Attractions and Places To See in Abdij Van Westmalle - Top 20

The region offers several beautiful natural areas. You can visit the Molenbos Information Board, which marks a 175-hectare nature reserve with forests and peaceful trails. Another highlight is the Hegte Heyde Nature Reserve, known for its heathland landscape, grassland, and woodland, housing specific plants rare in the Kempen region. For walking, consider the 8 km Trappistenpad starting from the abbey's driveway, or explore the scenic abbey walks that offer insights into the abbey's life.

Beyond the abbey itself, you can visit the Sint-Bernardus Chapel, founded in 1947 to commemorate the crews of two British bombers that crashed nearby during World War II. Another significant site is the Drieboomkensberg Pilgrimage Site, located on the highest peak of undulating inland dunes, offering a place for relaxation in the forest. The former Sanatorium Lizzie Marsily also holds historical significance, dating back to 1913.

Yes, many of the natural areas and sites are suitable for families. The Molenbos Information Board and Hegte Heyde Nature Reserve offer easy walking paths for all ages. The Drieboomkensberg Pilgrimage Site is also considered family-friendly, providing a relaxing forest environment. Exploring the scenic abbey walks can be an engaging activity for families, with QR codes offering stories about the abbey's life.

While the abbey and brewery are generally not open for tours, you can savor the renowned Westmalle Trappist beers (Dubbel, Tripel, and Extra) and enjoy the abbey's artisanal cheese and cheese croquettes at Café Trappisten, located near the abbey. A limited quantity of the monks' artisanal cheese is also sold directly at the abbey gate, offering a unique opportunity to purchase a product directly from the source.

The Abdij Van Westmalle area is excellent for outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the 'Trappist Route Westmalle' which is nearly 9 km long. For cycling enthusiasts, a longer 44 km Trappistenroute is available. There are also several running trails, such as the 'Drieboomkensberg – Rolling Forest Trail loop'. You can find more details and routes in the dedicated guides for Hiking in Abdij Van Westmalle, Cycling in Abdij Van Westmalle, and Running Trails in Abdij Van Westmalle.

The Abdij Van Westmalle area can be enjoyed year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and cycling through the natural reserves and along the abbey. Summer is ideal for enjoying the outdoor terraces at Café Trappisten. Even in winter, the peaceful forest trails and cultural sites provide a serene experience.

Yes, approximately 11.6 km from the abbey, you can find Kasteel Borrekens in Vorselaar. This captivating castle offers historical beauty surrounded by picturesque gardens, making for a pleasant excursion from Abdij Van Westmalle.

In areas like the Hegte Heyde Nature Reserve, the diverse habitats support various species. The coniferous forests and open spaces are home to woodland butterflies like the speckled wood. Dead wood in the forest provides shelter for insects, fungi, and slow worms. While specific sightings vary, the tranquil environment is conducive to observing local flora and fauna.

Visitors particularly appreciate the blend of serene natural beauty and the unique cultural experience centered around the Trappist Abbey. The peaceful walking routes, the opportunity to taste the famous Trappist beers and cheese at Café Trappisten, and the historical significance of sites like the Sint-Bernardus Chapel are frequently highlighted. The overall tranquility and connection to a rich heritage are key draws.

While specific public transport details are best checked with local providers, the area is accessible. Many visitors combine their trip with cycling or walking routes that connect various points of interest, suggesting local transport options or a combination with personal vehicles are common ways to reach the attractions.

Absolutely. For hikers seeking a challenge, the 'Vraagheide Forest Trails – Kooldries Old Clay Pit Pond loop' is a difficult 20 km route. Cyclists can tackle longer routes like the 'St. Anthony's Chapel, Salphen – Zoersel Gravel Section loop', which spans nearly 38 km. These routes offer more extensive exploration of the region's diverse landscapes. More options can be found in the Hiking and Cycling guides.