Winterslag colliery

What makes Vennestraat so special? The diversity! The cross-fertilisation of cultures has resulted in the creation of atmospheric restaurants, cafés, traditional and specialised shops, galleries and creative undertakings. Thanks to the mines’ cultural injection, this street has become Winterslag’s cosmopolitan artery.

Armed with an expedition belt and booklet, you and your whole family go on a quest to learn who Cyriel is and what he is up to in the mine of Winterslag. Unravel the mystery and who knows, maybe you’ll receive a medal as a souvenir of this special tour!

The game can be played during the opening hours of C-mine expedition, at your own pace. It lasts on average 1.5 hours and is suitable for children six years and older. The expedition booklet contains extra craft pages to get started with at home.The game is played in the C-mine expedition and is suitable for children aged 6 to 12 years. (Only in Dutch and French).

Anyone who visits Genk shouldn't miss C-mine. This creative hotbed lives and breathes a unique atmosphere. At the former Winterslag mining site, respect for the industrial past goes hand in hand with contemporary, artistic industriousness.

There is plenty to do both in and around the former mining buildings. Have you heard about the C-mine expedition, for example, an underground experience tour? A must-see for anyone who wants to find out more about Genk’s mining history!

The impressive, restored Energy building (Energiegebouw) is the beating heart of C-mine. There, you will find the C-mine visitors’ reception, where you can go with all your questions about the site, as well as activities and excursions in Genk and the surrounding area.

Are you planning a visit to C-mine on the former mining site in Genk? Then you cannot pass by the interactive C-mine expedition! This adventurous tour will immerse you in fascinating tales about the mine and will indulge all your senses. An impressive fan welcomes you on a surprising route through underground passages. Take up the challenge and climb up the pit head which is over 60 metres tall! Once you are on top, you will enjoy a fantastic view of the green Limburg surroundings.

Make your way through one kilometre of steel corridors on C-mine square and discover the numerous spaces which allow you to experience the surroundings from new perspectives.

Behind the installation are two young designers, the art and architects duo Gijs Van Vaerenbergh, who have already surprised the region with their ‘see-through church’ in Borgloon.

The newest blockbusters, the smell of popcorn and the craziest events for all? Yep, that sounds like Euroscoop. Euroscoop has different cinemas, each with a unique character. The most important thing to mention that at Euroscoop you’ll get a smile, a service to complete your cinema experience. The former mine in Genk now turned into the cultural hotspot of the city, C-Mine. Euroscoop Genk is a beautiful cinema located in one of the old mine buildings.

The combination of multicultural urbanity and greenery makes Genk a unique base. First marvel at the impressive remnants of the mining industry, then finish among the tall trees of the National Park.

Book your rental bike online at www.fietsparadijslimburg.be. On the day of your trip, you can pick up the key at C-mine's visitors' reception.

Rental period 2024
From March 15 through November 3rd:
● Mon (and holidays that fall on Mondays): 13 - 17u
● Tue - Sun (and holidays and bridge days): 10 - 17 u

On offer:
● City bicycles with or without a child's seat
● Electric bicycles
● Cycling bags

Collecting a bike
You can pick up your bike keys at the visitor center desk.

Returning a bike

● Possible after closing time until 6.30 p.m.

Parking
Free parking within walking distance:
● C-mine car park 1 (covered)
● C-mine parking 2 & 3

Vennestraat starts in the shadow of C-mine, literally. It is Genk’s cosmopolitan artery, with its restaurants and cafes, specialised shops and galleries, and its fresh market every Saturday. Together, C-mine and Vennestraat offer an exciting pairing: while one inspires and fascinates, the other offers relaxation and enjoyment.

Over the past few years, and with lots of loving attention, Vennestraat has transformed into a street full of sensual delights. It’s a street that invites you to wander and stroll, and to sample its mouth-wateringly delicious popular foods.

Where to go if you want your choice of 18 types of pasta? What’s the name of that place where they have that traditional Belgian miners’ beer on tap? Where can you take a bite out of those delicious Genk-style cookies? The free booklet ‘Soul food in de Vennestraat’ guides you to shops, cafes and restaurants with origins all over the world. From a Turkish supermarket over a Greek restaurant or an Italian specialty shop to a cozy Flemish coffee house. The booklet comes with a handy map, a brief description of each business and tips for fun day trips, such as art galleries, pop-up shops or antiquing – it’s all listed in here.

Pick up your free booklet at the C-mine visitor reception desk.