The Clapper Magpie

De Klapekster is the visitor center of Natuurpunt Markvallei for Wortel Kolonie, the Castelreesche Heide and the Valley of the Merkske.

History

The building used to serve as a farm for the vagrants. After the abolition of the vagrancy law in 1993, the site came into the hands of Stichting Kempens Landschap. Natuurpunt Markvallei received part of the building on lease through the city of Hoogstraten in 2005????.
The department's volunteers spent a year and a half of their free time turning it into a visitor center and association room.

De Klapekster - Natuurpunt Markvallei

De Klapekster is the ideal starting point for a walk in nature.

The visitor center De Klapekster is the gateway to the nature reserve of the Valley of the Merkske. De Klapekster is a place to be stimulated to go outside, to experience everything in nature and to share the experiences in a warm environment with others while enjoying a drink.

In addition, all kinds of activities, guided walks, lectures and courses are organized. You can also visit a temporary exhibition of the photo working group, with beautiful nature photos.

Families will find an ideal walking companion in the company of Ekstertje Klap! This backpack with all kinds of fun toys can especially appeal to children from 4 to 8 years old.
"Vossenstreken" is a fun and active hiking app for children from 5 to 12 years old.

As a group you can book a guided walk. The application must be received fourteen days in advance.

As Pure Kempen Café, visitor centre De Klapekster is also a promoter of local products. In addition, it also received the label of "Fietscafé" from Tourism Province of Antwerp.

PRACTICAL

Accessibility

Visitor centre De Klapekster
Nature Point Mark Valley
Colony 41, 2323 Carrot – Google Maps

Opening hours

Wednesday to Saturday from 13:00 to 17:00
Sunday from 10:30 to 18:00
for groups also on request
Contact / info / reservation:

bc.deklapekster@natuurpunt.be
03 383 02 08 (only during opening hours)

Drej