Winter hike in the Averbode Forest & Heath

Averbode Forest and Heath is located around the Abbey of Averbode, in the respective municipalities of Tessenderlo, Laakdal, and Scherpenheuvel-Zichem. It is the transition from the Kempen to the Hageland. Vast forests alternate with moors, swamps, heath, and meager meadows.

Humans have changed the landscape in Averbode Forest & Heath multiple times. The history of the area is mainly known since the founding of the Abbey of Averbode by the Norbertine brothers. Thanks to these brothers, the area was known for its high natural value.

This changed when the area came under the ownership of the noble family de Merode after Belgian independence in 1830. The forests suddenly had to yield profits. The timber harvest led to a one-sided management, causing many species to disappear.

In 2004, the family de Merode sold 1,500 hectares of their land. At the request of the Flemish government and upon the proposal of Natuurpunt, the Flemish Land Society then purchased the entire area. Subsequently, the sub-areas were sold to the various partners who collectively signed the 'Charter de Merode' to preserve the unity of the area. Averbode Forest & Heath is one of the sub-areas.

The abbey tower of the Norbertine abbey always helps you find your way back.

Natuurpunt currently manages 593 ha of nature reserve. Source: Natuurpunt

Departure: Abbey gatehouse
End: Abbey café Het Moment

By car: Parking spaces along the Herseltsebaan-Uitgeverijplein.

By public transport: From Brussels, take the IC train to Liège until Leuven. In Leuven, transfer to the L train to Hasselt, and then travel to Zichem or Testelt station. From there, it is another four kilometers on foot. You can also get off earlier in Aarschot and take the (Bell) Bus to Averbode from there.

From Antwerp-Berchem, take the L train to Leuven and ride until Aarschot. There, you can transfer to the L train to Hasselt and go to Zichem or Testelt station. From there, it is another four kilometers on foot. You can also take the (Bell) Bus to Averbode in Aarschot.

From Hasselt, take the L train to Leuven and get off at Zichem or Testelt. From there, it is another four kilometers on foot. On weekends, take the train to Landen.