greenery. Don't be put off by the first few paved kilometers; a city can be beautiful if you look a little further. From Antwerp station, we follow the city GR Antwerp to Rivierenhof. From there, we will often walk up and down the GR 565 (Sniederspad).

After Rivierenhof, we follow the valley of Groot Schijn and the municipal park of Wijnegem, after which we cross the Albertkanaal at the lock. The valley of Schijn continues further here. We pass Hof te Schilde at the old fortification and Vrieselhof. The fort of Oelegem is the last fortification before we end in Zandhoven.

The route runs over GR paths, junctions, and local walking paths, but also occasionally on unmarked paths. The use of a GPS is recommended.

With public transport at the start and finish, it is possible to place a camper along the way or stay overnight in another manner.