Round trip Houthalen-Helchteren from Zolder

In the Belgian Kempen, nature and cultural history go hand in hand. This route takes you through the area around Heusden-Zolder. You drive through forests and heathlands, but you also pass places that bear witness to the Belgian mining past.

Just past Zonhoven you will drive through the nature reserves De Teut and Ten Haagdoorn. With some 2000 hectares they form one of the largest heathlands in Belgium. Here you will find a variety of heathlands, stream valleys, fens, dunes, forests and fields. A large flock of sheep crosses the heath almost every day, a scene that gives your trip a nostalgic touch.

The route also takes you through Resterheide. At the end of the nineteenth century, Scots pine and Corsican pine were planted on this former heathland for mining. A test forest was also planted to compare the qualities of different coniferous species. This test forest grew into an arboretum.

Just above Helchteren you pass the thirteenth-century Kasteel Ter Dolen. The castle was once the summer residence of the abbots of the Abbey of Sint-Truiden. In 1522 the old castle was renovated and the building was given the appearance of a fortified manor house. Renovations in the eighteenth century gave the building a classicist style and the appearance of a country house. Since 1994 there has been a castle brewery in the castle farm, perhaps the smell of hops will tickle your nose for a moment.

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