Fort Steendorp lies between Temse and the Scheldt: an impressive 20-hectare brick fort, built in the 19th century as part of the second fortification belt around Antwerp. What was once a military stronghold is now a hidden natural gem. It is home to hundreds of bats, breeding birds and stories.
The fort served as a fortification, military factory and training ground for the army. After years of decay, nature was given free rein: young forests, rare plants and an explosion of biodiversity followed. Today, the fort is protected as a monument and nature reserve.
You can only visit the fort itself with a guide, but there is a 2 km walking trail around it with 15 information points that bring the past and nature to life.
Fort Steendorp shows how a place evolves with the landscape. Built on strategic grounds near the Scheldt, it transformed from a military stronghold into a biodiversity refuge. It unites heritage, nature and geology in one layered whole.