Attractions and Places To See around Genk - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Genk showcase a city that skillfully blends its industrial heritage with expansive natural landscapes. Located in the Belgian province of Limburg, Genk offers diverse points of interest, from former mining sites transformed into cultural hubs to unique outdoor experiences. The region features vast forests, heathlands, and innovative cycling paths, providing a variety of activities for visitors.
Best attractions and places to see around Genk
- The most popular attractions is Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), a cycle way that allows cyclists to ride at eye-level with the water. This unique experience provides a lot of variety on a bike tour and is a specialty of the region.
- Another must-see spot is Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a bridge that floats elegantly over the water. This cycling and walking bridge offers 360-degree views of the landscape and industrial heritage.
- Visitors also love Eisden Mine Headframes and Visitor Center (Connecterra, National Park Hoge Kempen), a man-made monument that serves as a silent witness to the industrial past. One of the headframes is accessible, offering an impression of the mine's history and panoramic views.
- Genk is known for its natural features, industrial heritage sites, and unique cycling experiences. The area provides a variety of attractions to see and explore, from national parks to cultural hubs.
- The attractions around Genk are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 3000 upvotes and more than 1600 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Cycling Through the Water
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Connecterra, Hoge Kempen National Park
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Station As
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Station As is also one of the gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park and has an observation tower.
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As Bicycle Bridge
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Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes
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Connecterra is the main gateway to Hoge Kempen National Park. This unique area is located on the former mining site of Eisden, bordering Dilsen-Stokkem. A quarter of a century ago, the mine was still operating at full capacity; now it is a true nature paradise. There are big plans for this area in the making for the coming years, respecting both nature and cultural heritage. The hiking area has been developed and the routes offer some of the most beautiful panoramas in Flanders, with a breathtaking scenery of mountains and lakes. In total, five routes will lead you through the area. The hiking area connects to the 'Mechelse Heide' and 'Station As' walking paths. In the new visitor center, you will find information about the national park and can relax with a drink in the tearoom. Outside, children can have fun in the playground. The spiral tower is accessible up to the first floor and offers a glimpse of what Connecterra has to offer.
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Station As is a former railway station on lines 21A (Hasselt-As) and 21B (As-Eisden). The station building now houses a restaurant and the Kolenspoorvereniging (Coal Railway Association) uses it for the operation of the tourist railway line Waterschei-As-Eisden. Station As is also one of the gateways to Hoge Kempen National Park and has an observation tower.
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The cycle path through the water leads cyclists over a 212-meter-long and three-meter-wide concrete path, with water at eye level on both sides. Swans and other waterfowl swim along the banks, curiously watching the cyclists. Since its opening, interest in this unique cycle path has been enormous. On average, 800 visitors per day explore this unforgettable part of the Limburg cycle network, with peaks on Saturdays and Sundays, and on some days even up to 5,000 cyclists.
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The coal mining past lives on...
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The two winding towers commemorate the history of coal mining. In less than a decade, the history of coal mining in the Hoge Kempen region drastically changed the landscape. The last coal mine (Eisden) closed in 1901. In those 1989 years, the landscape transformed from a "rural" landscape of mainly heathland, moors, and dunes to an "industrial" landscape with winding towers, slag heaps, pine forests for timber harvesting, and quarries for raw materials.
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Beautifully designed bicycle bridge that allows cyclists to cross the busy road safely.
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must be beautiful when the heather is in bloom
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The western headframe of the former Eisden mine was converted into the Visitor Center of the Hoge Kempen National Park. Those who choose Terhills as a base for exploring the National Park will be guided through the headframe, with a cafeteria, shop and information center on the ground floor. The existing wooden reception building has been preserved but has a different function. https://www.nationaalparkhogekempen.be/nl/schachtbok
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique cycling experiences can I find in Genk?
Genk offers two distinct cycling experiences. You can try Cycling Through the Water — Fietsen Door Het Water (Bokrijk), where you ride at eye-level with the water for about 0.13 miles (0.2 km). Another unique option is Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge, a floating bridge that offers 360-degree views of the landscape and industrial heritage, connecting nature and history.
Are there any historical sites related to Genk's mining past?
Yes, Genk has a rich mining history. You can visit Eisden Mine Headframes and Visitor Center (Connecterra, National Park Hoge Kempen), where you can learn about the industrial past and even climb one of the headframes for panoramic views. Another significant site is C-Mine, a former coal mine transformed into a cultural hub, offering underground tours and a chance to climb the mine shaft.
What natural landscapes can I explore in Genk?
Genk is home to diverse natural features. The Hoge Kempen National Park, Belgium's only National Park, offers vast pine forests, heathlands, and sand dunes. Within the park, you can explore areas like Mechelse Heide — Lakes and Sand Dunes. The Stiemer Valley, an 8km long brook, is also being redeveloped into a blue-green artery through the city.
What family-friendly activities are available in Genk?
For families, the Bokrijk Open Air Museum is a great choice, featuring authentic historical buildings, traditional crafts, and an outdoor playground. The Cosmodrome at Kattevennen offers an immersive space experience with 360° 3D visuals. For older children, Karting Genk provides an exhilarating experience at Europe's largest outdoor karting center.
Where can I go hiking around Genk?
Genk offers numerous hiking opportunities, especially within the Hoge Kempen National Park. Popular trails include the Thor Park - Blue hiking trail and the De Maten Red Triangle Trail. You can find more detailed routes and information in the Hiking around Genk guide.
Are there cycling routes suitable for different skill levels?
Yes, Genk is very cyclist-friendly. You can find routes like 'Cycling through Water and Heath' or the 'Hoge Kempen National Park Loop'. The region's extensive cycle network connects various attractions. For a comprehensive list of routes, refer to the Cycling around Genk guide.
What cultural attractions are there beyond the mining heritage?
Beyond mining, Genk offers the Bokrijk Open Air Museum, which showcases Belgian rural life from past centuries with 150 authentic buildings. The Yunus Emre Mosque, with its minaret and dome, is also a notable cultural landmark. Additionally, LABIOMISTA is an artistic site focusing on heritage, contemporary art, and biocultural diversity.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Genk?
Visitors particularly enjoy the unique experiences like Cycling Through the Water, describing it as a 'fantastic idea' and a 'must-do'. The blend of industrial heritage with tranquil nature, such as at Eisden Mine Headframes, is also highly appreciated, offering both historical insight and beautiful views.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Genk?
Absolutely. Genk and its surroundings provide several mountain biking trails. Options range from the 'Genk green-red loop' within the Hoge Kempen network to more challenging routes like the 'Gravel path Tenhaagdoornheide'. Explore more trails in the MTB Trails around Genk guide.
Is there a good place to take a break or get refreshments near the trails?
Yes, Station As, the oldest preserved station in Limburg, now serves as a great spot for a rest. It features a restaurant with a terrace and is conveniently located near the Hoge Kempen National Park, making it ideal for a break during your outdoor activities.
What is Thor Park and what does it offer?
Thor Park, located on the former Waterschei mine site, has been transformed into a technology business campus and serves as another gateway to the Hoge Kempen National Park. Its main building, Thor Central, is beautifully restored and functions as an event space, showcasing the successful reimagining of industrial heritage.
Are there any unique viewpoints or panoramic spots in Genk?
For panoramic views, you can climb the mine shaft at C-Mine or one of the headframes at Eisden Mine Headframes. The Fietsen Tussen de Mijnterrils Bridge also offers 360-degree views of the landscape and industrial heritage as you cycle or walk across it.
Most popular attractions around Genk
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