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Hoge Kempen National Park

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Hoge Kempen National Park (Belgium)

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The Hoge Kempen National Park, inaugurated in March 2006 as the first of its kind in Belgium, stands as an outstanding example of ecological restoration in former industrial areas. Following the cessation of coal mining in the Kempen basin at the end of the 20th century, this expansive area of over 12,000 hectares in Limburg was returned to nature. Today, the landscape is a fascinating mosaic of deep pine forests originally planted to support mining operations, vast expanses of purple heathland, and large clear lakes formed by sand and gravel extraction. This environmental transformation has provided a unique sanctuary for rare species, including the smooth snake. Visitors can explore the vast wilderness through a network of more than 220 kilometers of marked hiking trails and an extensive cycling node system. The distinctive slag heaps, remnants of the region's mining heritage, offer spectacular panoramic views over the Flemish countryside.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C2361014171919151163
Rain mm706257426165748054616877

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
Reaching the vast area is typically straightforward via major roads in the Limburg province leading to various official gates. Regional public transport generally connects to the primary visitor centers.
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Best season
Late summer is widely considered the best time to see the heather blooming across the expansive landscape. Spring and autumn are also generally excellent for enjoying mild walks through the pine forests.
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Terrain & paths
The landscape consists mainly of relatively flat or gently rolling sandy trails and extensive forested paths. Walking here is generally easy and highly suitable for families, though some loose sand areas exist.
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What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes or standard trail runners are usually perfectly adequate for the mostly flat terrain. On sunny days, bringing sufficient drinking water and sun protection is highly recommended.
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Parking
Spacious parking lots are usually available at all official entrance gates surrounding the national park perimeter. These designated spots often serve as the convenient starting points for long hiking routes.
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Safety
Ticks can be present in the pine forests and tall grassy areas, so checking your skin after a visit is advised. Visitors should generally stick to the clearly marked paths to protect the natural habitats.
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Time needed
Most visitors typically spend anywhere from three hours to a full day exploring the expansive trails and forests. Cyclists often dedicate an entire weekend to navigate the extensive regional path network.

Geography

Coordinates
51.00080, 5.63690

Explore nearby

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Mechelse HeideMechelse Heide3 km · SExplore →
OpglabbeekOpglabbeek6 km · NWExplore →
Dilsen-StokkemDilsen-Stokkem8 km · NEExplore →
GenkGenk10 km · WExplore →
Brightlands Chemelot CampusBrightlands Chemelot Campus12 km · EExplore →
GeleenGeleen14 km · EExplore →
VDL Nedcar plantVDL Nedcar plant15 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

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

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Hoge Kempen National Park (5)

Bosreservaat Lanklaarderbos - Saenhoeve

Forest reserve in Lanklaar, Belgium, a protected natural area.

Tweelingsterril

Spoil tip in Lanklaar, Belgium, an artificial hill.

't Stasjon

Railway station in As, Belgium, a historic building.

Uitkijktoren As

Lookout tower in As, Belgium, offering views of the surroundings.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Hoge Kempen National Park?
It is Belgium's first national park and features vast heathlands and pine forests.
Does entering the park cost anything?
Entry to the national park itself is free.
Are there viewpoints?
Yes, the old coal mine spoil tips offer fantastic panoramic views.
Can you cycle in the park?
Yes, there is an excellently developed network of cycling paths through the region.
Where is the best place to start the visit?
There are six 'gateways' to the national park, each with its own theme and parking.
Hoge Kempen National Park: where is it located?
Hoge Kempen National Park is located in Belgium.
Hoge Kempen National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Bosreservaat Lanklaarderbos - Saenhoeve, Windelsteen, Tweelingsterril.
Hoge Kempen National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Hoge Kempen National Park: why is it worth visiting?
The Hoge Kempen National Park, inaugurated in March 2006 as the first of its kind in Belgium, stands as an outstanding example of ecological restoration in former industrial areas.
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