The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Kempen
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Family friendly hiking trails around Kempen traverse a diverse landscape characterized by expansive pine forests, vibrant heathlands, and unique golden dunes. The region also features tranquil fens and rewilded former mining areas, known as "terrils," which offer panoramic viewpoints. This varied topography provides a range of natural environments for outdoor exploration. The Hoge Kempen National Park, Belgium's first national park, is a central hub for many of these routes.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Kempen
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Cartierheide, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 19 minutes to complete. This moderate route features boardwalks through heathland and water loops.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Cartierheide – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Cartierheide, an easy 2.7 miles (4.3 km) path. This shorter loop is ideal for families looking for a gentle walk through the Cartierheide.
- Local hikers also love the Heather with water – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Cartierheide, a 6.5 miles (10.5 km) trail leading through heathland and water features, often completed in about 2 hours 39 minutes.
- Hiking around Kempen is defined by pine forests, blooming heathlands, golden dunes, and fens. The extensive network of routes offers options for various ability levels, including many easy and moderate family friendly trails.
- The routes in Kempen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 1100 reviews. More than 6000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kempen's varied terrain.
Last updated: August 8, 2026
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.2
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161
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Kempen
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Tips from the Community
Forest paths around Spijkertse heide near Eersel
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The Cartierheide is a vast heathland and fenland in the Brabant Kempen region, named after the Belgian Baron De Cartier de Marchienne, who protected this landscape from exploitation in the early 20th century. Here, you can walk through a mosaic of purple heathlands, tranquil forests, and glistening fens, where silence and vastness prevail. A highlight is the boardwalk, which takes you straight through the wet heathland and offers a unique perspective on this unique landscape. In summer, the heather is in full bloom, turning the fields purple. Along the way, you can often spot birds such as the European stonechat or a buzzard. The Cartierheide is part of the cross-border Grenspark De Kempen and perfectly illustrates what nature once looked like in large parts of Brabant: rugged, open, and rich in diversity.
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beautiful panoramic views over the Cartierheide and a fen
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beautifully landscaped boardwalk in the Kempen nature reserve
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beautifully landscaped boardwalk in the Kempen nature reserve
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quiet seating area with a view of the meadow and heathland
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beautiful, large heathland - a pity that the flowering period only lasts a few weeks
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Archaeological excavations in the south of the area have established that the heathland was already inhabited in the late Bronze Age, also known as the Urnfield culture. Traces of prehistoric habitation and flint artifacts were found during this excavation. Several discoveries dating back to the Iron Age have also been made throughout the area. These include a number of urnfields and indications of a settlement. During this period, the area was inhabited by the Eburones. The locations of these discoveries have since been designated as national archaeological monuments. Source and more information: Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Kempen?
Kempen offers a wide selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 140 routes specifically categorized as easy or moderate, perfect for outings with children. In total, there are over 148 hiking tours to explore in the region.
What makes Kempen a great destination for family hikes?
Kempen is ideal for families due to its diverse and engaging landscapes, including expansive pine forests, vibrant heathlands, and unique golden dunes. The region, especially within the Hoge Kempen National Park, features well-maintained paths, boardwalks, and varied scenery that keeps children entertained. Many trails are designed to be accessible and offer opportunities to spot wildlife or enjoy natural playgrounds.
What do other hikers say about the family-friendly trails in Kempen?
The family-friendly trails in Kempen are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful, varied landscapes, the well-marked paths, and the peaceful atmosphere, making them perfect for a relaxing day out with the family.
Are there family-friendly trails in Kempen accessible by public transport?
Yes, some family-friendly trails in Kempen are accessible by public transport, particularly those near the entrance gates of the Hoge Kempen National Park. It's advisable to check local bus schedules and routes to specific trailheads before planning your trip.
Are there parking facilities available at the trailheads for family hikes?
Many family-friendly trailheads in Kempen, especially at the various entrance gates of the Hoge Kempen National Park, offer free parking facilities. For example, routes like the Cartierheide – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Cartierheide often have convenient parking nearby.
Are there any pushchair or toddler-friendly trails in Kempen?
While many trails are generally easy, specific pushchair or toddler-friendly routes with fully paved or very smooth surfaces might be limited. However, areas with boardwalks, such as parts of Cartierheide, can be more accessible. Always check the trail description and terrain details on komoot for specific routes to ensure suitability for pushchairs.
Can I find circular family walks in Kempen?
Absolutely! Many family-friendly routes in Kempen are designed as circular walks, allowing you to start and end at the same point, which is convenient for families. An example is the Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Cartierheide, offering a scenic loop experience.
What kind of natural landmarks or points of interest can we see on family hikes?
Family hikes in Kempen offer a variety of natural landmarks. You can explore unique golden dunes, expansive heathlands, and tranquil fens. Specific highlights include the Boardwalk through Cartierheide, which takes you through beautiful heathland and water loops, and the vast forests of Bosland. You might also encounter the unique 'terrils' (slag heaps) from former mining areas, which now offer panoramic views.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along family-friendly trails?
Yes, several entrance gates to the Hoge Kempen National Park and popular hiking areas often have catering facilities or cafes nearby. For example, the The Wild Boar Inn is a highlight that could serve as a refreshment stop. It's a good idea to check specific trail information for amenities along your chosen route.
When is the best time of year for family hikes in Kempen?
The Kempen region is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, the forests come alive with fresh greenery, while autumn offers stunning colors. Summer is also great, especially in shaded forest areas. If you visit in late summer/early autumn, you might catch the heathlands in full bloom, creating a spectacular purple landscape.
Are dogs allowed on family-friendly trails in Kempen?
Many trails in Kempen, including those within the Hoge Kempen National Park, are dog-friendly, though dogs are generally required to be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and other hikers. Always check specific signage at trailheads for any local restrictions or designated dog-free zones.
Are there shorter, easy walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, Kempen offers several shorter and easier walks perfect for families with young children. For instance, the Cartierheide – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Cartierheide is an easy route just over 4 km, making it manageable for little legs. Look for routes marked as 'easy' with shorter distances on komoot.
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