Pearls of nature and silence around Ravels

A weekend in the Antwerp Kempen means enjoying absolute tranquility in a beautiful green setting. Just across the border at Turnhout are the regional forests of Ravels, an 830-hectare forest that is over a hundred years old. Once you saw here mainly heathland and shifting sand area, now the vast area with elderly trees is being restored to its original state.

Green opulence, deep tranquility

The land was purchased by the province in 1903-1904. He energetically planted trees to prevent the drift, but also to produce wood for the Limburg mines. Today the area is mainly popular as a nature reserve. To make nature more attractive, we are working hard to make the forest more varied. Some of the pines are cut down, giving deciduous trees more space. A few of the old fens have been'excavated\\\' from the surrounding forest, and are therefore more visible. Via the Mizzy Paadje you can explore the Kesseven, a large fen with sloping banks.

Green Cathedral

The old destination of the forest is still clearly visible. Straight lines and paths cut through the area. With the exuberant canopy of the mature trees overhead, you imagine yourself in a green cathedral, where the trunks serve as pillars that prop up the green roof. There are now also narrower paths that meet the needs of every walker who prefers to stroll through nature. With a bit of luck you can spot traces of wild boars here.

Copyright photos: Liesbet De Pooter