4.4
(377)
2,157
hikers
57
hikes
Hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas traverse a diverse landscape spanning over 500 hectares, characterized by a mix of open and closed areas, agricultural lands, forests, and natural spaces. The terrain primarily consists of wide sand paths, offering varied walking experiences. Hikers encounter heathlands, fens, and coniferous forests, with ongoing efforts to restore natural habitats and introduce more deciduous trees. The area also features characteristic straight drives lined with monumental trees and large clay pits.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
4.4
(31)
152
hikers
5.04km
01:16
10m
10m
Explore the historic 'colonies of benevolence' on this moderate 3.1-mile hike in Merksplas-Kolonie, featuring varied terrain and historical
4.6
(60)
299
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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4.5
(19)
155
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.6
(28)
173
hikers
5.04km
01:17
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(12)
55
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Wortel Cemetery Visit this silent witness to Wortel Colony's vagrant past. Vagrants were given a number upon arrival at the Colony. Lead plaques often bear only a number, not a name, on the white crosses of the vagrant cemetery.
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if you are in the area super interesting
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It's always good to be confronted with our history...
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There are 227 anonymous white crosses in this cemetery. Most of them only have a number. A few crosses have a name. In the period 1873-2000, more than 6000 people were given a final resting place in the three cemeteries. Quite a touching place.
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History: the Colonies in Wortel and Merksplas were reorganised from 1870 onwards. Wortel became an unfree colony and got a new large farm and communal main buildings (the dormitories, dining rooms, hospital, etc.). A completely new complex was also built in Merksplas, including a new farm: the Grote Hoeve. It consisted of sixteen buildings that all functioned together as a model farm. This farm replaced another, smaller farm from 1825 that stood on the same site. Around 1890, no fewer than 95 pigs lived in the pigsty of Merksplas-Kolonie. A pigsty of that size was very exceptional at the time. Small farmers usually had only one pig, large farmers at most ten. In 1910, the province of Antwerp had 28,524 farms. One farm immediately caught the eye. Merksplas-Kolonie was the only one in the region with more than 100 hectares of agricultural land.
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In this open hay barn you can organize a party or other event
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A monument erected for Colonel J.P Harper.
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Based on komoot data, there are over 50 hiking trails in Kolonie Merksplas, catering to various preferences and skill levels. A significant portion, 38 routes, are classified as easy, making the area very accessible.
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas offers many easy trails suitable for beginners. For a gentle introduction to the area's history and nature, consider the Grote Hoeve – Colony 7 Visitor Center loop from Kolonie Merksplas, which is an easy 5 km route.
Kolonie Merksplas features a diverse 'compartments landscape' with a mix of open and closed areas, agricultural lands, forests, and natural spaces. You'll encounter heathlands, fens like 'Het Biesven', coniferous forests, and characteristic straight drives lined with monumental trees. There are also large clay pits, some with bird hides.
Yes, many routes in Kolonie Merksplas are circular. For example, the Colony - Eastern Rampart – Open hay barns Kolonie 5-7 loop from Kolonie Merksplas is a moderate 11.1 km circular trail that takes you through varied landscapes and past historical structures.
Kolonie Merksplas is rich in history. Along the trails, you can discover monumental buildings from its past as a 'colony of benevolence'. Notable sites include the Landlopers Chapel Merksplas-Kolonie, the Colony - Eastern Rampart, and the Grote Hoeve. The Benevolence in Merksplas Colony Trail specifically leads past many historical buildings and sites.
Absolutely. The natural area includes heathlands, with restoration efforts in areas like 'De Blakheide'. You can find scenic fens such as 'Het Biesven' and large clay pits. The Pond in the Blakheide – Het Blak bird hide loop from Kolonie Merksplas takes you through heathlands and past a bird hide at a large clay pit, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching.
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas is well-suited for family hikes, especially given the prevalence of easy trails and wide sand paths. The varied landscape and historical elements can keep children engaged. The 'Weldadigheidspad' (Charity Path) is specifically designed to be wheelchair and stroller-friendly, making it a great option for families with young children.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 260 reviews. Reviewers often praise the varied terrain, the combination of natural beauty with historical significance, and the well-maintained wide sand paths that make for enjoyable walking experiences.
Yes, for refreshments after your hike, you can visit the 'Kolonie 7' brasserie, which is located within the area. The Pond in the Blakheide – Open hay barns Kolonie 5-7 loop from Kolonie Merksplas passes by the Kolonie 5-7 area, where you can find these facilities.
Kolonie Merksplas offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. Spring brings blooming nature, summer allows for long days exploring the diverse landscapes, and autumn showcases beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the wide paths and varied scenery provide a unique charm, though some areas might be damp.
Yes, Kolonie Merksplas is well-equipped with parking facilities for visitors. The visitor center, Bezoekerscentrum Kolonie 5-7, is a good starting point and typically has ample parking available, providing easy access to many of the hiking routes.
While the region research mentions the area is accessible, specific public transport routes are not detailed. It is advisable to check local public transport schedules and connections to Merksplas-Kolonie for the most up-to-date information on reaching the hiking trails without a car.


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