Attractions and Places To See in Mollendaalbos - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Mollendaalbos include a combination of significant natural features and unique cultural sites. This region, alongside Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest, forms a large mixed deciduous forest in Flanders, covering more than 2000 hectares. Visitors can explore diverse flora and fauna, including the oldest deer population in Flanders. The area also features artistic installations and monumental trees, offering varied points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see in Mollendaalbos
- The most popular attractions…
Last updated: October 5, 2026
Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest
Highlight • Forest
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Thick Oak 300 years old – 5 meters in circumference
Highlight • Natural Monument
The monumental oak is more than 300 years old and has a …
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Mollendaal Shelter
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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"Het fluiterke" – sculpture by Ad Wouters
Highlight • Monument
From the picnic bench you have a beautiful view of the two tree sculptures by the local artist Ad …
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Earthen embankment for 'Lakenjacht' - 17th century
Highlight • Historical Site
The …
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Tips from the Community
In the Walendreef you pass two unique sculptures. Local artist Ad Wouters made the tree sculptures 'the whistler of small happiness' and 'the woodpecker' in the trunks of two dead oak trees.
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At the intersection of Kanseliersdreef and Godendreef in the Mollendaalbos, you will find Den Dikken Eik on a small path named - how could it be otherwise - the Dikke Eikdreef. With a trunk circumference of 5.46m, Den Dikken Eik is the heaviest tree in the Meerdaalwoud. In 1995, a pencil-thin rod of wood was drilled into the core of the tree to count the annual rings: at that time, there were 320. Today, there are 351. Quite an age, therefore.
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The Eleonoradreef was laid out around 1865 by Duke Engelbert August of Arenberg and named after his niece and wife, Princess Eleonore Ursula of Arenberg. The avenue crosses an earthen rampart almost two meters high, which was built in the 17th century in the forest for the so-called "Lakenjacht" (a historical hunting method). The area around the avenue is known for its rich undergrowth in spring, such as blooming wood anemones.
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This shelter - ‘De Moemedel’ - is located at the highest point of the entire Meerdaalwoud.
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Blissful bike route in warm weather
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Nice place to sit with a beautiful gorge behind this house.
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Already 304 years old? Time flies!
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The name Mollendaal and Mollendaalbos has many variations. For example, people here also speak of the shelter at De Moemedel and Mommedel (as the forest reserve is called). The hut is also open at the back. You can see the small valley that lies there. Or call it a valley because that is where the name comes from. And quite a few springs originate. Fun fact: the current shelter is fairly new and largely made with recycled wood from the previous one. It also has a Sedum roof, you know: a green roof. Finally: this shelter is located on the GR 512 Brabantse Heuvelroute.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore in Mollendaalbos?
Mollendaalbos is rich in natural features, including the extensive Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest, which form the largest mixed deciduous forest in Flanders. You can also visit the Thick Oak, a monumental tree over 300 years old, perfect for a shaded picnic. The scenic Beech Avenue offers a beautiful natural experience on the edge of Meerdael Forest.
Are there any unique artistic installations or cultural sites in Mollendaalbos?
Yes, Mollendaalbos features unique artistic installations. You can discover "Het fluiterke" – sculpture by Ad Wouters, a fairytale-like picnic area with tree sculptures by a local artist. These works bring dead oaks to life with carved animals and a woodpecker. Additionally, within the Meerdaal and Heverlee Forests, you can follow the "Path of Ad" to find more mysterious and fairytale-like tree sculptures.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Mollendaalbos?
The Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest are home to the oldest deer population in Flanders. Birdwatchers will also appreciate the diverse range of songbirds and birds of prey that can be observed in the area.
Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Mollendaalbos?
Absolutely. Many attractions in Mollendaalbos are suitable for families. The Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest are great for exploring, and the Thick Oak provides a lovely picnic spot. The "Het fluiterke" sculpture by Ad Wouters is a particularly enchanting picnic area with fairytale tree carvings that children often enjoy.
Where can I find a good resting spot or shelter during my visit?
The Mollendaal Shelter is an excellent spot to rest. Made largely from recycled wood and featuring a green Sedum roof, it offers views of a small valley where several springs originate. It's also conveniently located on the GR 512 Brabantse Heuvelroute.
What types of plants and trees grow in the Mollendaalbos area?
The sandy to loamy soil of the Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest supports a wide variety of plants that thrive in nutrient-poor conditions. You can find coltsfoot, common sage bush, moorberry, wild strawberry, chickweed, marsh fern, and false sage. The area is also known for its impressive beech trees, particularly along the Beech Avenue.
Are there hiking trails available near the attractions in Mollendaalbos?
Yes, Mollendaalbos offers several hiking opportunities. You can find moderate trails like the "Mollendaal Shelter – Church Road loop" or the "Mollendaal Shelter – Avenue in Meerdaalwoud loop." For more options, explore the dedicated Hiking in Mollendaalbos guide.
Can I go mountain biking or road cycling in Mollendaalbos?
Absolutely. Mollendaalbos and its surroundings provide excellent routes for both mountain biking and road cycling. For detailed routes, including options like the "Weertse Dreef in Meerdaalwoud" for MTB or the "Cobbled section Mollendaalbos loop" for road cycling, refer to the MTB Trails in Mollendaalbos and Road Cycling Routes in Mollendaalbos guides.
What is the best time of year to visit Mollendaalbos?
Mollendaalbos is beautiful year-round, but a particularly enchanting time to visit is in March or April when the wood anemones bloom, especially around the Thick Oak. The diverse flora and fauna offer different experiences throughout the seasons.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in Mollendaalbos?
Visitors frequently appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the forests, especially the extensive Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest. The monumental Thick Oak is a popular spot for its historical significance and shaded picnic opportunities. The unique artistic sculptures, such as "Het fluiterke", also receive high praise for adding a whimsical touch to the natural landscape.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots in Mollendaalbos?
Yes, the Mollendaal Shelter offers views of a small valley where several springs originate. Additionally, the Beech Avenue provides a scenic natural experience, particularly beautiful for walks or cycling.
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