Attractions and Places To See around Hechtel-Eksel - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Hechtel-Eksel include diverse natural landscapes and historical sites. This municipality in the Belgian province of Limburg is part of Bosland National Park, Flanders' largest adventure forest. It offers extensive opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling, featuring varied terrain from dense forests to sand dunes. The region combines significant natural features with notable landmarks.
Best attractions and places to see around Hechtel-Eksel
- The most popular attractions is Cycling through the Trees,…
Last updated: May 25, 2026
Cycling through the Trees
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Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower
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German War Cemetery Lommel
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De Boom In by Will Beckers
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S-Bridge Over the Bocholt-Herentals Canal
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The S-shaped construction is made of steel and wood and is suspended from two steel pylons.
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Popular around Hechtel-Eksel
Flanders' Finest Cycle Routes: routes to discover Flemish nature and heritage
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Cycling on Belgium’s most beautiful bike paths — 10 boucles à vélo
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Cycling around Hechtel-Eksel
Road Cycling Routes around Hechtel-Eksel
Running Trails around Hechtel-Eksel
MTB Trails around Hechtel-Eksel
Gravel biking around Hechtel-Eksel
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Tips from the Community
You cycle under the S-shaped bridge...
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Beautiful art made from natural materials.
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Sturdy beautiful bridge. Ideal for pedestrians to safely cross the canal here and thus avoid the bridge of the busy N746.
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This 30-meter-high observation tower has three platforms that offer you a wide view of the surroundings.
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Beautiful tower with accompanying views that are equally spectacular...
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The various sculptures and art objects give a special appeal to a cycle path in this area. In addition, the information boards are very informative and often have to do with the life of butterflies.
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Since 1953, the German War Graves Commission has looked after the cemetery. He maintains a large information center there and also a youth meeting place. About 25 to 30,000 people visit this cemetery every year. In May 1995 a ginkgo tree was planted as a sign of hope and remembrance of the war and the first use of nuclear weapons on August 6, 1945 over Hiroshima. A commemorative plaque reads in 3 languages: "As a sign of the hope of peace. Planted on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the end of the war”. In the center of the cemetery is a memorial column originally erected in the Brussels-Evere cemetery.
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The cemetery was officially inaugurated on September 6, 1959. Before that, the soldiers who died in World War II had been buried by the American burial service in five collective cemeteries in the region. From 1946 the reburial of the fallen from the collective cemeteries to Lommel began. As a result, not only the former temporary collective cemeteries of Henri-Chapelle, Fosse, Overrepen and Neuville-en-Condroz were dissolved, but also the German military cemetery from World War I in Leopoldsburg with 542 dead. Of 13,000 unknown soldiers, 7,000 were subsequently identified. Over 30,000 people visit the cemetery every year.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What unique cycling experiences can I find in Hechtel-Eksel?
Hechtel-Eksel is home to the iconic Cycling through the Trees, a circular cycling bridge that allows you to pedal up to 10 meters high, offering a unique perspective of the forest canopy. It's a truly immersive experience within Bosland.
Are there any significant historical sites to visit in the area?
Yes, a notable historical site is the German War Cemetery Lommel. This is the largest Western European cemetery from WWII, serving as the final resting place for over 39,000 German soldiers. It offers a place for reflection and remembrance.
Where can I find panoramic views of the landscape?
For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower. From its 30-meter height, you can see the Lommel Sahara, various ponds, and the surrounding forests, extending up to 25 km on a clear day.
What natural features define the Hechtel-Eksel region?
The region is characterized by its verdant landscapes and diverse natural features. It's part of Bosland National Park, Flanders' largest adventure forest, featuring dense forests and impressive sand dunes. The Nature Reserve In den Brand, for example, hosts the largest sandpit in Flanders.
Are there family-friendly activities or attractions available?
Absolutely. Many attractions are family-friendly, including Cycling through the Trees and the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower. Additionally, areas like Pijnven offer a 'forest pool' environment with playing meadows and climbing facilities, perfect for children. Resterheide also features child-friendly walking routes, some accessible for strollers.
What kind of hiking trails can I find around Hechtel-Eksel?
Hechtel-Eksel offers numerous hiking opportunities for all levels. You can explore trails within Bosland National Park, including the Nature Reserve In den Brand with its land dunes. For specific routes, you can find various options in the Running Trails around Hechtel-Eksel guide, which also includes walking paths.
Are there options for mountain biking or road cycling?
Yes, the region is excellent for cycling. Besides the unique Cycling through the Trees, you can find dedicated routes for both mountain biking and road cycling. Explore various trails in the MTB Trails around Hechtel-Eksel and Road Cycling Routes around Hechtel-Eksel guides.
What is the 'Iron Man' of Lommel?
The 'Iron Man' refers to the Geodetic Station Lommel. Established in 1852, this site marks a precisely determined line that served as the starting point for creating a new map of Belgium. It's a significant historical landmark in surveying.
Is Hechtel-Eksel known for any specific art installations?
Yes, you can discover unique art installations like De Boom In by Will Beckers. This braided sculpture is an example of land art that adds a special appeal to the local cycle paths and blends with the natural environment.
What is the best time of year to visit Hechtel-Eksel for outdoor activities?
Hechtel-Eksel is enjoyable year-round, but spring and autumn offer particularly pleasant weather for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking, with mild temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. Summer is also popular, especially for enjoying the forest and nature reserves.
Are there any nature reserves focused on conservation?
The Vallei van de Zwarte Beek (Source Area) is a significant nature reserve managed by Natuurpunt Hechtel-Eksel. It's actively involved in nature conservation, including efforts to restore ponds, heathland, and grasslands, and has even seen the return of breeding cranes.
What do visitors appreciate most about the attractions in Hechtel-Eksel?
Visitors frequently praise the unique experiences, such as the sensory journey of Cycling through the Trees, and the stunning panoramic views from the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower. The historical significance of sites like the German War Cemetery Lommel also leaves a lasting impression.
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