Heidebos

Heidebos is one of the largest and most ecologically valuable nature reserves in East Flanders, stretching across the border of the municipalities of Lochristi and Moerbeke-Waas, just north of Ghent. Covering roughly 260 hectares, the area combines heathland, mixed forest and wet meadows into a mosaic of habitats rarely found together in such a compact space in this part of Belgium.

Where does the name come from and how old is the site?

The name "Heidebos" literally means "heath forest," reflecting the way the terrain shifts gradually from open heath into woodland. The presence of forest here is already documented on the 18th-century Ferraris maps, pointing to a very long, continuous history for this combined forest-and-heath landscape. The reserve was formally established in 1996, and five years later, in 2001, the area was designated a protected site under the EU Habitats Directive as part of the Natura 2000 network (the "Forests and heaths of sandy Flanders: eastern part" site, code BE2300005) — the strictest form of legal environmental protection available within the European Union.

What can visitors expect to see?

Landscape diversity is the reserve's defining feature. Visitors can encounter open heathland covered in bilberry and birdsfoot trefoil, shaded stretches of old-growth forest, and damp meadows that provide habitat for numerous bird species. The area is also known for its rich diversity of fungi, including species that are rare and specifically associated with heathland habitats. It is precisely this biodiversity that justified placing the site under such rigorous protection.

How is nature conservation carried out here in practice?

Over the past decade, more conservation work has gone into Heidebos than into any other Natuurpunt nature area in East Flanders. The reason was the spread of American black cherry, an invasive species that had displaced native vegetation across large sections of the reserve. Volunteers manually remove excess trees and shrubs using cordless chainsaws, tree-poppers and rakes, working to restore the terrain to its pre-invasion state. In addition, Galloway cattle have recently been introduced to the site; through extensive grazing, they help shape the natural structure of the vegetation and keep the heathland open.

Who manages the site and how can it be visited?

The reserve is managed by the nature conservation organization Natuurpunt, specifically through its local Moervaart-Zuidlede branch. Management relies heavily on volunteers, who regularly organize maintenance work throughout the site. A network of walking and cycling trails has been laid out for visitors, winding through the reserve's most interesting sections — from open heath to denser forest. Guided walks are also organized, offering visitors the chance to learn more about the site's history and ecology. Free parking is available on-site for visitors.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Heidebos located? In the north of the East Flanders province, spanning the municipalities of Lochristi and Moerbeke-Waas.

Is entry free? Yes, the area is open to the public and parking is free.

What is there to see in Heidebos? Heathland with bilberry, old forest sections traceable back to 18th-century maps, and Galloway cattle grazing as part of the conservation program.

Are guided tours available? Yes, Natuurpunt organizes nature walks through the reserve.