Hobokense Polder, Nature area in Hoboken, Antwerp, Belgium.
Hobokense Polder is a nature reserve situated between the Scheldt River and industrial areas, containing wetlands, forests, and grasslands. Marked walking paths wind through the reserve, connecting different sections and allowing visitors to explore the varied habitats.
The area began as an agricultural polder regularly flooded by the Scheldt River before becoming an industrial zone during the 20th century. It was eventually protected and restored to support wildlife and ecosystems instead of industrial use.
The reserve represents a commitment to restoring nature near an urban and industrial zone, where people can reconnect with wild spaces. Walking through it shows how local communities value environmental recovery and wildlife protection.
The reserve has multiple walking routes suitable for different fitness levels, including options for visitors with limited mobility. Plan your visit according to how much time you have, as routes range from short easy walks to longer exploration paths.
The reserve supports an exceptional range of plant and fungal species that have established themselves across different habitats. Free-roaming Galloway cattle naturally maintain the landscape by grazing and trampling vegetation, creating a self-regulating ecosystem.
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