Drongen: Blaarmeersen and Assels route

This varied route starts at the Zuiderlaan parking in Ghent.
It is a journey that seamlessly connects the sporty character of the city with the serene tranquility of the Leiemeersen.
Although the full loop of 13.5 kilometers is highly recommended for those who enjoy a hearty hike, the route is flexible. Having a less energetic day or unable to complete the full distance? No worries: you can take shortcuts at various points by choosing an earlier crossing, allowing you to shorten the route without missing the most beautiful views.

1. Through the greenery of the Blaarmeersen
From the parking lot, you immediately dive into the recreational area De Blaarmeersen. You walk along the large pond where sports enthusiasts and nature lovers meet. The route takes you towards the Sneppebrug, the vital link that guides you safely over the Ringvaart and R4, away from the city's hustle and bustle.

2. The idyllic Assels and Drongen
Once over the bridge, you enter De Assels, a beautiful marshland area where time seems to stand still. Via the unpaved paths, you walk towards the village center of Drongen. This is the ideal moment for a well-deserved break. At the Drongenplein and along the Leie, you will find various cozy eateries such as Brasserie Aurelle or In den Karpel, where you can enjoy a coffee or local beer with a view of the passing boats.

3. Along the winding Leie
After the break, you cross the bridge over the Leie and follow the river downstream. You walk past the characteristic 'Drie Leien Punt', where various branches of the river converge. The route brings you near the ferry from Afsnee. Instead of crossing over to the picturesque village, you stay on the left bank and continue your way along the babbling river.

4. The hidden gems: Piereput, Boterput and Donkbosje
You leave the bank and turn left along an expansive meadow. Here you walk towards the Piereput and the Boterput, two natural treasures at the edge of the Assels. The landscape here is broad and calming. The walk continues through the charmingly small Donkbos near Pontstraat, a hidden green nook that is even unknown to many Ghent residents.

5. Return via the Meersen
Via the Sneppebrug, you return to the Ghent side. You walk through the Sneppemeersen, a wet nature area adorned with pollard willows. For those who can already feel their legs, De Waterkant in the Blaarmeersen is a perfect spot to relax by the water's edge.

6. The cherry on top: Over the Watersportbaan
For the true perseverants, the route continues a bit further along the Watersportbaan. The brand new Annie Vande Wielebrug (the impressive walking and cycling bridge) offers a stunning panorama over the water. The perfect conclusion to the day can be found on the other side at Brasserie Ô Gand, where you can discuss this versatile walk in a modern setting.

Practical restaurant stops on your route:
- Break halfway, around Drongenplein: various cafes and brasseries including Aurelle, Tronchiennes, Grand Café and Artevelde
- Cosy after enjoyment: De Waterkant (Blaarmeersen), Brasserie Ô Gand (Griendijk).