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Lys

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Leie (French: Lys) is a tranquil and highly historic river in the Belgian region of Flanders, boasting a total length of approximately 202 kilometers. It originates in Lisbourg, France, and leisurely meanders through the province of West Flanders before joining the Scheldt River in the historic center of Ghent. The Leie became known worldwide as the 'Golden River'. This moniker stems from the once-booming flax industry: for centuries, flax harvested from the Flemish fields was retted (soaked) in the waters of the Leie, which often turned the river a golden-yellow hue. Today, these polluting practices are long gone, and the Leie is renowned for its remarkably clear water and idyllic riverside landscapes. Painters, notably those of the 'Sint-Martens-Latem school', drew deep inspiration from the gentle current and the unique light reflecting off the river's bends. For tourists, the river provides wonderful opportunities for relaxing boat trips and extended cycling tours along its banks.

Location: Belgium
Top sights: Nieuwbrug · Wijdenaardbrug · Groenzaal
Nearby: Evergem (7 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	3	3	6	10	13	16	18	18	15	11	7	4
Rain mm	69	60	55	38	59	64	76	81	57	67	73	79

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The historic banks of the Lys are most easily reached through the city centers of Kortrijk or Ghent. Well-maintained roads and urban pathway systems lead visitors directly to the photogenic river landscapes.

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Best season

From May to September, the river landscape shines in its full glory and the weather is handy for walking. The autumn colors later impart a special romantic atmosphere to the historic towns situated along the water.

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Terrain & paths

Along the river in urban areas, there are mostly flat, well-paved waterfront promenades for easy strolling. Outside the centers, these paths often transition into flat, natural trails that are excellent for cyclists.

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What to bring

For the urban waterfront paths, comfortable leisure footwear is usually perfectly sufficient for a stroll. If you plan longer excursions outside the towns, some weather protection and a water bottle are highly recommended.

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Parking

In the towns along the river, there are usually numerous public parking garages and signposted parking zones. From there, the historic sections of the river can be comfortably reached in just a few minutes on foot.

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Safety

The promenades are generally very safe, but one should pay attention to both cyclist and pedestrian traffic. On unpaved banks outside the cities, caution is advised regarding slippery edges during wet conditions.

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Time needed

A relaxing walk along the waterfronts in the city centers usually takes about one to two hours to complete. Those who wish to explore the wider river landscape out of town can easily spend half a day doing so.

Geography

Coordinates

51.05300, 3.73100

Explore nearby

Notable places around

St. Bavo's Cathedral<1 km · WExplore →

Ghent University Botanical Garden2 km · SExplore →

Flemish Valley2 km · WExplore →

Bourgoyen-Ossemeersen3 km · WExplore →

Evergem7 km · NExplore →

Lochristi8 km · NEExplore →

Evergem Port Zone8 km · NExplore →

North Sea Port Ghent11 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Lys (10)

Nieuwbrug

Nieuwbrug is a bridge in Ghent, spanning the river Lys.

Wijdenaardbrug

Wijdenaardbrug is a bridge in Ghent, crossing the river Lys.

Groenzaal

Groenzaal is a theatre hall in Ghent, used for performances.

Bisschoppelijk Paleis🏰 castle

Bisschoppelijk Paleis is the bishop's palace in Ghent.

Geeraard de Duivelsteen🏰 castle

Geeraard de Duivelsteen is a medieval castle in Ghent.

Bavobrug

Bavobrug is a bridge in Ghent, connecting the banks of the Lys.

Gallery Room 8

Gallery Room 8 is an art gallery in Ghent, hosting temporary exhibitions.

Saint Bavo Cathedral

Saint Bavo Cathedral is the cathedral of Ghent, famous for the Ghent Altarpiece.

Koninklijke Academie voor Nederlandse Taal- en Letterkunde🏰 castle

The Royal Academy for Dutch Language and Literature promotes Dutch language and literature.

Miryzaal

Miryzaal is a theatre hall in Ghent, venue for concerts and plays.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is the Leie called the 'Golden River'?

In the past, the soaking of flax (retting) gave the water a golden yellow color.

Which city is particularly beautiful along the Leie?

Ghent has a magnificent setting at the Graslei and Korenlei quays.

Can you take boat trips in Ghent?

Yes, numerous operators offer guided canal boat tours through the historic center.

Is the region known for art?

Yes, the Leie valley was home to the famous artist colony of Sint-Martens-Latem.

Are there cycle paths between Kortrijk and Ghent?

Yes, there are excellent paths along the river connecting these two cities.

Lys: where is it located?

Lys is located in Belgium.

Lys: what is there to see?

Highlights include Nieuwbrug, Wijdenaardbrug, Groenzaal.

Lys: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Lys: why is it worth visiting?

The Leie (French: Lys) is a tranquil and highly historic river in the Belgian region of Flanders, boasting a total length of approximately 202 kilometers.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →