Wachtspaarbekken Bettelhovebeek

Wachtspaarbekken Bettelhovebeek is a small retention basin and marshland area in Strijpen, a village that forms part of the city of Zottegem in East Flanders, Belgium. Covering roughly one hectare, it sits in the valley of the Bettelhovebeek stream, right on the border between Strijpen and neighboring Velzeke.

How did this place come to be?

The Bettelhovebeek stream rises near the Bijloke area close to Grotenberge, then winds its way through Zottegem — passing Villa Cantaert, running between Egmontpark and Beislovenpark, and continuing alongside Egmontkasteel castle and the Leirenshof estate before reaching Strijpen. It was here, after the upper course of the stream was canalized, that a retention basin (wachtbekken) was built in 1982 to reduce the flood risk at the point where the Bettelhovebeek meets other watercourses. Over time, sediment carried by the water settled inside the basin, and a marsh gradually formed — the wetland that now defines this small natural area.

Why is it worth a visit?

Although the Wachtspaarbekken Bettelhovebeek is essentially an engineered structure with a practical purpose — protecting lower-lying land from flooding — it has quietly acquired a second identity as a modest nature reserve. Its marshy, waterlogged environment attracts wetland and water birds, making it an appealing stop for a short walk for anyone interested in nature while visiting the Zottegem area. It is a good illustration of how water-management infrastructure can, over the decades, evolve into a valuable habitat for local wildlife.

What species can be found here?

The marsh surrounding the basin is home to species such as the common kingfisher, the grey heron, the reed bunting (a small passerine tied to reedbeds), the mallard, and the common coot. The presence of these birds points to a mature, well-established wetland ecosystem that, despite its modest size, functions as a local refuge for water-associated birdlife. Birdwatchers will find early morning or evening the best time to visit, when animal activity tends to peak.

How to get there and what to expect

Wachtspaarbekken Bettelhovebeek is located in Strijpen, one of the smaller villages administratively part of Zottegem. Given its limited size and marshy character, the site is best approached as a short, quiet walk rather than a full day trip — there is no extensive tourist infrastructure here, just an intimate encounter with nature along the stream valley. Bringing binoculars is a good idea for anyone hoping to spot the local waterfowl.

Frequently asked questions

What is a wachtbekken (retention basin)? It is an artificial water basin designed to temporarily hold excess water during heavy rainfall or snowmelt, preventing flooding further downstream along the watercourse.

When was the basin at Bettelhovebeek built? The retention basin was constructed in 1982, after the upper section of the Bettelhovebeek stream was canalized.

What birds can be seen at this site? Species recorded in the marsh include the kingfisher, grey heron, reed bunting, mallard, and common coot.

Where exactly is this place located? The area lies in Strijpen, a village belonging to the city of Zottegem in East Flanders, right on the border with neighboring Velzeke.