About this place
Viconia Kleiputten is a nature reserve set along the IJzer river in Stuivekenskerke, part of the Diksmuide municipality in West Flanders, Belgium. It's a place where an industrial past has quietly turned into one of the region's richest spots for birdlife, without much trace of its original purpose left behind.
An industrial origin
The name "kleiputten" literally means "clay pits," and that's exactly what shaped this landscape. Between 1945 and 1979, clay was extracted here to supply a brick factory in Nieuwpoort, leaving behind six shallow depressions that gradually filled with water. Over time, these pits developed into a rich mosaic of wetland habitats spread across roughly 22 hectares. The area was designated a nature reserve in 1981 and transferred to the Flemish Region in 1995.
A mosaic of habitats
What sets Viconia Kleiputten apart is the sheer variety packed into a relatively small area. Alongside the ponds themselves — each differing in depth and vegetation — the reserve includes wet, heavily undulating hay meadows and pastures, hedgerows, and a small marshy woodland. This combination of biotopes has made the site a magnet for birdlife: 195 bird species have been recorded here to date, including numerous waterfowl and waders, reed warblers, and bearded reedlings.
The observation tower
A new observation tower opened in the reserve in 2022, giving visitors a sweeping view over the shallow ponds. It has quickly become the focal point for birdwatchers exploring the area, particularly during migration periods, when the ponds draw the widest range of species.
Visiting the reserve
Viconia Kleiputten sits close to the IJzer valley, right next to the small village of Stuivekenskerke, administratively part of Diksmuide. It's a destination best suited to nature lovers and birdwatchers, but the mix of quiet meadows and open water also makes for a peaceful stop for anyone exploring West Flanders away from the busier tourist routes.
Frequently asked questions
What are "kleiputten"? They are former clay extraction pits — in this case linked to a brick factory in Nieuwpoort — that gradually turned into ponds and wetlands over time.
How many bird species can be seen here? 195 bird species have been recorded in the reserve so far, including many waterfowl and wading birds.
Is there an observation tower? Yes, a new observation tower was built in 2022, offering views over the reserve's shallow ponds.
Where exactly is the reserve located? In Stuivekenskerke, part of the Diksmuide municipality in West Flanders, Belgium, along the IJzer river.
Nearby places
Earn badges for the places you visit
Download NextOnTrip, discover new places and check off your trails.