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Nature reserve · Genk, Limburg
Mechelse Heide
One of the largest heaths in Flandres, within the Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen, with trails across an old sand mine and a viewpoint at 104 metres, the park's highest natural point.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Mechelse Heide
The Mechelse Heide is one of the largest heath areas in Flandres and the most popular gateway for walkers to the Nationaal Park Hoge Kempen. It is located in the municipality of Maasmechelen, on the eastern edge of the Campine plateau, about 15 km from Genk.
The landscape mixes heathland, pine woods and former sand mines. The Zandloperpad trail, 1.5 km long, crosses the old mine and showcases several of the park's environments, with a hide for birdwatching. The Panoramapunt, at 104 metres, is the highest natural point in the park, with views over the Hoge Kempen, the Mosa valley and the former spoil heaps of the mines.
Seven circular trails start from the entrance, from 3 to almost 13 km, and five others begin in Eisden and at the Kikmolen campsite. From there you can also join the park's long-distance route of 72 km. For children there is a play forest with a sand dune.
The area is open year-round, from sunrise to sunset. There is no visitor centre; trail maps are sold at Camping Salamander, at Camping Kikmolen and at the Statie café in Eisden.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
From 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the trail chosen.
Best time
From mid‑August to mid‑September, when the heather typically blooms and turns the landscape purple. Early morning and late afternoon offer better light and fewer people.
How to get there
The main entrance is on Joseph Smeetslaan in Maasmechelen, about 15 km from Genk. A car is the most practical option; De Lijn buses link Genk to Maasmechelen.
Tip
Bring water and sunscreen: the heathland has little shade. Stay on the trails because the Ven Onder De Berg bog is very fragile. Some trails that start from Camping Kikmolen may be closed due to landslides; check before you go.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mechelse Heide
When does the heather bloom in Mechelse Heide?
It usually blooms from mid-August to mid-September. It's the most beautiful time and also the busiest.
Which trail should I choose?
For a short loop, the Zandloperpad, 1.5 km, passes the old sand mine. For a longer day, the purple trail is about 12.5 km and goes by the main points.
Do you need to pay an entrance fee?
There's no ticket office: the area is open from sunrise to sunset. Trail maps are sold separately.
Can you go without a car?
You can go by bus from Genk to Maasmechelen, but schedules are infrequent. Check before you leave.