Fort 5 (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Fort 5?
What makes it 89% Solo-Friendly: Fort 5 suits solo travelers because its 5 km loop, fitness stations, photo spots and coworking desks allow exercise, reflection or work without needing companions.
Positives:
- Free main attractions: Most paths, play areas, and viewpoints have no entry fee.
- Safe solo exercise: Well-marked trails suit running and cycling without a guide.
Challenges:
- Limited on-site facilities: No bathrooms with changing tables inside the fort. Bring tissues and hand sanitizer.
- Trail surface varies: Some paths narrow and rocky. Wear sturdy shoes and watch your step.
What is Fort 5?
- A 19th-century polygonal fortification built between 1863 and 1870 as part of Antwerp’s Brialmont defensive ring
- Features brick-and-stone ramparts, a dry moat and earthen glacis, showcasing mid-19th-century military engineering
- Occupies the centre of a municipal park in Edegem, amid wooded ramparts, trails and open green spaces
What is so special about Fort 5 for solo trip?
- Join the €1 heritage tour through underground galleries
- Run or cycle the 3–5 km loop with gym stations
- Capture historic ramparts and wildlife at golden hour
- Experience free entry to trails and open areas
- Attend the August bat emergence walk at dusk
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a guided tour, a loop walk, and cycling the fort ring.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Fort 5
Guided heritage tour:
Join a €1 tour through the inner fort and underground galleries.
Tip: Email lokaalbestuur@edegem.be two weeks in advance. Meet at the main entrance.
Loop trail and fit-o-meter:
Run or walk the 3–5 km circular path with six outdoor gym stations.
Tip: Start at the parking lot. Pair stops with bodyweight exercises.
Cycle the Brialmont network:
Rent a Velo bike and follow green signs linking Fort 5 to Antwerp’s fort ring.
Tip: Collect your bike in the city centre. Carry a lock and a small repair kit.
Rampart and wildlife photography:
Roam outdoor paths to capture crumbling ramparts, bat chambers, and wildflowers.
Tip: Visit at golden hour for soft light. Use a wide-angle lens for ramparts.
Evening bat emergence walk:
Watch bats leave the galleries each August at dusk.
Tip: Check dates on edegem.be before visiting. Bring a torch and wear dark clothes.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Fort 5
- Download trail map: Save the loop and cycling map on your phone to avoid dead spots.
- Pack light snacks: Carry water and energy bars as there are no shops on site.
- Start early: Arrive before 10 AM to avoid crowds on weekends and park free.
Reviews of Fort 5
Mike
Spent 2 very interesting hours visiting and exploring. Much more of this fort is accessible compared to fort 4
Sam A
At this very beautiful natural park, it is a shame that the municipality doesn't take care of it! Like there are no garbage baskets, it is too close to the highway, the fort is mostly close, it is a shame!
Anisong Pilakasiri
Beautiful, cozy, suitable for all ages. There are places to walk and run, both flat and trail. Preserves the condition of the fort very well.
Mollys Irish Pub
Great for a walk especially with dog, playground for children. Beautiful laje to walk round while you try spot the turtles. Very pretty. Fort is great. Lovely & peaceful for a picnic etc
Mirna Bečević
This has got to be one of the coolest places in whole Belgium! Hours and hours of endless fun with this great slide, lovely playground and several natural beauties all around. We really enjoyed it here.
When is the best time to visit Fort 5 (Antwerp, Belgium)?
Trails get muddy from October to March. Wear waterproof shoes. In summer, book the bat walk in advance.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Heritage tour | EUR 1 |
| Velo bike rental | EUR 5 |
| Bolwerk coworking day pass | EUR 20 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 26 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Fort 5
Address: Fort V-straat, 2650 Edegem, Belgium
Map will load when you scroll here
Scroll down to view the interactive map
Looking for other Things to Do besides Fort 5 (Antwerp)?
About Fort 5
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+32 3 289 26 5010 BEST nearby Activities
Explore Popular Things to Do
🇺🇸 United States, solo trip
🇬🇧 United Kingdom, solo trip
How You Can Support Us
If our website helps you, please support us by booking your travel needs through this link: Book Flights, Hotels, Activities on Trip.com - New App User Promo up to 10% OFF. We may earn a small affiliate commission - at no extra cost to you!
It's a simple way to help us keep the site running and improving for everyone. Thanks for your support!
10 BEST nearby Activities