You don't have to head to the coast if you’re looking for dunes! For a brisk hike, we recommend the Duinengordel, a nature reserve with lots of inland dunes in the Limburgse Kempen region. Along the way, expect spectacular nature with purple-flowering heathland, sand dunes, unique plants and some remarkable critters.
Start in the centre of Gruitrode near the Commandery. It belonged to the Order of the Teutonic Knights and to one of the commanderies under the Grand Commandery Alden Biesen.
The first part of the route is flat, but as you head deeper into the forest, you start to notice the route's special relief. Since the 19th century, the coniferous forests have predominantly been planted for the mining industry.
When leaving the forest behind, you suddenly find yourself at the foot of the huge sand giant, which you climb to the top. Oudsberg is said to be the largest open dune in Flanders. And the views are just as impressive!
Nature along the way is managed by the Agency for Nature and Forests, Natuurpunt and Limburgs Landschap.
This walk has been awarded the hiking label “Leading Quality Trails – Best of Europe, Day Walk.” Expect a top-quality walking route.
- Yellow hiking route
- 15.44 km
- Intermediate
- Hoge Kempen National Park
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Commanderij van Gruitrode
Phil Bosmansplein 1
OUDSBERGEN