Ghent–Bruges Canal Cycle Path – Van Vlaenderen's Mill loop from Lovendegem

00:50

8.01km

10m

Running

Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 20, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

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3.25 km

Ghent–Bruges Canal Cycle Path

Highlight • Cycleway

Who would have thought; Ghent has an important inland port. He is connected via a canal via Bruges to Oostende to the North Sea. The length of the canal from Ghent to Bruges is 42 kilometers. Its history is even longer. It dates back to the 13th century when the Reie and Zuidleie rivers were widened.

Again and again there were disputes between the cities of Bruges and Ghent, because functioning waterways mean trade. The two economic centers eyed each other suspiciously and enviously, always looking out for their advantage. Who has the better connection? Who might outperform the other city?

However, the canal was not only used for shipping, but also as a line of defense in the 16th century. For this reason about twenty redoubts were erected on the southern dikes. The largest fortress, Fort Sint-Filips, was halfway between Bruges and Ghent.

Today the canal no longer separates, but is an important internal connection and, above all, a picturesque backdrop for your tour.

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4.91 km

Van Vlaenderen's Mill

Highlight • Monument

Van Vlaenderensmolen on the border of Vinderhoute and Lovendegem.
One of the most unique homes in the area. The mill is a so-called historic landscape-defining monument and overlooks the valley of the Oude Kale, a vast nature reserve.
Built in 1905 to replace a wooden mill that appears in the writings as early as 1607. The stone corn windmill remained in use until 1958.

Also special is the decorated hood with a colorful plate with coats of arms and emblems with the text 'Heaven gives / who catches it - 1731-1905'.
In 1973-1974 a restoration followed and the mill was converted into a house.
In 2009, the current owners, in consultation with the Monuments Preservation Service, gave the whole complex a very thorough refurbishment. “We renewed the mezzanine floors, renovated the entire interior and redesigned the electricity and heating to modern standards. Double glazing was installed everywhere and we also repaired the mill techniques, including the blades.”

The result is an architecturally unique concept. A successful fuse between ancient history and a modern minimalist home with lots of light, air and a view of untouched nature. Striking is the well thought-out mix of black and white in a clean color palette with warm elements such as wood. The sober aesthetics go hand in hand with intelligent functionality, as witnessed by storage spaces, built-in cupboards and optimization of the use of space. The whole is always very attractive. Premium comfort and finish level. Blissful living in a beautiful setting in a unique historical setting.Very classy.

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