Cycling between the Dender and Scheldt

The Denderstreek is a region in the province of East Flanders. The region takes its name from the 65 kilometer long river Dender that flows into the Scheldt. The Dender meanders through the fairly flat green landscape. It is surrounded by low-lying lakes, with alternating natural swamp areas and poplar plantations. While the river used to have mainly an economic function, now it is mainly used for pleasure yachts. You cycle through the polder to the left bank of the Dender. After a few kilometers you enter the old fortified town of Dendermonde where the Scheldt and Dender meet. On the Grote Markt you will find many sights, such as the fourteenth century town hall and former meat house. Dendermonde is best known for its Ros Carillon. The centuries-old horse only passes through the streets once every 10 years with 4 local children on its back. You continue your journey along the banks of the Scheldt. The Scheldt originates in the north of France and ultimately flows into the North Sea via the Western Scheldt. Like every river, the Scheldt has been of great economic and strategic importance over the centuries. The Romans braved the cold and wet climate to their taste to sail to Britannia via the Scheldt. The Vikings used the river as a gateway on their raids in the surrounding regions. The princes then built fortifications to protect themselves against the Nordic raiders. In Lede you cycle past the place where such a fortification once stood, Mesen Castle. In 2013, after years of futile struggle by all kinds of monument organizations and architecture enthusiasts, it was decided to demolish the ruin to make way for new construction. You drive along the banks of the Scheldt through a unique nature reserve. The river may have been fairly tamed, but it has left its mark on the landscape over the centuries. You will see many mud flats and salt marshes that are very valuable for water birds. You will also find willows, reeds, bank sedges and celandine. Driving through the wet forests you will see a rare swamp vegetation that includes ferns, swamp thistles and snakeroot. Many poplars, but also willow and ash grow in the polders. The nightingale, cuckoo and jay feel at home here.