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Kolonie Merksplas

Easy hikes and walks in Kolonie Merksplas

4.3

(402)

2,269

hikers

58

hikes

Easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas traverse a varied landscape featuring straight avenues, open fields, fens, grasslands, and forests. The region is characterized by its flat terrain, with hills generally under 200m, making it ideal for accessible walks. Notable natural features include the "De Blakheide" nature reserve with its heathland and bird-watching hide, and the revitalized Het Biesven fen.

Best easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas

  • The most popular easy hiking route is Grote Hoeve – Colony 7 Visitor Center…

Last updated: July 7, 2026

4.6

(28)

173

hikers

#1.

Grote Hoeve – Colony 7 Visitor Center loop from Kolonie Merksplas

5.04km

01:17

10m

10m

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Popular around Kolonie Merksplas

Time travel on foot — historical walks in Flanders

Other adventures in Kolonie Merksplas

Time travel on foot — historical walks in Flanders

Hiking Collection by

VISITFLANDERS

Tips from the Community

wendy van de water
November 3, 2025, Vagrants' Cemetery Merksplas Colony (Landlopersbegraafplaats Merksplas-Kolonie)

Wortel Cemetery Visit this silent witness to Wortel Colony's vagrant past. Vagrants were given a number upon arrival at the Colony. Lead plaques often bear only a number, not a name, on the white crosses of the vagrant cemetery.

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if you are in the area super interesting

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It's always good to be confronted with our history...

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There are 227 anonymous white crosses in this cemetery. Most of them only have a number. A few crosses have a name. In the period 1873-2000, more than 6000 people were given a final resting place in the three cemeteries. Quite a touching place.

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History: the Colonies in Wortel and Merksplas were reorganised from 1870 onwards. Wortel became an unfree colony and got a new large farm and communal main buildings (the dormitories, dining rooms, hospital, etc.). A completely new complex was also built in Merksplas, including a new farm: the Grote Hoeve. It consisted of sixteen buildings that all functioned together as a model farm. This farm replaced another, smaller farm from 1825 that stood on the same site. Around 1890, no fewer than 95 pigs lived in the pigsty of Merksplas-Kolonie. A pigsty of that size was very exceptional at the time. Small farmers usually had only one pig, large farmers at most ten. In 1910, the province of Antwerp had 28,524 farms. One farm immediately caught the eye. Merksplas-Kolonie was the only one in the region with more than 100 hectares of agricultural land.

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Deborah
November 28, 2024, Grote Kolonieplas

beautiful view.

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A monument erected for Colonel J.P Harper.

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Beautiful nature trail next to the canal where you can hear the silence. This canal was dug by the people.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many easy hiking trails are available in Kolonie Merksplas?

Kolonie Merksplas offers a wide selection of easy hiking trails, with over 35 routes specifically designed for accessible walks. In total, there are more than 50 hiking routes in the area.

What kind of terrain can I expect on easy hikes in Kolonie Merksplas?

The easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas feature a diverse and generally flat landscape. You'll encounter distinctive straight avenues, open fields, fens, grasslands, and forests, often on wide sandy paths. The region's highest points are typically under 200 meters, ensuring a comfortable walking experience.

Are the easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas suitable for families with children or strollers?

Yes, many easy trails in Kolonie Merksplas are very family-friendly. The flat terrain and wide paths make them suitable for children and some routes, like the 5 km 'The Colony Walk' mentioned in regional research, are even stroller-friendly. Consider the Grote Hoeve – Colony 7 Visitor Center loop for an accessible option.

Are dogs allowed on the easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas?

Kolonie Merksplas is generally dog-friendly, offering ample space for walks. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a leash, especially in nature reserves like "De Blakheide" or near wildlife habitats, to protect the local flora and fauna.

What historical landmarks can I see along the easy hiking trails?

Kolonie Merksplas is rich in history. You can explore monumental buildings from its past as a "colony of benevolence." Notable landmarks include the Landloperskapel (Vagrants' Chapel) and the Grote Hoeve, a historic farm complex. The Quarantine stable 19th century – Colony 7 Visitor Center loop specifically leads through historical areas and past these buildings.

Are there any natural attractions or viewpoints on the easy hikes?

Absolutely. The "De Blakheide" nature reserve is a significant natural highlight, featuring heathland and a large clay pit with a bird-watching hide. The revitalized Het Biesven fen is also a beautiful spot. The Pond in the Blakheide – Het Blak bird hide loop offers excellent opportunities to experience these natural features and spot various water birds.

What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kolonie Merksplas?

Kolonie Merksplas is enjoyable year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, while autumn offers beautiful colors in the deciduous forests. Summer is ideal for longer walks, and even winter can be picturesque, especially after a fresh snowfall. The varied landscape ensures a pleasant experience in any season.

Are there circular easy hiking routes available?

Yes, many of the easy hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas are circular, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Grote Hoeve – Colony 7 Visitor Center loop and the Quarantine stable 19th century – Grote Hoeve loop.

Where can I park when visiting Kolonie Merksplas for a hike?

Convenient parking is available at the chapel of Merksplas. This central location provides easy access to many of the hiking trails and attractions in the Kolonie area.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Kolonie Merksplas?

Kolonie Merksplas is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. You might spot numerous bird species, especially around the fens and the bird-watching hide in "De Blakheide." The area also provides habitats for bats and various insects. Conservation efforts are expanding ponds, benefiting amphibians like the crested newt.

Are there any facilities or cafes near the hiking trails?

Yes, the Visitor Center Kolonie 5-7, housed in the former pigsty of the Grote Hoeve, offers insights into the colony's history and serves as a central point for visitors. It's wheelchair-accessible and likely provides amenities or information on nearby cafes.

What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Kolonie Merksplas?

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 260 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied and tranquil landscape, the well-maintained wide sandy paths, and the unique blend of natural beauty with historical significance. Many appreciate the ease of navigation and the suitability for all fitness levels.

Most popular routes in Kolonie Merksplas

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