Heurnemeersen

Heurnemeersen is a nature area in the Scheldt valley within the city of Oudenaarde, stretching between the sub-municipalities of Heurne and Eine in East Flanders, Belgium. Sitting at the foot of the steep edge of the river valley, in what was once the winter bed of the Scheldt, the reserve covers a vision area of roughly 45 hectares and is managed by the nature conservation organization Natuurpunt.

What does the landscape look like?

The area is shaped by cut-off meanders of the Scheldt, alluvial forest, wet grassland and marsh vegetation. This mix of habitats is what makes Heurnemeersen ecologically valuable: former bends of the river, now standing water, have become a refuge for waterfowl and plants typical of wetland environments. Walking along the paths, visitors can trace how the river valley has changed over the decades — where the Scheldt once flowed, calm pools now sit fringed by reeds and marsh plants.

How is the reserve organised?

Heurnemeersen is divided into three sections. To the north lies the recognised nature area known as "Het Dal," to the south "de Snippenweide," and in the centre the meander "de Ster" — a remnant of the river's former course that now forms its own still-water ecosystem surrounded by marsh vegetation. This layout lets visitors experience several faces of the Scheldt valley in a single walk, from drier meadows to waterlogged former river bends.

Can visitors explore the area?

Yes, the reserve is open to the public. Walking paths run alongside the old Scheldt meanders, letting people explore the landscape without disturbing its most sensitive habitats. The site draws nature and bird enthusiasts alike, especially during migration periods, when the wet meadows and oxbow pools attract waterfowl.

What restoration work has taken place here?

Natuurpunt carried out a multi-year nature restoration project at Heurnemeersen, completed in 2022. Over three years, the old meanders and marsh landscape were restored, bringing back the valley's natural character from before the river was straightened and regulated. The work included reopening and deepening former Scheldt channels and improving water conditions to benefit wetland plants and animals. As a result, the area has gained greater biodiversity and become more resilient to fluctuations in groundwater levels.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Heurnemeersen located? In the Scheldt valley within the city of Oudenaarde, between the sub-municipalities of Heurne and Eine, at the foot of the steep edge of the river valley.

How large is the nature area? The vision area covers approximately 45 hectares.

Who manages the site? The nature conservation organization Natuurpunt.

Is it open to independent visitors? Yes, the area is publicly accessible, with marked paths following the old river meanders.

What is there to see at Heurnemeersen? Cut-off Scheldt meanders, including the notable meander "de Ster," alluvial forest, wet grasslands and marshland that shelter waterfowl.