The Belgian Kempen near Overpelt

The Belgian Kempen at the height of Overpelt are in a class of their own. The Hobos is a unique small-scale landscape of 142 hectares, which is a protected area because of its great historical value. Originally, the Lindelse Heide was located here, which was reclaimed from the late Middle Ages. The wooded banks that you see everywhere in the area are silent witnesses from this time. The Hobos farm has been very important in the history of the landscape. The farm was first mentioned in 1524 and in the second half of the eighteenth century a gin distillery was located there. The authentic home of the exterminator of the infamous Bokkenrijders, bailiff Jan Clercx, is also located in the area. You cycle to the Wedelse Molen in Overpelt. According to some sources, there was already a mill on this spot in the eighth century. If that is indeed true, then the Wedelse Molen is the oldest water mill that grinds on the Dommel. It is probably even the oldest watermill in the Benelux, although this is not supported by archaeological evidence. The Wedelse Molen was rebuilt in 1765, when the current building was placed. The lock, the bank reinforcement and the mill are a protected monument and the area is a protected village view. In this way, the authenticity of the mill is preserved. With an overnight stay in the Bed & Breakfast you can enjoy two beautiful routes through the area. Route 135135 also starts and ends at Factorij 10. Book a stay there, because there is nothing better than letting the effort of the bike ride slide off you in the wellness area. There is a sauna, an infrared sauna and a whirlpool. When you have sweated and bubbled enough, you can enjoy some bubbles on the cozy terrace.