The Puddle

Are you a fan of outdoor activities with beautiful nature as a backdrop? Then the Plas is just the thing for you! Climbing, sailing, surfing, fishing, paintball,... it's all possible. If you prefer to keep it a bit quieter, you can also enjoy a pleasant walk here.

Nature location "De Plas" belongs to the Kelchterhoef domain.

The Plas is part of De Wijers, a vast nature reserve consisting of 1001 ponds. It is managed by the Agency for Nature and Forests in close cooperation with the municipality of Houthalen-Helchteren and various associations. Together, we provide an extensive range of recreation activities in a unique natural setting. Something for everybody.

Walk

There is a walking route around the entire lake of 2.6 km. Halfway you pass the nature zone, which turns a beautiful purple because of the flowering heather, especially during the summer. In spring, you may hear the croaking of the toads and frogs here. The rare natterjack toad feels very much at home here.

Fish

The Mohican, or one of the largest carp in Western Europe, lives on De Plas. With a weight of more than 40 kg, you can't call this a pushover. If you want to fish for carp yourself, you have to register yourself with the Association of Belgian Carp Anglers.

Water Sports & Adventure

For the real adrenaline rush. You should definitely try the ropes course in the forest. For the water rats there are various sailing and surfing opportunities. A team building, mountain biking with colleagues or a sports camp for the children? The Watersport and Adventure Centre Limburg is the club that can help you with everything. Paintballing is possible on one of the four extensive nature reserves.

Swim

The lake is an old sand extraction pit and is dangerously deep in some places, up to 10 meters. It is therefore very dangerous to swim here on your own. Only during July and August is it allowed to swim at the beach area when the green flag is flying. At that point, your safety is guaranteed by rescuers.

Events

Every year, De Plas is the base for a number of exciting events. In May, one of the biggest dance festivals in Belgium takes place. Extrema Outdoor Belgium. on which about 40000 visitors go crazy. You will also find the annual Chiro party here. unusual cars from the Free Outlaws, motorcycle meeting of the Kawa Z Club and the Youth Festival of the Turkish Union.

Source: information board at the entrance of De Plas

Eddy&Rita