The green lungs of Genk

There are beautiful nature reserves around Genk, but also cultural-historical hotspots such as the Bokrijk Open Air Museum and the former mining site of Winterslag. Prepare yourself for a nice long day of cycling in Belgian Limburg.

Kempen plateau
From cozy Bilzen you can drive straight into nature. You will pass through the Munsterbos and the Hoefaert, two beautifully varied nature reserves that lie in the transition area between the dry Kempen plateau and the humid Haspengouw. A rare old oak forest grows in the Munsterbos. You also drive through the coniferous forests of the Kattenvennen, one of the six gateways to the Hoge Kempen National Park. In the middle of this domain there is a huge star ball: the Cosmodrome.

Bokrijk Open Air Museum
At C-mine, the former mining site of Winterslag, Genk's industrial heritage has been revived. Here you can climb into the large shaft trestle for a spectacular view. In Bokrijk Open Air Museum you can experience how people used to live in more than 100 historic houses. The flow of stories here is endless.

Experience Bilzen
You will also find a lot of cultural history in Bilzen. For example, on the Markt is the beautiful town hall from 1685, built in the Maasland Renaissance style. The St. Mauritius Church originally dates from the fifteenth century. Because Bilzen is located in Belgian Limburg, there is no shortage of delicious fresh pies here. Also try a beer from the local craft brewery Den Toetëlèr on a terrace. Or order a regional dish, such as rabbit or farm chicken in Bilzer style. I hope it tastes well! Would you like to explore Haspengouw a little further? Then also drive route 345330.