Paddle through Ghent

🛶 Route description

Fancy a longer paddling trip full of variety? This route winds through the center of Ghent, past modern architecture, old city towers and green rest areas. Ideal for those who want to experience the city in a different way.

🌈 Highlights

• Portus Ganda
• De Krook
• Old Palace of Justice
• Gravensteen castle
• Baudelo Park

You'll depart from the Beestenmarkt and paddle along De Reep to De Krook, one of Ghent's most remarkable waterfront buildings. A bit further, you will see the Old Palace of Justice rise, after which the city continues to open up with wide quays and typical facades. The route takes you past the Korenlei and Graslei, where the water is surrounded by medieval buildings, such as the Gravensteen castle. The waterway continues towards the Rabot, with views of towers, courtyards and the quiet rear sides of the center along the way.

On the way back, the water takes you back to familiar places, but each time from a different perspective. Near the Baudelopark, the city breaks open into the green for a moment. Here you can stop for a short break at the edge of the park. Then you'll paddle on until the Portus Ganda, a recognisable end point of a varied and surprising city route.

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💡 Hint

For fewer crowds and the best light: leave in the morning and watch the city slowly wake up.

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