The best walks and hikes around Zandhoven
4.2
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4,228
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Hiking around Zandhoven offers diverse natural landscapes in the Belgian province of Antwerp. The region features a typical Campine landscape with sandy soils, heathlands, and meadows. Notable natural features include the Schupleer, De Inslag, and Lovenhoek Nature Reserves, as well as the unique fen area of Het Zwart Water. The Nete Canal also provides routes through this green environment.
Best hiking trails around Zandhoven
- The most popular hiking route is Zoerselbos Visitor Center – Zoerselbos loop from Zoerselbos en Hooidonkse Beemden, a 4.0 miles (6.5 km) trail that takes 1 hour 38 minutes to complete, leading through lush forests and open meadows.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Kesselse Heath – Fort Kessel loop from Viersel, a moderate 11.2 miles (18.0 km) path. This route features rugged terrain, tranquil streams, and views of Fort Kessel.
- Local hikers also love the Wooden footbridge – Lovenhoek Nature Reserve loop from Pulle, a 8.4 miles (13.5 km) trail leading through varied habitats including ancient deciduous trees and heathlands, often completed in about 3 hours 25 minutes.
- Hiking around Zandhoven is defined by its nature reserves, fen areas, and the Campine landscape. The extensive network of trails offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Zandhoven are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 600 reviews. More than 4000 hikers have used komoot to explore Zandhoven's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 3, 2026
4.4
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186
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18.0km
04:32
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(82)
298
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(59)
390
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(16)
105
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(28)
98
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Along forests, heath and meadows...
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beautiful nature reserve, in heavy rain not all paths are accessible!
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beautiful view over the meadows!
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Oostmalle Airfield (IATA: OBL, ICAO: EBZR) is located in the Belgian province of Antwerp, entirely within the municipality of Malle. It is situated east of the town of Zoersel, south of Oostmalle, and west of Wechelderzande. It was constructed between 1952 and 1955 as a NATO reserve airfield. Following various reforms of the Belgian armed forces in the 1990s, the Federal Government's inner cabinet decided to decommission several military areas, including the airbase. On March 30, 2012, the Flemish Government decided to transfer the management of the area from the federal to the Flemish level and put it up for sale. The airfield's natural environment consists primarily of forest and heathland. The Agency for Nature and Forests considers the area to be very important for breeding and migratory birds. 157 bird species were observed there, including the wheatear, woodlark, and curlew. The insect population is also considered very valuable. In September 2023, work began on de-hardening the existing structures, which will continue until March 2025. In the initial phase, approximately 16 hectares of existing pavement and fifteen buildings will be demolished and removed. This will create a significant amount of new nature and allow water to seep in, resulting in a mix of dry and wet heathland landscapes, sand dunes, and valuable forests. The area is also essential for the European priority habitat type of species-rich heathland grasslands. https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vliegveld_Oostmalle
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The Kesselse Heide is a provincial green space covering 79 hectares, 61 of which are open to the public. The initial acquisition took place in 1978, and it has been expanded since then. The entrance is located in Nijlen, at Vaerestraat 4. The space is freely accessible daily from sunrise to sunset. There are two ponds in the area. These old wells not only provide a pleasant change of scenery but are also a boon for the many plants and animals. Since 1996, the Kesselse Heide has been a protected landscape. It is one of the few remaining remnants of the once vast Kempen heathlands. The heath is a living community created in our region by humans. Historical agricultural practices created a landscape that has been preserved through human intervention: grazing by sheep, burning the heath, and sod cutting. Sod cutting is the removal of the topsoil and vegetation. A dug-out sod of plants and their roots is a sod. If heathland is left untreated, it will evolve into oak and birch forests, and the typical species associated with a heathland habitat will disappear. In the mid-19th century, the Kesselse Heide—like many other parts of the Kempen region—was afforested with Scots pine, a valuable timber for mining. However, during both World Wars, these sod-covered forests were felled, and from then on, the heathland was able to expand again. Current management consists of removing trees and mechanically cutting sods to give the open heathland every chance to thrive. https://youtu.be/NoPf0HSeFz8
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The Kesselse Heide-Het Goor area consists of a variety of nutrient-poor meadows, pastures, marshes, and ponds, bordered and crisscrossed by enclosed landscape types, and contains numerous landscape elements. The area is characterized by a richly varied and sometimes rare flora. Several historic farm buildings can be found within the area. The Kesselse Heide-Het Goor area, with an area of approximately 2,620 hectares, is located between the villages of Nijlen and Kessel, north of the Lier-Herentals road. The northern border of this area is along Vogelzangstraat, the eastern border along Achterbist, Kannaertsstraat, and Goorstraat. The Grote Steenweg forms the southern border, and the western border is formed by Heidestraat and Vaerestraat. The landscape includes the following topographical areas: "Kannaerdsche Heyde," "Kesselse Heide," "Mol Heide," "Achterbiest," "Het Hoog Bosch," "De Hooge Heide," "Het Armveld," "De Schommers" or "Vissen Eynde," "Het Goor," "Het Goorkasteel," and "Hoge Heyde." Several streams traverse the area, specifically the Goorkantloop, the Elstbeek, the Paddenloop, Blauwe Hoekloop, and the Visbeek. The elevation within the area varies from approximately 5 meters +TAW to approximately 10 meters +TAW. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Kesselse Heide-Het Goor, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/302886
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Zandhoven?
Zandhoven offers a wide variety of hiking experiences, with over 170 trails recorded on komoot. These routes cater to different preferences, ranging from short, easy walks to longer, more challenging excursions through diverse natural landscapes.
Are there hiking trails suitable for all fitness levels in Zandhoven?
Yes, Zandhoven provides trails for every fitness level. You'll find over 100 easy routes, around 60 moderate trails, and a selection of more challenging options. This ensures that both casual walkers and experienced hikers can find a suitable path.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Zandhoven?
Zandhoven is characterized by its diverse and tranquil natural landscapes, typical of the Campine region. You can expect to hike through lush forests, open meadows, and extensive heathlands. Notable features include the serene Het Zwart Water fen area, and the varied habitats of the Schupleer, De Inslag, and Lovenhoek Nature Reserves, which often include ancient deciduous trees and stream valleys.
Are there family-friendly hiking options in Zandhoven?
Absolutely. Many of Zandhoven's trails are well-suited for families, particularly the numerous easy routes that wind through gentle terrain. For example, the Zoerselbos Visitor Center – Zoerselbos loop is an easy 6.5 km trail through forests and meadows, perfect for a family outing.
Can I bring my dog on hikes in Zandhoven?
Many of the natural areas and trails in Zandhoven are dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the outdoors with your canine companion. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves, to protect local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all hikers.
Are there many circular hiking routes in Zandhoven?
Yes, Zandhoven is well-known for its network of circular hiking routes, making it convenient to start and end your journey at the same point. Many trails, such as the Wooden footbridge – Lovenhoek Nature Reserve loop, are designed as loops, allowing you to explore the diverse scenery without retracing your steps.
What interesting sights or landmarks can I explore near the hiking trails?
Beyond the natural beauty, Zandhoven's trails often lead to or pass by interesting landmarks. You can discover unique natural features like the dark waters of The Zwart Water, the expansive Kesselse Heath, or even historical sites like the Schans van Schilde and Pond. The region also features the Antitankgracht, part of a green ribbon around Antwerp.
When is the best time of year to go hiking in Zandhoven?
Zandhoven offers enjoyable hiking opportunities throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora and mild temperatures, while summer is perfect for long days exploring the green landscapes. Autumn transforms the forests with vibrant colors, and even winter can be beautiful for crisp, quiet walks, especially in areas like the Lovenhoek Nature Reserve.
Is parking available at the trailheads in Zandhoven?
Yes, parking is generally available at or near the main trailheads and visitor centers in Zandhoven, particularly for popular routes and nature reserves. Many starting points are designed with hiker convenience in mind, often including designated parking areas.
Are there opportunities for wildlife spotting or scenic viewpoints?
Zandhoven's nature reserves, such as Schupleer and Lovenhoek, are rich in biodiversity, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, including various bird species and marsh plants. Scenic viewpoints can be found along trails that traverse the varied Campine landscape, providing vistas over heathlands, forests, and tranquil water features like Het Zwart Water, where a floating platform serves as a bird resting spot.
What do other hikers enjoy the most about hiking in Zandhoven?
The hiking experience in Zandhoven is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 600 reviews. Hikers often praise the region's diverse natural landscapes, the tranquility of its nature reserves, and the well-maintained network of trails that cater to all abilities. The blend of forests, heathlands, and unique fen areas like Het Zwart Water are frequently highlighted as favorites.
Are there any longer, more challenging hikes in Zandhoven?
While Zandhoven is known for its accessible trails, there are options for those seeking a longer, more challenging experience. The Kesselse Heath – Fort Kessel loop, for instance, is a moderate 18 km path that requires good fitness, featuring rugged terrain and views of Fort Kessel. There are also 11 routes classified as difficult for experienced hikers.
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