Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Belgium
Flanders
Flemish Brabant
Leuven

Meerdaalwoud

Attractions and Places To See in Meerdaalwoud - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see in Meerdaalwoud include a sprawling woodland located east of Brussels and south of Leuven in central Belgium. This area, together with Heverleebos and Egenhovenbos, forms the largest mixed deciduous forest in Flanders. It features ancient oaks, diverse flora, and a rich animal life, including the oldest roe deer population in Flanders. The forest also holds historical significance, with sites like the Tomberg having served as a forest court until the late 17th century.

Best attractions and places to see in Meerdaalwoud

  • The most popular attractions is The Long Path, Meerdaalwoud, a trail that offers a mix of downhill, uphill single trails, and technical sections. This trail is known for its challenging and varied terrain.
  • Another must-see spot is Ad Wouters Animal Sculptures – Brabantse Wouden National Park, a collection of man-made monuments. These large wooden artworks depict animals found in the area, carved from dead oak trees.
  • Visitors also love Tomberg Summit — Bench and Gazebo, a summit and historical site. This is the second-highest point in Meerdaalwoud, featuring an open heathland area with a bench and gazebo.
  • Meerdaalwoud is known for its natural features like summits and forests, as well as cultural sites and unique man-made monuments. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from historical points to artistic installations.
  • The attractions in Meerdaalwoud are appreciated by the komoot community. Over 160 upvotes and 48 photos highlight the appeal of these places.

Last updated: June 4, 2026

Ad Wouters Animal Sculptures – Brabantse Wouden National Park

Highlight • Monument

It's like at the zoo! Everywhere you can find huge wooden artworks, sculptures depicting animals that you might see here. So if someone asks you if you've seen a hawk, a salamander, a marten or a snake, you can say yes without lying!

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See hikes here

Send to Phone

Save

The Tomberg or Tomme (102.5 meters above sea level) is the second highest point in the Meerdaalwoud. Until the end of 1600, forest law was spoken on the hill. A small building was even built to house this court. Archaeologists found various utensils in silex (natural stone). Now on the top there is an open heathland area with a bench under a gazebo.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

I don't understand who creates such highlights without any knowledge of the subject. That's a source (Hertebron).

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Tomberg Hill and Bench

Highlight • Viewpoint

Save

Meerdaalwoud Forest Path

Highlight (Segment) • Trail

Beautiful crossing of the forest on a straight road with very little traffic. Road surface isn't great, but acceptable for road cycling.

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions in Meerdaalwoud.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Meerdaalwoud

Flanders Divide - Across Flanders

Cycling in Meerdaalwoud

Road Cycling Routes in Meerdaalwoud

MTB Trails in Meerdaalwoud

Gravel biking in Meerdaalwoud

Running Trails in Meerdaalwoud

Hiking in Meerdaalwoud

Other adventures in Meerdaalwoud

Flanders Divide - Across Flanders

Mountain Biking Collection by

DirtyDropbars

Tips from the Community

Joris
July 22, 2025, Stone Well and Forest Trail in Nationaal Park Brabantse Wouden

I don't understand who creates such highlights without any knowledge of the subject. That's a source (Hertebron).

Translated by Google

1

0

Here you already have the feeling of the Ardennes...

Translated by Google

4

0

There is a bit of variety on this hill in the forest...

Translated by Google

2

1

Beautiful wood sculptures

Translated by Google

7

1

Little bare hill. Tomberg was near our starting point. The climb was okay. The whole further walk measures altimeters made then there :)

Translated by Google

3

1

Sorry but I can't find the name of this wooden sculpture...

Translated by Google

0

0

beautiful in spring; so many shades of green

Translated by Google

1

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What family-friendly activities are available in Meerdaalwoud?

Meerdaalwoud offers several options for families. Children will enjoy the Ad Wouters Animal Sculptures, large wooden artworks depicting local wildlife spread throughout the forest. The De Speelberg Reception Zone also features the "Everzwijnbad" play zone with a giant forest mikado and climbable wooden structures, perfect for younger visitors.

What historical sites can I explore in Meerdaalwoud?

The Tomberg Summit is a significant historical site. This second-highest point in the forest was historically the location of a forest court until the late 17th century, and archaeological finds of flint tools suggest prehistoric human activity. Meerdaalwoud itself was also a "Free Wood" from 1406 to the 18th century, with its own independent law court.

Are there good hiking trails in Meerdaalwoud?

Yes, Meerdaalwoud is a popular destination for hiking. You can find a variety of trails, from easy strolls to more challenging routes. For detailed options, explore the Hiking in Meerdaalwoud guide, which includes routes like the moderate Mollendaal Shelter loop or easier paths such as the Narrow beech avenue loop.

Where can I find panoramic views in Meerdaalwoud?

For panoramic views of the vast forest, visit the De Torenvalk Reception Zone. This modern area features a wooden watchtower with an exhibition, offering excellent vantage points over the surrounding woodlands.

What unique natural features can I discover in the forest?

Meerdaalwoud is rich in natural features. You can find ancient oaks, some over 300 years old, and diverse flora including dry heath, pine forests, and carpets of wood anemones in spring. Don't miss the Minnebron, a natural spring providing drinkable water, or the open heathland area at Tomberg Summit.

Can I go cycling in Meerdaalwoud?

Absolutely, Meerdaalwoud is well-suited for cycling, including gravel biking. The Gravel biking in Meerdaalwoud guide offers routes like the Meerdaal Forest and Heverlee Forest loop, which can be moderate to difficult depending on the starting point.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

Meerdaalwoud is home to a diverse animal life. You have a good chance of spotting roe deer, especially at dusk near the forest edges or in open clearings, as the forest hosts the oldest roe deer population in Flanders. There's also a bird observation hut for spotting local avian species.

Are there any challenging trails for experienced hikers or cyclists?

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, The Long Path, Meerdaalwoud is highly recommended. This trail offers a mix of downhill, uphill single trails, and technical sections, making it ideal for experienced mountain bikers or hikers looking for varied terrain. It's known for its challenging and varied terrain.

What is the best time of year to visit Meerdaalwoud?

Meerdaalwoud is beautiful year-round, but early spring is particularly enchanting when carpets of wood anemones bloom across the forest floor. Autumn also offers stunning colors. The open heathland at Tomberg is especially lovely with heather and ferns.

Are there facilities like picnic areas or toilets available?

Yes, the De Speelberg Reception Zone is well-equipped with picnic facilities and toilets, making it a convenient stop for visitors. It's designed as an "epicenter for the pure forest experience".

What is the Arboretum Heverleebos and is it near Meerdaalwoud?

The Arboretum Heverleebos is adjacent to Meerdaalwoud and features a wide variety of trees and shrubs, including impressive sequoia trees planted in 1961 that reach 28 meters in height. It's a great place to explore diverse tree species right next to the main forest.

Are there any easy hiking routes for beginners or casual walkers?

Yes, Meerdaalwoud offers several easy hiking routes. You can find options in the Easy hikes in Meerdaalwoud guide, such as the Narrow beech avenue loop or the Bivouac Zone De Steenberg loop, which are suitable for beginners and those looking for a relaxed walk.

Most popular routes in Meerdaalwoud

Cycling in Meerdaalwoud

Most popular attractions in Meerdaalwoud

Natural Monuments

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

BierbeekTielt-WingeHolsbeekLubbeekAarschotOud-HeverleeBekkevoortScherpenheuvel-ZichemBertemTervurenHerentHuldenbergKortenbergRotselaarDiestTienenGlabbeekBoutersemKortenakenHaachtTremeloBegijnendijkKeerbergenGeetbetsAverbode Bos En HeideHoegaardenBoortmeerbeekZoutleeuwLandenLinterDemervallei Tussen Aarschot En DiestDoode BemdeMollendaalbosHeverleebosBertembos En GrevensbosHet VinneHet WalenbosSilsombosHaachts BroekDunbergbroek (Hagelandse Vallei)

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Oud-Heverlee

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy