Keigatbos

Keigatbos is a woodland complex covering roughly 90–100 hectares in the Meetjesland region of Belgium's East Flanders province. The area straddles the border of three municipalities: Ursel (part of Aalter), Zomergem, and Oostwinkel (part of Lievegem), effectively linking several local communities through a shared green space.

Where does the name come from?

The name "Keigat" refers to the poor quality of the soil found here. The land sits on a low ridge scattered with stones and pebbles — remnants of a seabed that existed millions of years ago. This infertile ground shaped how the area was used over the centuries, favoring woodland over farmland and helping the forest survive largely intact.

What can you find in Keigatbos?

The landscape is varied: stretches of forest lined with stately tree avenues alternate with meadows, cultivated fields, and narrow country lanes. This mix of habitats makes the area appealing both to visitors who enjoy walking beneath mature trees and to those who prefer a more open, rural scenery close by.

Keigatbos forms the easternmost extension of the much larger and better-known Drongengoedbos, one of the more significant forest complexes in the Meetjesland region. Because of this connection, the area fits into a wider network of green spaces worth considering together when planning longer walking or cycling routes.

Who manages the area?

Since 2010, the nature conservation organization Natuurpunt — operating through its local branch Natuurpunt Zomergem, in cooperation with Natuurpunt Maldegem-Knesselare — has been steadily purchasing plots of land within the Keigat woodland. Of the roughly 90-hectare complex, about 30 hectares now hold nature reserve status under Natuurpunt's management. The focus of this work is protecting and restoring natural habitats, including older stands of trees and damper, biodiverse pockets of forest.

Is Keigatbos good for walking?

Yes — the area draws visitors looking for quiet walking routes close to nature. A network of paths winds through different types of terrain, from dense forest to more open stretches overlooking meadows and fields. Keigatbos also serves as a starting point or waypoint for longer marked hiking trails connecting nearby Meetjesland villages.

Is it suitable for families?

The area's quiet character — without heavy tourist traffic or the infrastructure typical of more commercial attractions — makes it well suited as a destination for a Sunday walk or a short nature outing, appealing to couples and families with children looking to spend time outdoors without traveling far.

Frequently asked questions

Where exactly is Keigatbos located? On the border of Ursel, Zomergem, and Oostwinkel, in the East Flanders province of Belgium.

How large is the area? The full complex covers around 90–100 hectares, part of which is managed as a nature reserve.

What is Keigatbos connected to? It forms the eastern extension of the larger Drongengoedbos forest complex.

Who looks after the area? Since 2010, the nature organization Natuurpunt has been gradually acquiring and managing land there.