Top 20 Huts and Cabins in Flanders

Since 2020, efforts have been underway here to combat an invasive alien species, the watercress (Crassula sylvestris), a small plant that can multiply explosively in bare areas and outpaces all native seedlings. Keeping this alien species under control requires intensive and costly management. Moreover, the alien species suffocates all other native aquatic plants. Attempts are being made here to combat this alien species in a natural way. First, the watercress was removed from the pond bottom. Subsequently, native natural enemies of the invasive plant were planted. This reduces the watercress's chances of spreading to the surrounding nature. This is an experiment by the City of Hasselt and the Bio-Research research center at PXL University of Applied Sciences, but to date, it does not appear to be sufficient.

In the vast De Kevie nature reserve, located southeast of Tongeren, several hiking trails follow the picturesque Jeker valley, a meandering river that gives the landscape its character. During one of these walks, you'll encounter not only nature and culture but also atmospheric elements that enhance the experience of the area. One of the attractions along this route is a branch hut combined with a wooden bridge over the Oude Jeker river. Hikers often mention this spot as a beautiful and peaceful place to pause and take in the surroundings. The wooden bridge over the Oude Jeker is part of the walking paths that follow the banks of the river and connects various sections of the path. The bridge's simple construction blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating a harmonious transition from one part of the landscape to the next. Next to the bridge, you'll find a branch hut—a hut constructed from natural materials like branches and wood—that serves as a place of rest and observation. Such huts are often accessible, creative structures where hikers can pause for a break, shelter from the weather, or observe birds and other animals without making too much of an impression on nature. They emphasize the feeling of experiencing nature and connect with the ecological character of De Kevie. The Oude Jeker River itself is a branch of the river on the southern border of the reserve and plays a significant role in the area's ecological balance. Along the banks of this waterway, nature restoration projects have restored the original meanders of the river, benefiting biodiversity and making the landscape visually appealing. Along with other elements such as boardwalks, historic mills, viewpoints, and artwork, the branch hut with its wooden bridge forms an inviting part of the hiking experience in De Kevie—a place where nature, tranquility, and people meet in the Haspengouw landscape.

Patience and calm are instructive...

Opening hours: April to October: Open daily from 9:00 AM November to March: Open Saturdays and Sundays only from 11:00 AM (Café Boswachterhuis)

De Loteling is nestled in the wooded Zoersel district and offers an oasis of peace and relaxation for those seeking it. Be aware that it can get quite busy here.

Shortly after the Schoenbrouck Pond in the Kiewit nature reserve was redesigned, it became overgrown with an invasive alien species, watercress. This was a disaster for the pond's natural character. Originally, a solution had been devised that was better than the one normally used in such a situation. The usual solution was to completely fill the pond and re-dig it after five years. But apparently, the faster method hasn't been very successful so far. More information about this can be found at https://www.natuurpunthasseltzonhoven.be/watercrassula-natuurlijk-bestrijden/ From the birdwatching hide, you usually won't see many waterfowl, except for those on the signs inside. So: a hide with a little something extra and wait and see.

Not a drop of water in sight. The pond has dried up.

Along the picturesque avenue leading to Hex Castle, four teardrop-shaped tree tents hang high among the tall trees, artistic sleeping accommodations designed by Dré Wapenaar. These temporary sculptures balance between architecture and sculpture, inviting guests to spend the night or simply take shelter under the trees. A unique experience in the heart of the Haspengouw landscape, where nature and creativity converge!