The walk begins in the characteristic hamlet of Waterhoek. You'll soon find yourself standing with your feet on the dike in front of the first eye-catcher: the Appels-Berlare ferry. This isn't a modern gadget; travelers have been crossing here since 1253. It was once a crucial link in the trade route between Ghent and Dendermonde. As the ferryman guides you across, you'll feel the history of the region. Once on the other side, you'll leave civilization behind for the Old Scheldt. This nature reserve is a remnant of a powerful river bend that was straightened at the end of the 19th century. You'll soon arrive at the pull ferry, where you'll have to do your own thing! Pull yourself across the water. After the ferry, follow a beautiful wooden path that guides you through the marshy area. After your loop in the Old Scheldt nature reserve, you'll cross the river again towards the Scheldt marshes. This area is a European protected area, and for good reason. It's a habitat of freshwater salt marshes and flower-rich meadows. The Scheldt River used to have free rein here, and the meadows were flooded every winter. Today, it serves as a controlled flood plain (the Scheldt brook), creating a unique landscape where meadow birds like the black-tailed godwit, lapwing, and the rare garganey feel completely at home. In spring, keep an eye out for the marsh marigolds. These bright yellow flowers transform the damp meadows into a golden carpet. No walk is complete without a good ending. 't Veerhuis is the perfect spot. Once voted Flanders' best pub, this is the ideal spot to gaze out over the river you've just conquered, with a local beer in hand.