De Gavers cycling route

There is no shortage of recreational opportunities in this 20-hectare provincial domain at the foot of the Oudenberg, including for people with disabilities: the hiking and cycling trails are wide and paved flat, the indoor Gaverbad is accessible, and on the campsite (with one accessible bungalow), the sanitary facilities have been adapted. The landscaped swimming and beach area with playground, water sports such as surfing, kayaking, rowing or pedalo, and the tour boat attract water-lovers of every stripe. Something to eat or drink can be had in the cafeteria, or outside on the nice terrace.

This originally 13th-century walled abbey just outside the village centre of Grimminge is listed as a monument. It was once one of the most prominent Cistercian abbeys in the Low Countries. It was built on a 'bellum pratum' or 'lovely meadow' along the Dender. From that Latin name grew the name 'Beaupré'.

Near the Idegem lock, equipped with an authentic little metal drawbridge, you'll cycle past one of the country's few manually operated ferryboats. The ferryman pulls the ferry back and forth via two tensioned steel cables, which then sink back to the bottom of the Dender after he passes, to allow boats to pass. The ferry used to be used to transport cattle. These days, it’s primarily a fun attraction for cyclists and hikers on Sundays and holidays from May to September.