A 10km ride took us from Antwerp to the edge of the Peerdsbos, a delightful nature area that was created when the land forming a number of manors once owned by the nobility was taken over the by the state.

Once an area of woods, field and meadows, polders and dikes were created to provide protection for the small farms that grew. Today the farms have disappeared and the land has become 149 hectare park where oaks, beeches, rowan, black alder trees and more grow and the Laarse beek wanders. It is also the place where birds, insects, and mammals make their abode.

Spending a few short hours there was a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of the city.