4.4
(8126)
49,153
hikers
22
hikes
Hiking trails in Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most traverse a diverse landscape characterized by a blend of wet and dry ecosystems. The region features the meandering Grote Nete river valley with its floodplains and marshlands, contrasting with higher-lying dry inland dunes, heathland, and coniferous forests. This area, part of the Antwerp Kempen, offers varied terrain for outdoor exploration.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
4.7
(19)
138
hikers
12.0km
03:03
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.9
(16)
114
hikers
4.48km
01:09
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.6
(8)
56
hikers
4.65km
01:12
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(9)
37
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(4)
30
hikers
10.7km
02:42
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most
The Balen nature reserve (302 hectares), between the hamlet of Scheps and the sub-municipality of Olmen, is a gem of a stream valley. For centuries, watercourses have shaped the landscape and they still do so today. The 'Schepswandeling', voted 'most beautiful walk in the province of Antwerp' in 2012, takes you past the most beautiful spots in Scheps. The recommended starting point is at the chapel of Odrada, but here too you can leave your bike, have a picnic and enter the nature reserve. A bit further on, you can only get through with boots because of a beaver. See https://www.ontdekbalen.be/doen/wandelen/schepswandeling
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At this location, a sturdy picnic bench awaits you. You can also enter the nature reserve 'De Vennen' here. A special landscape full of grasslands, roughs, scrub and forests are definitely worth discovering. The nature reserve De Vennen is not only ecologically but also landscape and cultural-historically valuable. Centuries-old small-scale cultural landscapes of several hundred hectares are particularly rare in Flanders.
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De Most is part of the larger Most-Keiheuvel nature reserve, managed by the Agency for Nature and Forests. De Most is mainly located in Balen and is a very wet and important nature reserve, while Keiheuvel consists of inland dunes. De Most, or the valley, is located not far from the Grote Nete and is named after the castle De Most that played a role in the resistance during the war. Today you will find special aquatic plants such as cinquefoil, water leaf and peat fluff. The paths are well marked, but make sure you wear good footwear because the tiny piece of boardwalk that is there will be far from sufficient to keep your feet dry in wet weather. This is undoubtedly a beautiful area.
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Come back here every now and then because the nature management works are continuing and there are many puddles, pools and canals. Some parts require boots or high, really waterproof walking shoes in very wet weather. Bird lovers obviously don't forget their binoculars and/or photo lenses.
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A deck that is completely at home here...
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when you reserve a hammock at domain de Keiheuvel, you can relax in several places on the domain
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Resting place with a beautiful view over the stream
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Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most offers a unique blend of contrasting natural environments. You'll find wet valley areas with meandering rivers, marshlands, and meadows, alongside higher-lying dry inland dunes, heathland, and coniferous forests. This diverse terrain provides a varied and captivating hiking experience.
There are over 20 hiking trails available in Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most, catering to various preferences and skill levels. You can choose from easy strolls to more challenging excursions.
Yes, Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most offers many easy trails. For example, the Bridge Over the Asbeek – Hammock Rest Point Jangmat loop from Scheps is an easy 6.3 km route. Another great option is the Boardwalk Trail – Saint Odrada Chapel and Well loop from Colruyt, which is 4.5 km and takes you through natural areas and past historical sites.
The region is rich in natural and historical attractions. You can explore the unique De Keiheuvel Sand Dunes, walk along the De Most Forest Path, or visit historical sites like the Hoolst Watermill, which dates back to the 13th century.
Yes, many of the trails in Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point. An example is the Natural Ponds in De Most – De Most Nature Reserve loop from Keiheuvel, an easy 5.4 km route.
Yes, Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most is generally dog-friendly, with dedicated dog zones and paths. However, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash, especially in nature reserves, to protect local wildlife and plants.
The diverse landscapes of Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most offer unique experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming flora, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant colors. Even winter hiking can be beautiful, with the possibility of frosty landscapes. The best time depends on your preference for scenery and weather.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1600 reviews. Reviewers often praise the region's diverse ecosystems, the well-maintained trails, and the peaceful atmosphere that allows for excellent wildlife spotting.
While many trails are easy, there are also moderate options. For instance, the Bridge Over the Asbeek – Boardwalk Trail loop from Balen is a moderate 12.1 km path that guides hikers through varied landscapes, including a boardwalk section. There is also one difficult route available for those seeking a greater challenge.
Yes, parking is generally available at various access points to the nature reserves and trailheads within Grote Netevallei Te Balen Met De Most. Specific parking information can often be found on individual route descriptions or local signage.
The region is a Natura 2000 protected area, home to diverse wildlife. In the wet areas, you might spot rare fish species like beekprik and kleine modderkruiper, and dragonflies such as bronlibel. The dry areas and forests provide habitat for birds like the black woodpecker and European honey buzzard, as well as insects like the heivlinder.
Yes, several trails feature boardwalk sections, which are particularly popular for navigating the wetter parts of the valley and marshlands. The Boardwalk in the nature reserve – Marshy loop from Balen is a great example, offering an easy 4.65 km walk through these unique environments.


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