The centuries-old, picturesque Achel is best known for the Achelse Kluis; the Sint-Benedictus beehive in Achel, but what many people do not know is that the rest of the area is also more than worth a visit. More than half of Achel's territory used to consist of wasteland, through which streams flow and conifers grow in dry and moist parts. Fish ponds are wonderfully quiet places among the trees and at the edge of mysterious fens you can let your thoughts wander endlessly. It is a typical cycling area in the Belgian province of Limburg, not far from the Dutch border. There are many routes set out through the area. The Hageven is a recognized nature reserve that is close to Neerpelt and Overpelt, but most nature reserves are located in the Bosland nature reserve. This is the largest forest in Flanders.
You have already completed more than half of the cycling tour when you reach the Wedelse Mill in Overpelt. According to some sources, there was already a mill on this site in the eighth century. If they are right, De Wedelse Molen is the oldest water mill that grinds on the Dommel, and probably even the oldest water mill in the Benelux, although this has never been supported by archaeological evidence. The Wedelse Mill was rebuilt in 1765, where the current building was installed. The locks, the bank reinforcement and the mill are a protected monument and the surrounding area is a protected villagescape. This way the authenticity of the mill is preserved.