Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve
A serene nature reserve perfect for birdwatching, walking, and biking, featuring accessible paths and abundant waterfowl.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve
Best Time
Peak wildlife activity
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene nature reserve perfect for birdwatching, walking, and biking, featuring accessible paths and abundant waterfowl.
"Beautiful chill out park to relax walk jog and meet animals and birds."
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant waterfowl and enjoying the rich birdlife.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Paths are generally easy, but good for walking, jogging, or biking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Waterfowl Wonderland
Ponds and canals
Spot a variety of wild ducks, geese, teals, and swans in their natural habitat. A paradise for birdwatchers!

Bird Observation Huts
Various locations
Strategically placed huts offer fantastic, unobstructed views of the diverse birdlife and surrounding landscapes.

Nature Center
Central area
Learn about local flora and fauna, attend workshops, or grab a coffee and snack at this informative hub.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Wild
Accessibility & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Looking for nice places to walk
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant waterfowl and enjoying the rich birdlife.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Paths are generally easy, but good for walking, jogging, or biking.
Less popular places to visit by car
Favourite jogging routes?
Check Nature Center Programs 📅
Workshops and events can enhance your visit.
Wheelchair Friendly Paths ♿
Many routes are accessible, making it enjoyable for everyone.
Does anybody know a spot ?
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Binoculars! 🔭
Essential for spotting distant waterfowl and enjoying the rich birdlife.
Wear Comfortable Shoes 👟
Paths are generally easy, but good for walking, jogging, or biking.
Check Nature Center Programs 📅
Workshops and events can enhance your visit.
Wheelchair Friendly Paths ♿
Many routes are accessible, making it enjoyable for everyone.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen Nature Reserve as a beautiful and peaceful escape, perfect for walks, jogging, and birdwatching. The accessibility of many paths is a significant plus, and the on-site cafe adds convenience. Some note a lack of large trees, but the rich waterfowl and natural atmosphere are consistently praised.
"Very beautiful place, full of wonderful birds. Perfect place to go for a walk. Some parts are also wheelchair accesible.
There is a small cafe where you can have some drinks and snacks as well as a free toilet. The staff was very friendly."
Saiko _
"Beautiful chill out park to relax walk jog and meet animals and birds"
Franz MeladOro Luxury Food Expert (meladoro_fra)
"That's a great place to go for a walk, beautiful and peaceful, you can have meditation here"
Yuana Tan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The reserve is accessible by car, offering a less crowded alternative to central Ghent attractions. Parking is available nearby, making it a convenient option for exploring further afield.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in the provided information, it's generally recommended to check local Ghent transit schedules for bus or tram options that may serve the area.
Yes, biking is a popular activity in the reserve, and it's a great way to explore the paths and enjoy the scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The nature reserve is generally free to enter, allowing for accessible nature exploration for all visitors.
As a nature reserve, it's typically open from dawn till dusk, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific seasonal hours or access restrictions.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The reserve is renowned for its waterfowl, including wild ducks, geese, teals, and swans. You can also spot other birds and native plants.
Yes, there are many small paths that converge, making it pleasant for hiking and jogging. Most are wheelchair accessible.
Yes, many parts of the reserve are wheelchair accessible, including some of the walking paths and observation areas.
The nature center offers workshops, books for sale, and a cafe where you can get drinks and snacks.
While specific picnic areas aren't mentioned, the cafe provides a place to rest and refresh. The peaceful atmosphere is conducive to relaxation.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a small cafe located within the nature center that serves drinks and snacks.
While not explicitly stated, picnicking is generally permitted in nature reserves. However, it's always best to be mindful of leaving no trace.
📸 📸 Photography
The observation huts offer excellent vantage points for bird photography. The ponds and open grasslands also provide scenic opportunities throughout the year.
A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing clear shots of birds and other wildlife from a distance. Binoculars are also a great companion for spotting subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Nature Walkers & Joggers
🐦 Birdwatchers & Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Birdwatching Paradise
The reserve's commitment to preserving natural habitats ensures a rich ecosystem. Labels and descriptions, though primarily in Dutch, offer insights into the local flora and fauna, enhancing the educational aspect of your visit. Experiencing the calls of different birds and observing their behaviors in a peaceful setting is a highlight for many. The changing seasons also bring different species, making it a rewarding place to visit year-round, though spring and summer are particularly vibrant.
Accessibility and Visitor Comfort
Beyond the accessible trails, the reserve offers practical amenities to enhance visitor comfort. A small cafe located within the nature center provides a convenient spot to grab refreshments and snacks, and free restrooms are available. This thoughtful provision ensures that visitors can spend more time enjoying the surroundings without worrying about basic needs. The friendly staff at the cafe further contribute to a positive and welcoming atmosphere.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit