Eeklo Travel Guide

Discover Eeklo's cultural and natural attractions, outdoor adventures, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, best time to visit, transportation options, and nearby destinations with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Eeklo

Eeklo, a charming city in East Flanders, is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore both historical and natural attractions in Belgium. Eeklo has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several museums and historical sites. The city is also surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, offering outdoor adventurers a variety of activities such as hiking and biking, scenic drives, and water sports. Eeklo is also famous for its delicious cuisine and warm hospitality. This travel guide will provide an in-depth look at all the must-visit sights, the best things to do, and where to stay when visiting Eeklo.

List of Places to Visit in Eeklo

Eeklo has plenty of attractions that tourists can visit. The following list details some of the city’s must-see sights:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • St. Vincent’s Church: A beautiful Gothic-style church whose construction dates back to the 13th century.
  • Eeklo Town Hall: A stunning example of Flemish architecture dating back to the 15th century.
  • Eeklo Railway Station: Built-in 1861, the station still retains its original grandeur and is a popular spot for history buffs.
  • Museum of Deinze and the Leie Region: A museum dedicated to contemporary and modern art, located in the nearby town of Deinze.
  • Het Leen Provincial Domain and Museum: A vast natural parkland that includes a botanic garden, a museum showcasing the history of forestry, and a nature reserve.

Natural Attractions of Eeklo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Boerekreek Recreational Park: A natural recreation park where visitors can enjoy fishing, windsurfing, and swimming.
  • Lovers’ Lake: A beautiful lake surrounded by lush greenery and a popular spot for picnics and romantic walks.
  • Drongengoed Nature Reserve: A vast area of woodlands and heath where visitors can enjoy walking, biking, and even horse-riding.
  • Meetjeslandse Kreken: A haven for bird watchers, this marshlands area lets visitors see a wide variety of birds and other wildlife.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eeklo

Eeklo is perfect for those who love hiking and biking. The following are some of the city’s best routes:

  • Boerekreek to Knokke-Heist cycling route: A 40 km scenic route that takes you through rolling hills, picturesque villages, and scenic coastal vistas.
  • Drongengoedbos walking trail: A 7 km walking trail through the Drongengoed nature reserve which leads to the highest dune in Belgium.
  • Eeklo Green Belt: A 23 km cycling route that encircles the city, taking visitors through forests, along waterways, and through charming villages.

Best Things to Do in Eeklo: Activities and Tours

Apart from exploring cultural and natural attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Eeklo. Here is a list:

  • Take a guided tour of the St. Vincent’s Church to learn about its architectural and historical importance.
  • Go on a bike tour to explore the picturesque countryside of East Flanders.
  • Take a boat tour at Boerekreek Recreational Park and enjoy the stunning views over the lake.
  • Visit the local breweries and try some of the famous Belgian beers.
  • Attend one of the local festivals or events, such as the Eeklo Beer Festival held every September.

Week-Long Itinerary for Eeklo

To make the most of your visit to Eeklo, we have prepared a one-week itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the St. Vincent’s Church and Eeklo Town Hall.
Day 2 Explore the Het Leen Provincial Domain and Museum.
Day 3 Go on a scenic bike ride to Meetjeslandse Kreken.
Day 4 Take a walking trail through the Drongengoed nature reserve.
Day 5 Visit the Museum of Deinze and the Leie Region.
Day 6 Enjoy water sports at Boerekreek Recreational Park.
Day 7 Go on a boat tour of Boerekreek and sample Belgian beers in local breweries.

Note: You can always adjust the itinerary depending on your interests and the time of year.

Food and Drink Scene of Eeklo

Eeklo’s cuisine is renown for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. It is no wonder that the city has become a foodie destination in recent years. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Carbonnade flamande: A hearty beef stew braised in local beer and served with fries.
  • Waterzooi: A creamy fish or chicken soup thickened with egg yolks and cream.
  • Tomate aux crevettes: A warm starter made with juicy seasonal tomatoes filled with tiny North Sea grey shrimp.
  • Waffles and chocolates: Belgium is famous for its waffles and chocolates, and Eeklo is no exception.

Local Beverages

  • Belgian beers: Eeklo has a great selection of Belgian beers ranging from light lagers to dark ales and specialty Trappist beers.
  • Jenever: A local Gin that is popular across Belgium.

Where to Stay in Eeklo: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eeklo has plenty of accommodation options to fit every need and budget. Here are some great options:

  • Hotel Shamon: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, featuring elegant rooms and a top-notch restaurant.
  • B&B Villa De Keyser: A cozy and intimate B&B that offers comfortable rooms and delicious breakfast.
  • Hostel De Zon: A budget-friendly option located near the railway station, featuring simple and clean rooms.

What to Buy in Eeklo: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Eeklo, you can buy locally made products as souvenirs or gifts. Here are some of the things you should check out:

  • Belgian chocolate: Eeklo is famous for its artisanal chocolate shops that offer chocolates in all shapes and sizes.
  • Beer glassware: A perfect souvenir or gift for beer lovers. You can buy a variety of beer glasses and sets from local shops.
  • Local crafts: Eeklo has many artisans who make and sell unique handcrafted items such as pottery, jewelry, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Eeklo

Eeklo has a rich local culture and traditions that visitors can learn about during their visit. Here are some customs to keep in mind:

  • Belgians are punctual, so make sure to arrive on time to any appointments or events.
  • Shake hands when meeting someone new, and say “Bonjour” or “Bonsoir,” depending on the time of day.
  • Belgians take pride in their language and culture, so it might be appreciated if you try to learn a few words of French or Dutch.

Best Time to Visit Eeklo

Eeklo has mild weather all year round, but the best time to visit is from April to September. This is the time when the weather is warm and sunny, and outdoor activities are in full swing. Keep in mind that summer can be busy, so make sure to book your accommodation and activities in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eeklo

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Eeklo:

Do:

  • Respect the customs and culture of the locals.
  • Try some of the famous Belgian beers and chocolates.
  • Take a stroll along the city’s streets and enjoy the local architecture and parks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t disrespect religion or any cultural practice.
  • Don’t be late for appointments or meetings.

Safety and Health

Eeklo is a safe city for visitors, but it’s always better to take precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Eeklo

  • Keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded areas.
  • Avoid walking in isolated areas alone, especially at night.
  • Respect the traffic rules and signals when walking or driving.

Health in Eeklo

  • Belgium has excellent medical facilities, and Eeklo has a local hospital and several clinics.
  • Make sure to have proper insurance coverage for any medical eventuality.
  • Check the local weather conditions before embarking on any outdoor adventure.

Getting to Eeklo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Eeklo is easily accessible from surrounding cities in Belgium and other parts of Europe. Here are some transport options:

  • Air: Eeklo is approximately 85 km from the Brussels airport, and it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by car or train to reach the city.
  • Train: Eeklo has a railway station with direct trains running from Antwerp and Ghent.
  • Bus: There are several bus connections to Eeklo from Ghent and Bruges.
  • Car: Eeklo can be reached via the E34 motorway that connects Zeebrugge with the Dutch border.

How to Get Around in Eeklo

Eeklo is a small city that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Buses and taxis are also available for those who prefer public transport. To rent a bike, several bike rental options are available in the city, including the E-Byke mobility system.

Where to Go Next from Eeklo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Eeklo is an excellent base for exploring other Belgian cities and attractions. Here are some nearby destinations you should check out:

  • Ghent: A beautiful city with picturesque canals, medieval architecture, and impressive art galleries and museums.
  • Bruges: A stunning medieval city with a well-deserved UNESCO World Heritage Site designation, famous for its well-preserved architecture, canals, and Gothic churches.
  • Antwerp: A vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a booming fashion and art scene.

Conclusion

Eeklo is an excellent destination for those looking for a mix of outdoor adventure, cultural sights, and delicious cuisine. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’re sure to make the most out of your visit. Don’t forget to revisit the guide to make the most out of your trip, and savor every moment spent in this charming Belgian city.