The best walks and hikes around Kempen
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Hiking around Kempen offers diverse landscapes, from expansive pine forests and vibrant heathlands to distinctive golden dunes and tranquil fens. The region is characterized by varied ecosystems, including rewilded former mining landscapes with "terrils" (slag heaps) that provide panoramic viewpoints. Numerous streams, lakes, and fens are integrated into the routes, contributing to the scenic variety. Hikers can experience a range of elevations, from gentle slopes to more challenging climbs up sand hills.
Best hiking trails around Kempen
- The most popular hiking route is Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Cartierheide, a 5.7 miles (9.2 km) trail that takes 2 hours 19 minutes to complete. This moderate route features boardwalks through heathland and water features.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Grenspark De Kempen, a moderate 7.7 miles (12.3 km) path. This trail offers varied terrain through heath and water landscapes, typically completed in 3 hours 6 minutes.
- Local hikers also love the Cartierheide – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Weebosch, a 2.7 miles (4.3 km) trail leading through heathland and featuring boardwalks, often completed in about 1 hour 5 minutes.
- Hiking around Kempen is defined by pine forests, blooming heathlands, and former mining landscapes. The extensive network offers options for various ability levels, from easy walks to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Kempen are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 1000 reviews. More than 5000 hikers have used komoot to explore Kempen's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 23, 2026
4.6
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(184)
588
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.7
(59)
402
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(35)
147
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(35)
140
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Other adventures around Kempen
Tips from the Community
The Cartierheide is a vast heathland and fenland in the Brabant Kempen region, named after the Belgian Baron De Cartier de Marchienne, who protected this landscape from exploitation in the early 20th century. Here, you can walk through a mosaic of purple heathlands, tranquil forests, and glistening fens, where silence and vastness prevail. A highlight is the boardwalk, which takes you straight through the wet heathland and offers a unique perspective on this unique landscape. In summer, the heather is in full bloom, turning the fields purple. Along the way, you can often spot birds such as the European stonechat or a buzzard. The Cartierheide is part of the cross-border Grenspark De Kempen and perfectly illustrates what nature once looked like in large parts of Brabant: rugged, open, and rich in diversity.
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beautiful panoramic views over the Cartierheide and a fen
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beautifully landscaped boardwalk in the Kempen nature reserve
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beautifully landscaped boardwalk in the Kempen nature reserve
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Today I ran into the cow farmer. It was a strange sight, suddenly a car on a very quiet path. An exception!
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beautiful, large heathland - a pity that the flowering period only lasts a few weeks
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Archaeological excavations in the south of the area have established that the heathland was already inhabited in the late Bronze Age, also known as the Urnfield culture. Traces of prehistoric habitation and flint artifacts were found during this excavation. Several discoveries dating back to the Iron Age have also been made throughout the area. These include a number of urnfields and indications of a settlement. During this period, the area was inhabited by the Eburones. The locations of these discoveries have since been designated as national archaeological monuments. Source and more information: Wikipedia
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The Kempen (formerly called Kempenland or Toxandria) is a sandy region in northeastern Belgium and the Dutch province of North Brabant, south of the Eindhoven-Tilburg line. The name of the region is a corruption of the word Campinia or Campina, which is Latin for open plain. In the late Roman period, the region was called Toxandria. The Toxandrians are also known as Eburones in the writings of Julius Caesar. Toxandria refers to yew, which ebur in Eburones also refers to. Source and more information: Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Kempen?
Kempen offers a vast network of hiking trails, with over 150 routes recorded on komoot. These range from easy strolls to more challenging paths, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Kempen?
Hikers in Kempen will discover a remarkably diverse landscape. The region features expansive pine forests, vibrant heathlands that bloom beautifully in late summer, and distinctive golden dunes. You'll also encounter tranquil fens, lakes, and unique rewilded former mining landscapes with 'terrils' (slag heaps) that offer panoramic views.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or casual walkers?
Yes, Kempen has plenty of options for easy walks. Nearly two-thirds of the trails, specifically 94 routes, are classified as easy. An example is the Cartierheide – Boardwalk through Cartierheide loop from Weebosch, an easy 2.7-mile (4.3 km) trail through heathland.
Are there any challenging hikes in Kempen for experienced hikers?
While most trails are easy to moderate, there are a few more challenging options. The region's former mining landscapes, with their 'terrils' (slag heaps), offer steeper climbs and rewarding panoramic viewpoints for those seeking a more strenuous experience.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the trails in Kempen?
The hiking trails in Kempen are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.4 stars from over 1000 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the diverse landscapes, from the peaceful heathlands and forests to the unique former mining areas, as well as the well-maintained paths.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Kempen?
Yes, many of the trails in Kempen are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and end at the same point. For instance, the Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Cartierheide is a popular moderate loop through heathland and water features.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the hiking trails?
Kempen's trails offer numerous natural features and points of interest. You can explore the unique heathlands of Cartierheide, walk along the Boardwalk through Cartierheide, or discover the tranquil area of The Groot Pannegoor. The region's former mining hills also provide excellent viewpoints.
Is Kempen a good destination for family-friendly hikes?
Yes, Kempen is well-suited for family hikes, especially with its abundance of easy and moderate trails. The varied landscapes, including boardwalks through heathlands and gentle paths, offer engaging experiences for all ages. Many routes are relatively flat, making them accessible for families.
Are dogs allowed on the hiking trails in Kempen?
Generally, the Hoge Kempen National Park, which encompasses much of the region, is dog-friendly. However, it's important to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors.
Are there hiking trails that offer scenic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The rewilded 'terrils' (slag heaps) from the region's mining past, such as the Tweelingsterril and Lange terril, now serve as fantastic viewpoints, offering panoramic vistas across the diverse Kempen landscape, sometimes even as far as Germany.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Kempen?
Kempen offers beautiful hiking experiences year-round. However, late summer is particularly stunning when the heathlands burst into vibrant purple bloom. Spring brings fresh greenery, while autumn showcases rich fall colors. Even in winter, the unique landscapes have a serene beauty.
Are there any trails that feature water elements like lakes or fens?
Yes, water features are an integral part of Kempen's landscape. Many routes incorporate streams, lakes, and fens. For example, the Boardwalk through Cartierheide – Heather with water loop from Grenspark De Kempen offers varied terrain through heath and water landscapes, and areas like Bergerven and Pietersheim feature tranquil lakes and reflecting fens.
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