Station As: Blue and Green

View the photos from this walk

We did this walk on 03/18/2026 (12,184 steps)

The route combines two marked walks: Station As – blue (5.8 km) and subsequently Station As – green (3.4 km).

The blue route runs over the Mechelse Heide North, where a former gravel pit shaped the landscape. The winding paths and stairs make this part sporty. Along the way, you will encounter some beautiful views, and via a short approach, you will reach the Windelsteen, which gives the nature reserve its name.

Those who are hungry after this section can stop for a snack and drink at Brasserie 't Stasjon - As.

The green route is the most varied part. You walk towards the Driebankenbos and along the narrow-gauge railway. In the former quarry, you can admire the geological wall, which shows the history of the Hoge Kempen. Via an 8.5 meter high tower, you can view the wall at different levels; at the top, you stand at the original ground level.

As a finale, you can climb the 31-meter high observation tower of As, a replica of the drilling tower with which André Dumont discovered the first coal in 1901. From a height of 25 meters, you can enjoy a panorama overlooking the spoil tips of Eisden, Winterslag, and Waterschei.

On Sundays (April to September), there is also a Mini Train running at 2 PM, 3 PM, and 4 PM.

Happy walking, Eddy, Rita, and Prinske