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Belgium
Flanders
East Flanders
Aalst

Kravaalbos

Attractions and Places To See in Kravaalbos - Top 15

Best attractions and places to see in Kravaalbos include natural reserves and historical sites. This region features a large forest, a remnant of the ancient Coal Forest, known for its diverse flora and historical significance related to sandstone quarrying. Kravaalbos offers a landscape shaped by both natural processes and human activity over centuries. It provides opportunities to explore varied terrain and discover its past.

Best attractions and places to see in Kravaalbos

  • The most popular attractions is Kravaalbos Forest, a forest that is a remnant of the former Coal Forest. This approximately 80-hectare forest is known for its varied paths and historical connection to quarries.
  • Another must-see spot is Pond of the Old Sandstone Quarry Kravaalbos, a lake formed in a historic quarry. This large pond is a result of sandstone extraction that dates back to the 12th century.
  • Visitors also love Historic permanent grassland, a natural area maintained through grazing. This grassland is valued for its age and ecological significance, providing habitat for various fauna.
  • Kravaalbos is known for forests, historical sites, and natural monuments. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient woodlands to cultural landmarks.
  • The attractions in Kravaalbos are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 280 upvotes and 90 photos shared.

Last updated: May 8, 2026

Kravaalbos Forest

Highlight • Forest

An old forest on the edge of the faluintjes. The forest is a remnant of the former Coal Forest. In the autumn, enjoy the colours and scents. In the spring, the purple Bluebells.
A must to wander around in this forest.

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The large pond in the Kravaalbos forest is a remnant of a historic quarry. As early as the 12th century, a closed farmstead, once used for stone quarrying, stood on the site of Hof te Putte. Hof te Putte and Putstraat clearly refer to the quarries. The forest also owes its name to them. Kravaal comes from "car" and "vaal," meaning "stone" and "valley."
(Kravaalbos Hiking Brochure)

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Historic permanent grassland

Highlight • Natural

To maintain grassland, some form of management is necessary: mowing, grazing, or a combination of both. This grassland has long been used as pasture, formerly for horses, now for sheep. Grazing causes less disruption and provides more structure to the vegetation than mowing. Animals don't graze everywhere or with the same intensity. It also kills fewer beneficial insects and other fauna than when using machinery. The manure produced by grazers is useful for many invertebrate dung-eaters, and therefore also for insectivores.
(Brochure: Discover the Kravaal Forest)

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Gravel Path in Kravaalbos

Highlight • Trail

One of the few possibilities to drive through the Kravaalbos. smooth running gravel.

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Saint Dymphna Chapel - Meldert (Aalst)

Highlight • Religious Site

The chapel in the Putstraat was founded in 1886 by the Robyns family for their brother Frans. At the time, he was struck by insanity after an assault, according to an article from 1997 by the Heemkundige Kring De Faluintjes. For centuries, prayers have been addressed to Saint Dymphna for the healing of people with mental illness. And everyone, from afar or nearby, has to deal with psychological problems.

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Dominiek Van Dooren
December 29, 2025, Historisch permanent graslandschap

To maintain grassland, some form of management is necessary: mowing, grazing, or a combination of both. This grassland has long been used as pasture, formerly for horses, now for sheep. Grazing causes less disruption and provides more structure to the vegetation than mowing. Animals don't graze everywhere or with the same intensity. It also kills fewer beneficial insects and other fauna than when using machinery. The manure produced by grazers is useful for many invertebrate dung-eaters, and therefore also for insectivores. (Brochure: Discover the Kravaal Forest)

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Where once one of Meldert's most important quarries lay, now the clear water of a large pond sparkles. At first this was a marshland, but in 1962 a stream was dammed and the quarry filled up.

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Enjoy the view. Some grasslands are more valuable to nature than others. Some grasslands have an exceptionally high natural value due to their age, unique location or because they have been managed as a nature reserve for many years. We call these grasslands 'historically permanent grasslands'. You can read more information on the information board on site.

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beautiful views, easy country roads, extension possible in the Kravaal forest

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Beautiful, quiet forest. Some very muddy passages due to the persistent rain of the last months.

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Saint Dymphna (also Dymfna, Dimfna, Dympna or Dymphna) of Geel is a female saint (virgin and martyr) from the seventh century, about whom no historical data is known. She is the patron saint of the Belgian city of Geel. Her name day is on May 15.

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Varied forest, beautiful paths that can sometimes be muddy. Furthermore, the forest feels rather wild, fallen trees are only removed on narrower paths if the passage is too much hindered. Much attention is also paid to ensuring that the permanent forest inhabitants can do their thing as undisturbed as possible.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there easy walking trails in Kravaalbos?

Yes, Kravaalbos offers several easy hiking trails. For example, you can find routes like the 'Observation Tower - Stinnetjesaan' loop, which is approximately 4.4 km, or the 'Bench With View of the Fields' loop, around 3.7 km. These are suitable for a relaxed stroll. You can find more easy hikes in the area on the Easy hikes in Kravaalbos guide.

What natural features can I explore in Kravaalbos?

Kravaalbos is primarily known for its extensive forest, a remnant of the ancient Coal Forest. You can explore the Kravaalbos Forest itself, which features varied paths and diverse flora. Another significant natural feature is the Pond of the Old Sandstone Quarry Kravaalbos, a large pond formed in a historic quarry. Additionally, there's the Historic permanent grassland, maintained through grazing, which holds ecological significance.

What historical sites can I visit in Kravaalbos?

The region has a rich history tied to sandstone quarrying. The Pond of the Old Sandstone Quarry Kravaalbos is a direct result of this activity, with quarrying dating back to the 12th century. You can also visit the Saint Dymphna Chapel - Meldert (Aalst), a historical religious building founded in 1886.

Are the trails in Kravaalbos suitable for families?

Yes, Kravaalbos offers several family-friendly options. The Historic permanent grassland and the area around the Bluebells in the Forest are noted as family-friendly. Many of the easy walking trails are also suitable for families. You can find more details on family-friendly routes in the Easy hikes in Kravaalbos guide.

When is the best time to visit Kravaalbos?

Kravaalbos offers different experiences throughout the year. In autumn, the forest is known for its beautiful colors and scents. Spring is particularly special for seeing the purple Bluebells in the Forest. The varied paths can sometimes be muddy, so consider visiting during drier periods or wearing appropriate footwear.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Kravaalbos?

Kravaalbos is a protected nature reserve, providing habitat for various fauna. The management of the Historic permanent grassland, for example, is designed to support beneficial insects and other invertebrates, which in turn attract insectivores. The forest's wild character means that fallen trees are often left to ensure permanent forest inhabitants can thrive undisturbed.

Are there mountain biking trails in Kravaalbos?

Yes, Kravaalbos has mountain biking opportunities. You can find trails like the 'Gravel Path to Notstraat' loop or the 'Forest Singletrack' loop. These routes vary in distance and difficulty. For more information on specific routes, check out the MTB Trails in Kravaalbos guide.

What cycling routes are available in Kravaalbos?

Kravaalbos offers several cycling routes suitable for touring bicycles. Options include the 'Kouter Country Road' loop (around 15.2 km) or the 'St. Peter's Church - Mazenzele' loop (around 18.3 km). You can explore more routes in the Cycling in Kravaalbos guide.

Can I bring my dog on the trails in Kravaalbos?

The guide data does not explicitly state rules regarding dogs. However, as a natural area with varied paths, it is generally common for dogs to be allowed on leash in such forests. It is always recommended to check local signage or official park regulations upon arrival to confirm specific rules for pets.

Is there parking available near Kravaalbos trails?

The guide data does not specify exact parking locations. However, for natural areas like Kravaalbos, parking is typically available at main entrances or trailheads. It is advisable to check maps or local information for designated parking areas before your visit.

How can I reach Kravaalbos by public transport?

The guide data does not provide specific public transport information for Kravaalbos. For detailed travel planning, it is recommended to consult local public transport websites or apps for routes and schedules to the nearest towns or access points.

Are there any hidden natural gems in Kravaalbos?

While not explicitly called 'hidden gems,' the area where the Bluebells in the Forest bloom is described as 'a bit off the walking path but it is worth the effort to get here.' This spot offers a unique natural beauty, especially in spring, and encourages visitors to respect nature by not trampling the purple carpet of flowers.

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