Bos Ter Rijst

Bos Ter Rijst is a nearly 25-hectare forest in the Flemish Ardennes, within the municipality of Maarkedal, close to the village of Schorisse. The forest stretches along the steep eastern slope of the upper valley of the Molenbeek stream and is managed by the Flemish nature and forestry agency, Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos.

Where does the name come from?

The name "Ter Rijst" refers to a traditional woodland management practice known as coppicing. Until the 18th century, young trees and shrubs here were cut down to ground level every five to ten years, and the harvested branches were bundled into what was locally called "rijshout" — brushwood later used, among other things, as fuel for ovens. This centuries-long practice shaped the character of the forest, even though a more natural stand structure dominates today.

Why visit?

Bos Ter Rijst sits within an area of considerable ecological importance: it forms part of the Natura 2000 network (as a section of the Flemish Ardennes forest complex and other forests of southern Flanders) and belongs to the Flemish Ecological Network. The terrain is markedly uneven, with a steep valley slope, numerous springs, and damp hollows that make the forest floor unusually rich. In spring, one of the most striking sights is a blue-purple carpet of blooming bluebells covering large stretches of the forest — a scene that draws walkers looking for the classic springtime atmosphere of the Flemish Ardennes.

What lives in the forest?

The spring-fed and moist sections of the forest are favorable habitat for amphibians — the fire salamander can be found here, a species closely tied to clean, cool water emerging from the springs. Along the forest edge, the slow worm, a legless lizard often mistaken for a snake, has also been recorded. Birdlife is equally notable: a 2003 survey recorded around 30 bird species, including tawny owl, short-eared owl, hawfinch, common buzzard, marsh tit, and nuthatch. This makes Bos Ter Rijst an appealing destination not only for casual walkers but also for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.

How to explore the area

Because of the steep slopes and the many springs feeding the forest, parts of the trail network can become muddy, especially after rainfall, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The terrain suits a leisurely walk of a few hours that combines time in nature with a bit of physical effort due to the elevation changes. The wider area around Schorisse and Maarkedal also offers a network of walking and riding trails, allowing a visit to the forest to be combined with exploring the surrounding hills of the Flemish Ardennes.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Bos Ter Rijst located? The forest lies in the municipality of Maarkedal, near the village of Schorisse, along the eastern slope of the upper valley of the Molenbeek stream in the Flemish Ardennes region.

Is it a protected area? Yes, Bos Ter Rijst is part of the Natura 2000 network and the Flemish Ecological Network, and it is managed by the Flemish nature and forestry agency.

When is the best time to visit? In spring, when the forest floor is covered with blooming bluebells, forming a distinctive blue-purple carpet.

What wildlife can be seen here? The forest and its springs are home to species such as the fire salamander and slow worm, while tawny owl, short-eared owl, hawfinch, and common buzzard have been recorded among the local birdlife.