Attractions and Places To See around Zoutleeuw - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Zoutleeuw include a blend of historic landmarks and natural features in the Hageland region of Belgium. The town is characterized by its rich past as a trading center and its serene landscapes, including Flanders' only natural inland lake. Visitors can explore cultural sites, architectural examples, and extensive nature reserves. The area offers a variety of walking and cycling routes through varied terrain.
Best attractions and places to see around Zoutleeuw
- The most popular…
Last updated: August 2, 2026
Floating Chapel of Helshoven
Highlight • Monument
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Schulensmeer
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Het Vinne
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Helshoven Chapel and Hermitage
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The Helshoven Chapel, located …
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Webbekoms Broek Nature Reserve
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The Schulensmeer is located in the Schulensbroek nature reserve. It is currently 2.8 km long, approximately 180 m wide and 5 to 7 m deep. It is a prime location for water recreation: kayaking, surfing, sailing, rowing, SUP... Walkers and anglers are also welcome. Furthermore, the lake is known far beyond its borders for its birdlife.
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At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.
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Webbekoms Broek is part of the Webbekomsbroek-Borchbeemden Flemish Nature Reserve, a contiguous area of 397 hectares managed by the Flemish Agency for Nature and Forests. This also includes the Diesters Broek, the Schaffens Broek, and the Borchbeemden: Rotbroek, Gorenbroek, and Sint-Jansberg. Several watercourses flow through the area. The most important of these is the Demer. The others are primarily its tributary, the Zwarte Beek, the Grote Leigracht, and the Leigracht. The Demer Valley has been plagued by floods for centuries. The most severe floods in recent history date back to 1998. There were also serious floods in Diest in 2008. To prevent severe water damage, retention basins and floodplains were installed. The Webbekoms Broek and its surroundings constitute a floodplain. In September 1998, a retention basin with a surface area of 144 hectares was put into operation in the Webbekoms Broek. The area can hold 3.5 million m³ of water. There is an inner basin and an outer basin. The inner basin is surrounded by dikes. The remainder forms the outer basin, which primarily functions as a nature reserve.
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The Schulensmeer is the largest inland lake in Flanders. Numerous benches invite you to take a break.
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Beautiful Chapel, unfortunately the crypt is closed
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Very relaxing, beautiful well-maintained paths.
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beautiful chapel with a lot of name and fame
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Beautiful artificial lake, there are many water birds here. You can take a walk on the dikes around the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What historical and cultural sites can I explore in Zoutleeuw?
Zoutleeuw is rich in history. You can visit the magnificent St. Leonard's Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its Sacrament Tower and ancient carillon bells. The Grote Markt features the 16th-century Town Hall and stately patrician houses. Other notable sites include the Helshoven Chapel and Hermitage, dating back to the 13th century, and the Chapel of Our Lady of the Star of the Sea, reflecting the town's past as a port.
Are there any nature reserves or natural attractions in Zoutleeuw?
Yes, the Provinciedomein Het Vinne is a major natural highlight. This expansive nature reserve, covering 130 hectares, is home to Flanders' only natural inland lake, Lake Het Vinne. It offers walking paths, a birdwatching hut, a bee village, and a herb garden. You can also explore the Zoutleeuw Forest and the River Kleine Gete.
What outdoor activities are available around Zoutleeuw?
The area around Zoutleeuw is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous walking and cycling routes through the Hageland countryside. For specific trails, consider exploring the MTB Trails around Zoutleeuw, Running Trails around Zoutleeuw, or Cycling routes around Zoutleeuw. A unique experience is crossing the Suspension bridge over the Grote Gete, known as the Golden Geet, which leads into a nature reserve.
Are there family-friendly attractions in Zoutleeuw?
Absolutely! The Provinciedomein Het Vinne is very family-friendly, featuring a playground, a play forest, a bee village, and a sensory experience path. The Suspension bridge over the Grote Gete is also a fun and adventurous spot for families. Many walking routes in the area are suitable for all ages.
What unique art installations can I find in the area?
Zoutleeuw is home to the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, an art installation by Frits Jeuris. This unique cherrywood chapel is inspired by the nearby Helshoven Chapel and offers breathtaking views of the Haspengouw landscape from its elevated position.
Are there any accessible trails or attractions for visitors with mobility needs?
Yes, the Provinciedomein Het Vinne is designed with accessibility in mind. Lake Het Vinne and its surrounding paths are wheelchair accessible. The visitor center at Het Vinne also offers two all-terrain wheelchairs and slings free of charge for visitors.
What is the best time of year to visit Zoutleeuw for outdoor activities?
The spring and summer months are ideal for enjoying Zoutleeuw's outdoor attractions, especially when the fruit plantations in nearby Halle and Dormaal are in bloom or bearing fruit. The Provinciedomein Het Vinne is accessible daily from sunrise to sunset, making it enjoyable throughout the warmer seasons.
Can I go birdwatching or spot wildlife in Zoutleeuw?
Yes, the Provinciedomein Het Vinne is an excellent location for birdwatching and wildlife spotting. As Flanders' only natural inland lake, it attracts a variety of migratory birds. There is a dedicated birdwatching hut within the domain to enhance your experience.
Where can I find scenic viewpoints in Zoutleeuw?
For panoramic views, visit the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, which is situated at the highest point of Helshoven. The Uitkijktoren Het Vinne also provides scenic views over the Provinciedomein Het Vinne. Additionally, Mount Saint Leonard offers elevated viewpoints over the surrounding area.
Are there any unique walking experiences in Zoutleeuw?
Beyond traditional trails, you can experience the Boardwalk through Het Vinne, which allows you to walk with dry feet through sections of the nature reserve, giving the sensation of walking on water. The Het Vinnepad is an 8.5 km circular route around the natural inland lake.
What is the significance of the Waterpoort in Zoutleeuw?
The Waterpoort – “3 sluizen” (Water Gate – “3 locks”) is a historical water management structure. It stands as a testament to Zoutleeuw's past importance as a trading center and its strategic location along the River Kleine Gete, which was historically a significant trade route.
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