Top 4 Gorges around Tessenderlo
Best canyons around Tessenderlo refers to the region's distinctive geological features, primarily its hollow ways and sunken lanes. Tessenderlo is situated in a landscape characterized by fens, forests, and varied terrain suitable for hiking. These hollow ways are formed by erosion, creating deep, narrow paths that traverse the local topography. The area offers numerous hiking trails that explore these unique natural formations and the surrounding nature reserves.
Best canyons around Tessenderlo
- The most popular canyons is Hollow Way, a…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Hellestraat Sunken Lane
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
Very popular with hikers and mountain bikers.
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Info from the Heemkring Molenstede:
(coming from the road next to the railway …
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Hollow Way
Highlight • Trail
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Hollow Lane of Schaffen
Highlight (Segment) • Gorge
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The shelter of a sunken lane
Highlight • Gorge
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Hellestraat Hollow Way Singletrack
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Other adventures around Tessenderlo
Tips from the Community
Nice single track through the sunken road that descends from grass forest to the railway. The sunken road is called the hellestraat.
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Hollow road that runs from Grasbos down to the Demer valley.
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There are two benches in beautiful places along this path. One of the "de Merode" landscape park type at the junction with the slow roads to the mill and a normal one in the bend a little further on where the road also becomes a little wider.
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One of the beautiful slow roads in Schaffen that with an expansion of the offer in recent years of Schaffen really have made an even nicer walking village. It takes you along and to various crossings of walking junctions along tree plantations, a much deeper sunken road and many beautiful views over Schaffen. Completely agree with Marc.
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Hollow roads (called deep streets here) only occur in hilly regions. They are typical for the loam region, but they can also be found in harder sandstone (such as here in Paal). They were created by man. They were used as a connecting road between farm and field and due to frequent use, loose sand was washed down the slope with every rain shower. In this way, the road was hollowed out deeper and deeper. A hollow road has a mild temperature, the wind has no effect on it. The silence is also noticeable during a walk in the shelter of a deep street.
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Pleasant walk on a hollow overgrown path
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The name Holleweg appears at quite a few points here, it is easy to lose your way. Just look at the map or Google Maps: there is a Holleweg that starts at the Turnhoutsebaan and makes a half turn at brasserie Jeffrey's to the same Turnhoutsebaan, but closer to Diest. At the same time you have two stretches of Holleweg that leave/arrive on the rightmost part of that half-ellipse: the Holleweg as the narrow road that descends to Diest AND at the same place the Holleweg as a larger track that goes to the left, upwards, and where some of those typical large houses with a view over Diest are located. So you can prepare quite well :) At a certain point you can even look from the Holleweg all the way into the depths to a smaller sunken road with the name, indeed, Holleweg.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the unique geological features referred to as 'canyons' in Tessenderlo?
In Tessenderlo, the term 'canyons' refers to distinctive geological features known as hollow ways and sunken lanes. These are deep, narrow paths formed by natural erosion and human activity over time, creating unique terrain for exploration. They are characteristic of the local landscape, which includes fens and forests.
Which are some of the most notable hollow ways or sunken lanes to explore?
Among the most notable are Hollow Way, known for its long, gentle slope and historical significance, and Hellestraat Sunken Lane, which offers a cool environment on warm days and forms a natural division between the Langenberg and Grasbos.
Are there other interesting sunken lanes or hollow roads in the region?
Yes, visitors also appreciate Hollow Lane of Schaffen, which is part of Schaffen's slow road network and provides scenic views. Another example is The shelter of a sunken lane, which highlights how these features offer a mild temperature and noticeable silence during a walk.
What kind of terrain can I expect when exploring these hollow ways?
The hollow ways and sunken lanes offer varied terrain, often leading through forests. They are typically characterized by deep, eroded paths, providing unique perspectives on the landscape. For instance, Hellestraat Hollow Way Singletrack is described as a nice single track descending through a sunken road.
What outdoor activities can I do near these hollow ways?
The region around Tessenderlo is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, running trails, and MTB trails that often incorporate these unique geological features and the surrounding nature reserves.
Are there specific hiking trails that explore these features?
Yes, many hiking routes in the area traverse these hollow ways. For example, the Gerhagen Nature Reserve offers trails like the 'Gerhagen Blue Silence Trail' and 'To the bird watching hut in Gerhagen nature reserve', which allow you to experience the local natural beauty, including these eroded paths. You can find more options in the Hiking around Tessenderlo guide.
Is Tessenderlo suitable for family-friendly outdoor activities?
While specific family-friendly designations for the hollow ways are not provided, the general nature of hiking through forests and along these unique paths can be enjoyable for families. The region's focus on nature reserves and varied terrain suggests a welcoming environment for outdoor family adventures.
What is the best time of year to visit Tessenderlo for exploring its natural features?
The hollow ways and sunken lanes can be explored year-round. They offer a cool environment on warm days, making them pleasant during summer. Autumn provides beautiful colors in the surrounding forests, and winter hiking can offer a different, serene experience. Spring brings new growth and mild temperatures, ideal for walking.
Are there any nature reserves near these hollow ways?
Yes, Tessenderlo is situated in a landscape characterized by fens and forests, with several nature reserves nearby. The Gerhagen Nature Reserve is a prominent example, offering numerous trails that explore the local topography and natural formations. The De Merode region also features unique geological characteristics.
What do visitors enjoy most about exploring the hollow ways in Tessenderlo?
Visitors appreciate the unique natural formations and the varied terrain these hollow ways offer. They enjoy the quiet, sheltered environment, especially on warm days, and the scenic views over the landscape. The historical context, such as vineyards dating back to 1350 near the Hollow Way, also adds to the experience.
Are there options for mountain biking near the hollow ways?
Yes, the region offers several mountain biking opportunities. You can find trails like 'Rodeberg Trails – Singletrack in Averode Forest loop from Tessenderlo' or 'Singletrack in Averode Forest – Averbode Abbey loop from Tessenderlo'. These routes often incorporate forest paths and varied terrain, providing an engaging experience for mountain bikers. More details are available in the MTB Trails around Tessenderlo guide.
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