Attractions and Places To See around Gingelom - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Gingelom include a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and unique cultural experiences. This rural municipality in the southwestern corner of Limburg, Belgium, is known for its Gallo-Roman tumuli and picturesque Haspengouw landscape. Visitors can explore ancient burial mounds, artistic installations, and rolling fields. The region offers a diverse range of sights for those interested in history, art, and nature.
Best attractions and places to see around Gingelom
- The most popular attractions is Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church), a man-made monument that allows visitors to view the surrounding hilly landscape directly through its "walls." This distinctive artistic church is a unique architectural installation.
- Another must-see spot is Grootloon High-Stem Orchards, an other natural feature with significant historical, aesthetic, and ecological value. These orchards are a defining characteristic of the Haspengouw region and provide a vital habitat for various species.
- Visitors also love Twijfelgrens Sculpture by Fred Eerdekens, a man-made monument featuring a pleated line in the landscape. This artwork reveals the word "doubt border" when viewed from a specific position, offering a unique visual experience.
- Gingelom is known for its Gallo-Roman tumuli, historical castles, and natural features like high-stem orchards and rolling hills. The area offers a variety of attractions, from ancient burial mounds to contemporary art installations and scenic landscapes.
- The attractions around Gingelom are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1200 upvotes and over 780 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church)
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Grootloon High-Stem Orchards
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The area around GrootLoon is characterised by the high density of high-stem orchards. The Ferraris cabinet map (1771-1778) already shows that the plots around the buildings are all occupied by orchards. These orchards were aimed at production for the residents and not for sale or trade. These orchards were grazed by cattle. The high density of high-stem orchards can also be seen on later topographic maps. Around the beginning of the 20th century, orchards were also planted in the wider area, this fits in with the period of agricultural history in which high-stem orchards in Haspengouw were on the rise and would cover large parts of the landscape.
High-stem orchards are also already depicted on the Ferraris map near the Grootloon church. Only directly around the church. In the course of the 19th and 20th centuries, the area will expand further to the west. The orchards consist of various types of fruit and are of mixed age. Here and there, hawthorn hedges are used as a fence and there is an iron entrance gate. Many of the orchards are grazed, which contributes to the historical value. At this location, the value of the orchards is not only historical, the aesthetic value is also of great importance. The visual relationship between the orchards on the rolling landscape and the church is very strong. The high-stem orchards in Haspengouw and certainly in the area around Grootloon where there is still a high density, have a high experiential value and contribute to the regional identity of the landscape.
High-stem orchards have a high ecological and natural value, they are a particularly attractive habitat for many plant and animal species. The combination with extensively managed grassland is particularly interesting for nature.
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Twijfelgrens Sculpture by Fred Eerdekens
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Floating Chapel of Helshoven
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“Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.
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Lake Het Vinne
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At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.
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This transparent church, aptly named 'Reading Between the Lines', is a work of art by PIT, designed by the architectural duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh. It symbolises the decay of the church. The ten-meter-high artwork consists of one hundred stacked layers of sheet steel in the shape of a church in Loon. Thanks to the unique construction, the beautiful Haspengouw landscape remains visible through the church. In 2012, this transparent church received the 'Building of the Year' award from the renowned website ArchDaily. It was the first time a Belgian project had received this honour. Enjoy the view; this is a place with one of the most breathtaking panoramas.
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No doubt it's beautiful here...
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Very relaxing, beautiful well-maintained paths.
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The Twijfelgrens is located at the Bollenberg viewpoint, which can be reached on foot or by bike. If you are driving, park at the car park on the Sint-Truidersteenweg, between the Grootloonstraat and the Neremstraat. From the car park, follow the signposted (blue or orange) walking route. (Visit Limburg)
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Beautiful to walk through with all those young blossoms.
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When you are in the church, you can admire the beautiful hilly landscape through the 'walls'. In the distance you can see the church of Borgloon. Many photographers also take a photo where you can see the church of Borgloon through the see-through church. You have this view from a certain spot in the meadow.
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Experience the divine feeling of floating here...
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical sites can I explore in Gingelom?
Gingelom is rich in history, particularly known for its Gallo-Roman tumuli, ancient burial mounds constructed by wealthy Roman villa residents. You can explore sites like the 'Twee Tommen,' 'Drie Tommen,' and the impressive 'Avernassetom.' The region also features several historic castles, including the Castle of Gingelom and the Castle of Hasselbroek in Jeuk, alongside numerous protected historic farms.
Are there any unique art installations or cultural landmarks to visit?
Yes, Gingelom and its surroundings offer distinctive artistic landmarks. Don't miss Reading Between the Lines (See-Through Church) in Borgloon, an architectural marvel where you can admire the landscape through its steel 'walls'. Another unique piece is the Twijfelgrens Sculpture by Fred Eerdekens, which reveals a hidden word from a specific viewpoint. The Floating Chapel of Helshoven, made from cherrywood, also offers a unique cultural experience and stunning views.
What natural features define the landscape around Gingelom?
The Haspengouw region, where Gingelom is located, is characterized by its picturesque rolling hills, expansive fields, and unique natural elements. You'll find beautiful Grootloon High-Stem Orchards, which are a defining feature with significant ecological value. The area also boasts ancient hollow roads and the scenic Cicindria Valley, known for its characteristic Haspengouw flora and fauna. For a larger natural escape, Lake Het Vinne, Flanders' only natural inland lake, is nearby.
What outdoor activities can I do near these attractions?
Gingelom offers an extensive network for outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore numerous trails for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For detailed routes and inspiration, check out the guides for Hiking around Gingelom, MTB Trails around Gingelom, and Gravel biking around Gingelom. These guides feature routes through orchards, fields, and past historical sites like the tumuli.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions in Gingelom?
Yes, Gingelom offers several family-friendly options. Many of the natural and historical sites, such as the Gallo-Roman tumuli and the high-stem orchards, are suitable for walks with children. The provincial domain around Lake Het Vinne provides a playground, play forest, and sensory experience path. Additionally, the Alpaca Tumulus offers a unique agricultural and tourism experience where families can interact with alpacas and learn about wool spinning.
Where can I enjoy local food and unique dining experiences?
Gingelom provides opportunities to taste local delicacies and enjoy unique dining. You can find fresh, local products at farm shops like Regalys, especially the renowned Limburg green asparagus when in season. For a special experience, consider picnicking in idyllic settings; Boerderij Wagelmans offers a cozy meadow, while Jorishoeve allows picnicking among apple and pear trees, both featuring local produce.
What is the best time to visit Gingelom for outdoor activities?
The Haspengouw region, including Gingelom, is particularly beautiful in spring when the fruit orchards are in bloom, creating a stunning landscape for walks and bike rides. Autumn also offers vibrant colors. The weather is generally pleasant for outdoor activities from spring through early autumn, though specific events or seasonal produce might influence your preferred timing.
Are there specific hiking trails I should consider?
Gingelom offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different skill levels. You can find easy routes like the 'Nature area – Chapel of Klein-Jeuk loop from Borlo' or the 'Picnic Table Along the Trail – Cicindra Stream loop from Muizen'. For more options and detailed information, refer to the Hiking around Gingelom guide, which includes trails through orchards, fields, and past historical landmarks.
Can I find viewpoints with scenic vistas in the area?
Absolutely. The region's rolling landscapes offer many scenic viewpoints. The See-Through Church provides a unique framed view of the hilly landscape. The Floating Chapel of Helshoven is situated at 'De Galg,' the highest point of Helshoven, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Haspengouw landscape. The Bollenberg viewpoint, near the Twijfelgrens Sculpture, is another excellent spot for vistas.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Gingelom?
Visitors frequently appreciate the unique blend of history, art, and nature. The ability to view the landscape through the 'walls' of the See-Through Church is often highlighted as a memorable experience. The beauty of the Grootloon High-Stem Orchards, especially during bloom, and the intriguing visual puzzle of the Twijfelgrens Sculpture are also highly praised. The peaceful, rolling landscapes and the opportunity for scenic walks and bike rides are consistently mentioned as key attractions.
Are there any religious heritage sites in Gingelom?
Yes, Gingelom has a rich religious heritage. Notable sites include the Sint-Martinuskerk of Montenaken, Sint-Rumolduskapel, and Parochiekerk Sint-Pieter. Additionally, you can find various chapels such as Onze-Lieve-Vrouw van Stepskapel and Chapel of Our Lady Immaculate-Received, each contributing to the region's historical and spiritual landscape.
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