Recognize the City, Nieuwekerken, Kortenaken

Herk-de-Stad is a village where there was already a settlement during Roman times. The village is strategically located on the Bruges-Cologne trade route. The predecessor of what today forms Herk de Stad was first mentioned in a papal document from 1107. The medieval history is still clearly reflected in the spacious market square. The city walls, which now form a ring road around the city center in an egg-shaped pattern, are also a clear reference to that time. With an area of 2,237 hectares and a population of only 6,500, Nieuwerkerken is one of the smallest and most sparsely populated villages in Belgian Limburg. Due to its unclear status, Nieuwerkerken was previously used as a refuge for prosecuted criminals, as they enjoyed the right of asylum here. Nowadays you hardly notice any crime anymore; Nieuwerkerken has one of the lowest crime rates in Limburg. During your tour you will pass the beautiful Olmenhof-Hariaz Domain. Here you will find a breathtaking park around Pierpont Castle. The park has many recreational options with a playground, animal park, mini golf course, petanque court and fishing ponds. Animal Day is celebrated on the last Sunday of June and in mid-July the domain is occupied by music lovers at the Rock Herk festival. You can relax on one of the many terraces in this park and enjoy the relaxing nature. Via the Sint-Donatus Chapel you cycle back to the starting point of the route: the parking lot at Profile Gaethofs. This customer-friendly bicycle specialist is ready to properly check your bicycle. With your bicycle discount pass you will receive a 10 euro discount on maintenance or any repairs. This means your steel steed is ready to help you safely enjoy other bike rides.