Ghent to Dordrecht Drive: Scenic Stops & Hidden Gems

Driving from Ghent to Dordrecht covers approximately 120 km via the E17 and A16 highways, usually taking 1 hour 20 minutes without traffic. This route crosses the border between Belgium and the Netherlands, passing through the Westerscheldetunnel — a 6.6 km underwater tunnel that is one of the longest in Europe. The tunnel was completed in 2003 and replaced a ferry service, dramatically changing regional travel.

The driving time between Ghent and Dordrecht is surprisingly short, but the journey offers many worthwhile detours. Understanding how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities is key to transforming this commute into a memorable road trip. how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities.

Road quality is excellent, with steel guardrails and clear signage. Speed cameras are common in Belgium; use cruise control to avoid fines.

For families, safe stops include 'Plopsa Indoor Coevorden' (about 30 min off-route) or 'Safari Park Beekse Bergen' (near Tilburg). For children, the 'Deltapark Neeltje Jans' near the tunnel offers interactive water management exhibits.

Fatigue management is crucial. The drive is short, but take a break at 'Restaria De Merel' on the A16, which has a children's play area and coffee. For pets, 'Hondenspeelweide Hazeldonk' is a fenced dog run at the rest stop.

The route uses well-maintained motorways with variable speed limits (120 km/h in Belgium, 100 km/h in the Netherlands unless otherwise posted). Toll sections include the Westerscheldetunnel (€5 per car each way).

Fuel stations are plentiful along the E17 and A16. For cheaper fuel, fill up in Belgium before crossing into the Netherlands, where prices are typically 5-10% higher.

• Total cost (toll + fuel): approx. €25-30 for a standard car.
• Electric vehicle charging points are available at all major rest stops.

Rest zones are frequent every 15-20 km. Notable rest areas include 'Kallo' (E17 near Antwerp) and 'Hazeldonk' (A16 near border). Both have clean toilets, fast food, and picnic areas.

The route transitions from the flat polders of East Flanders to the estuary landscapes of Zeeland. Near the Westerscheldetunnel, you can spot the 'Verdronken Land van Saeftinge' — a drowned marshland nature reserve. For the best stops Ghent to Dordrecht, consider a detour to this area for birdwatching.

Along the way, local commerce thrives in small towns. In Sint-Niklaas (exit 16 on E17), visit the weekly market on the Grote Markt — one of the largest squares in Europe. For unique finds, stop at 'De Fietsfabriek' (custom Dutch bikes) or 'Kaasboerderij St. Jacob' for artisan cheese.

In Bergen op Zoom, the 'Oude Markt' offers cafes and antique shops. Try local 'Bergse koffietafel' (coffee table) tradition, a multi-course lunch.