The best walks and hikes around Lommel
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Hiking around Lommel offers diverse natural landscapes, characterized by unique sand dunes, clear blue lakes, and dense pine forests. The region also features tranquil wetlands and heathland, providing varied terrain for outdoor activities. These natural features create an almost desert-like experience in areas such as the Lommelse Sahara, contrasting with typical Belgian scenery. The area's low elevation makes most trails accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around Lommel
- The most popular hiking route is Kattenbos - Orange hiking route, an easy 4.8 miles (7.7 km) trail that takes 1 hour 56 minutes to complete. This route leads through the forested Kattenbos area.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is View of the Lommelse Sahara – Blekerheide loop from Lommel, a moderate 8.7 miles (14.0 km) path. This trail offers views of the Lommelse Sahara and the Blekerheide nature reserve.
- Local hikers also love the Lommel Sahara – Lommel Sahara loop from Natuurreservaat Heuvelse Heide, a 5.8 miles (9.3 km) trail leading through the unique Lommelse Sahara, often completed in about 2 hours 22 minutes.
- Hiking around Lommel is defined by sand dunes, pine forests, and wetlands. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to moderate treks.
- The routes in Lommel are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,300 reviews. More than 14,500 hikers have used komoot to explore Lommel's varied terrain.
Last updated: June 29, 2026
4.5
(63)
368
hikers
7.69km
01:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(321)
1,977
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(278)
1,836
hikers
14.0km
03:34
40m
40m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(265)
1,688
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(197)
1,050
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Leyssensmolen is one of the most characteristic monuments in the Kattenbos in Lommel. This beautiful historic windmill is a popular stopping point for hikers and cyclists in Bosland National Park.
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Flirting with the border...
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At this spot in the Kattenbosserheide, part of Bosland, lies a unique seating area: a small, sunken seating pit in the middle of the heathland. When you sit here, your head just peeks above the heather bushes. This allows you to experience the landscape in a different way: you feel the warmth of the ground, smell the scent of the heather, and see the vast field of shrubs up close. In late summer, the heather here turns purplish-pink, transforming the area into an impressive sea of flowers. This spot also illustrates how heathland should be managed. Without maintenance, grass, shrubs, and trees would slowly take over the land, and the open heathland would disappear. Therefore, the heathland is maintained by methods such as sod cutting, removing young trees, and grazing sheep.
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This wooden windmill was originally built in 1797 and has been in several locations over the centuries. That's why it's known today as "the relocated mill." In 1804, the mill was moved to Fransenstraat in Lommel, where it ground grain for the locals for many years. After falling into disrepair, it was carefully restored and rebuilt at its current location in Bosland. Today, the mill is a landmark in the landscape and a pleasant stop for hikers and cyclists. Here, history, nature, and tranquility converge—a place where you can pause for a moment and imagine how the sails once shaped the rhythm of Kempen life. 🌾🌬️
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This important attraction is a corn mill with a very turbulent history. The wooden Leyssensmolen, surrounded by a green hedge and crowned with a pyramidal roof, is a must-see in Kattenbos. The mill, named after the Leyssen family who managed it from 1860 to 1905, has been a protected monument since 2001. After three relocations, the last in 1964, the mill now rests in this idyllic location amidst the vast natural landscape. If you're bringing a picnic, this is undoubtedly the most beautiful picnic spot of the day.
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In the beautiful Hageven nature reserve, on the border between Belgium and the Netherlands, lies a special place for nature lovers: the bird hide. From this hide, you can look out over vast marshlands, fens, and ponds that form a true paradise for birds. Numerous species flock here year-round, from ducks and geese to herons and sometimes even an osprey during migration periods. The walk to the hide takes you through flower-filled meadows, ancient river channels, and quiet forest paths. Once you arrive, the hide offers not only shelter and good views but also a moment of silence. You hear the rustling of the reeds, the calls of waterfowl, and sometimes just the wind blowing across the water. The Hageven is one of the most bird-rich areas in Flanders, and the hide allows you to experience this up close without disturbing the natural environment. It's a place where you could sit for hours, gazing at the horizon and enjoying the constant movement of nature.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Lommel?
Lommel offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 300 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring options for all fitness levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in Lommel?
Lommel's hiking terrain is remarkably diverse. You'll encounter the unique sand dunes, clear blue lakes, and dense pine forests of the Lommelse Sahara, as well as tranquil wetlands in areas like De Watering Nature Reserve. Many routes also traverse traditional forests and heathland, offering varied landscapes.
Are there easy hiking options suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Lommel is very beginner and family-friendly. Over 170 of the available routes are classified as easy. The Lommelse Sahara, for instance, features a child-friendly 'blue walk' that passes through a mysterious play forest. An example of an easy route is the Kattenbos - Orange hiking route, which is 7.7 km long.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Lommel?
Many of Lommel's hiking trails are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For example, the View of the Lommelse Sahara – Blekerheide loop from Lommel offers a moderate 14 km circular path through diverse landscapes.
What are some notable natural features or landmarks to see while hiking?
Lommel is rich in natural beauty and interesting landmarks. The most prominent is the Lommelse Sahara with its unique sand dunes and lakes. You can also visit the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower (De Wulp) for panoramic views. Other highlights include the tranquil De Watering Nature Reserve and historical points like Border Post 185, also known as the Viergemeentenpunt.
Are there observation towers for panoramic views?
Yes, Lommel offers several observation towers. The most well-known is De Wulp, located in the Lommelse Sahara, which provides stunning views over the unique landscape. There's also the Lommelse uitkijktoren for those seeking elevated perspectives of the region.
What kind of wildlife might I spot on the trails?
Lommel's diverse ecosystems, including forests, heathland, and wetlands, are home to various wildlife. Hikers often have the chance to spot deer, woodpeckers, and different species of birds, including birds of prey, especially in areas like De Watering Nature Reserve.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Lommel?
The trails in Lommel are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 2,300 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the unique and varied landscapes, particularly the striking Lommelse Sahara, as well as the well-maintained and clearly marked paths that cater to all ability levels.
Is parking available at the trailheads?
While specific parking information varies by trailhead, many popular hiking areas in Lommel, especially around the Lommelse Sahara and other nature reserves, offer designated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the starting point of your chosen route for detailed parking options.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Lommel?
Lommel offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer is perfect for enjoying the lakes and open landscapes. Autumn showcases beautiful fall colors in the forests, and even winter can be picturesque, especially in the Lommelse Sahara. The low elevation means trails are generally accessible year-round.
Where can I find more information about the Lommelse Sahara?
The Lommelse Sahara is a key natural highlight of the region. For more detailed information about its unique features and specific hiking routes within it, you can visit the official tourism website: visitlommel.be.
Are there any historical sites along the hiking trails?
Yes, some routes in Lommel incorporate historical elements. A notable example is the path leading to Border Post 185, also known as the Viergemeentenpunt (Four Municipalities Point), where the borders of four municipalities converge. These sites offer a glimpse into the region's past while enjoying the natural surroundings.
Most popular attractions around Lommel
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