Enjoy the Zolder area

Get to know the mining history of the Belgian Kempen. This route takes you from the former coal mine in Heusden-Zolder through some characteristic villages, but also through the countryside where fields, grasslands, forest and heath alternate.

The discovery of coal in Belgian Limburg would thoroughly change the appearance in and around Zolder. In this former agricultural region, several village-like neighborhoods quickly emerged in the 1920s and 1930s to provide housing for the influx of miners. One of those authentic so-called garden districts on your route is Lindeman.

South of Heusden you pass Meylandt Castle. Originally, this building was a large country house whose origins date back to the fourteenth century. In 1715 it was converted into a castle. An art academy has been housed here since 1972.

Meylandt Castle is located in the catchment area of the Mangelbeek. This stream was straightened at the beginning of the twentieth century on the initiative of Count De Theux de Meylandt, who lived at the castle. The castle pond was constructed in the old stream bed. The Zolder mine has also left its mark on the area. Due to collapsing mine tunnels, the ground subsided and swamps formed in various places. You cycle a few kilometers through the western part of this quiet green stream valley. In the meadows you see moist grasslands, willow thickets and swamp forests.

Still time and energy left? Then take a look at the top of the former mine slag heap, a mountain of waste stone that towers 85 meters into the air. The former black gold has been forged into a green diamond in recent years. In summer you can spot cheerfully fluttering queen eagles here. Moreover, at the top you have a beautiful view over the Kempen.