Head west along the banks of the Scheldt towards Sint-Amands. Plaques commemorating Flemish poets and their poems about the river line the way on the left, as well as signs for Mariekerke’s annual Palingfestival, or Eel Festival, which takes place each summer – an event to remember for those with strong stomachs.
Coming into the slightly larger town of Sint-Amands there is a detour on the path – actually a blessing in disguise – directing cyclists along the narrow windy ways of this ancient-feeling city. Turn right on Kerkstraat back to the Scheldt at the base of the large red-brick church, almost an enlarged version of the church where the ride began. The first record of a settlement at Sint-Amands dates back to the ninth century, and the church here was built in the 17th century.

Return to the path along the Scheldt as it continues to the left, into the town of Briel. The setting is more industrial here, a small vestige of the economic importance this area once had; all the towns passed on this ride were once busy shipping ports. Past the INVA Belgium loading area, the path becomes a dirt road and then returns to pavement heading into the town of Baasrode.

Bear right, following signs now for cycle route 57, past the town hall to the ferry at the base of the third church of the ride, the late-Gothic Saint Ursmarus Church. Take the ferry across the river. The residential part of the ride is over now; the return to Mariekerke will follow the natural parks along the north bank.

Once off the ferry, turn right and head back upstream. The churches already passed are even more striking on this part of the ride, seen from a distance and reflected in the river water.

The path leaves the Scheldt here, wandering out into farmland and silence, so you might easily forget there are towns so close by. On the horizon, the steeple of the church in Sint-Amands rises, visible at this time of year through the bare branches of the leafless trees. The path returns to the banks of the river now. Pass the ferry crossing for Sint-Amands and continue along the Scheldt to the ferry crossing for Mariekerke. The church across the way marks the end point of the ride. Cross over and stop at any of the various cosy cafes for a drink and a view of the river.

Distance: 14 kilometres
Difficulty: Easy. Good bike paths almost the whole way
Time: Less than an hour of biking – though there can be a wait for the ferries