Vlassenbroekse polder

Vlassenbroekse polder is a nature area next to the village of Vlassenbroek, part of the municipality of Dendermonde in East Flanders, Belgium. It stretches along the Scheldt river, which forms a distinct meander here, and covers roughly 240 hectares of fields, woodland and meadows.

Where exactly is this polder located?

The area sits within Baasrode, a sub-municipality of Dendermonde, at approximately 51.05°N, 4.14°E. The whole landscape lies extremely low — only one to three metres above sea level — which is why the Scheldt regularly overflows onto the surrounding land here.

What makes it ecologically important?

This low elevation combined with the river's proximity has created freshwater marshland, a habitat type that is genuinely rare across Europe. Reed beds alternate with willow scrub, forming a patchwork of environments that supports many songbirds, including the bluethroat. Because of these qualities, the area is protected as part of the Natura 2000 site covering the Scheldt and Durme estuary, and it also forms part of the broader planned Scheldevallei National Park.

Does the polder also serve as flood protection?

Yes — the site is included in the Sigma Plan project for Vlassenbroek, developed along the Scheldt at Dendermonde. Projects of this kind aim to give the river more room during storms and high water, protecting the wider region around the city from flooding. Combining flood defence with the preservation of a natural landscape is a recurring approach used throughout the Scheldt valley in Flanders.

What can visitors do at Vlassenbroekse polder?

The area is freely accessible to the public year-round, with marked walking paths running through it. It's a popular destination for people from the region looking for nature close to the city — meadows, scrubland and the meandering river create a setting quite different from Flanders' typical farmland. Birdwatching is one of the main draws, alongside quiet walks along the water.

Frequently asked questions

Is Vlassenbroekse polder a protected nature reserve? Yes, it is protected under the EU's Natura 2000 network (the Scheldt and Durme estuary site) and forms part of a wider initiative to protect the Scheldt valley.

How large is the area? The polder covers approximately 240 hectares of fields, woodland and meadows.

Where exactly is it located? Next to the village of Vlassenbroek, within Baasrode, part of the city of Dendermonde, along the Scheldt river.

Is entry free? Yes, the area is open to the public year-round, with designated walking paths throughout.