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Merksplas

Top 13 Huts and Cabins around Merksplas

Best huts around Merksplas are primarily observation hides and shelters, offering opportunities to connect with nature in this Belgian municipality. The region, part of the province of Antwerp, features diverse natural landscapes including forests, fens, and former industrial areas now reclaimed by nature. These locations provide tranquil settings for wildlife observation and outdoor activities. Merksplas is known for its peaceful environment and accessibility to various walking and cycling routes.

Best huts around Merksplas

  • The most popular huts is Het Blak…

Last updated: June 30, 2026

Het Blak bird hide

Highlight • Lake

It's always fun to enjoy life happening in your field of vision on the water, hidden behind a viewing wall.

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De Pomp/Poelberg

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Scots pines were planted on the former heathland, which are now gradually making way for native trees and shrubs such as oak, birch, rowan, sporke wood, etc. The rest of …

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Eksterheide observation hide

Highlight • Mountain Hut

Ideal location to become one with what is happening in your field of view. Just enjoy how the fauna and flora are restored in this former strip of the old airport.

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Birdwatching hide at the boardwalk

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Viewpoint that you reach via a boardwalk and where you can see over the fens with the many reeds where the birds like to hide.

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A moment for yourself when you take a seat behind the viewing wall.
Just enjoy the scene that is playing in front of you.
Each season has its own performance in a larger play.

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Tips from the Community

Jeff S
March 26, 2026, Kijkhut Eksterheide

Step away from sight for a moment, and who knows where the eye will turn...

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Be sure to bring binoculars, then you can search for and spot the animals much better.

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Be sure to bring binoculars so you can observe the birds' antics much better.

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This small birdwatching hut is worth a visit

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A large shelter, located at the entry point of the De Pomp - Poelberg nature reserve, offers protection in all weather conditions. The two large picnic tables invite you to stop here for a moment. Please note that two short hiking loops start here. The 1.9 km Poelberg path and 3.9 km Galloway path introduce you to the scars from a distant industrial past of the brick industry. There is limited unpaved parking on the street side.

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In De Pomp-Poelberg you can clearly see the traces of an industrial past. Over the course of the 20th century, almost the entire landscape was literally overhauled for the brick industry. The two large clay pits filled with water still bear witness to the hard work that was done here. The 1.9 km 'Poelbergpad' walking loop or the 3.7 km Galloway path invite you to discover the nature reserve.

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MarcVD
October 29, 2023, Kijkhut Eksterheide

Nature takes its place again. This used to be a landing strip for sports planes.

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Hideaways are often made of natural materials to blend in with the environment. For hikers, they offer a unique opportunity to see wildlife up close without minimizing them. They also provide protection from the elements and insects. Viewing huts contribute to nature education and awareness and offer hikers an enriching experience in nature.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of huts can I find around Merksplas?

Merksplas offers a variety of accommodations, primarily holiday homes, cottages, and chalets, designed for tranquil escapes. These range from cozy nature houses for couples or small families to larger properties suitable for groups. Many are nestled within natural settings like forests or near lakes, emphasizing relaxation and outdoor activities.

Are there specific huts for wildlife observation?

Yes, Merksplas is known for its bird hides and observation huts. For instance, Het Blak bird hide provides a hidden viewing wall to observe life on the water. Another excellent spot is the Eksterheide observation hide, located in a forest and nature reserve, ideal for observing local fauna and flora.

What natural features can I expect to see near the huts?

The huts are often situated amidst diverse natural landscapes, including forests, fens, and lakes. For example, the Birdwatching hide at the boardwalk offers views over fens with reeds, where birds often hide. Areas like De Pomp/Poelberg feature lakes and restored heathland, providing opportunities to see various plant and bird species.

Are there family-friendly options for huts in Merksplas?

Many huts are designed to be family-friendly. For example, Nature House 63692 is perfect for two adults and two children, offering a comfortable stay with a private terrace. Several observation hides, such as Het Blak bird hide and Eksterheide observation hide, are also categorized as family-friendly, providing engaging experiences for all ages.

Can I find huts that accommodate larger groups or family reunions?

Yes, for larger groups, Nature House 74122 can accommodate up to 12 people across five mobile homes within a private domain. It offers a communal kitchen, living room, private jacuzzi, and sauna, making it ideal for family reunions or group holidays.

Are there dog-friendly huts available in Merksplas?

Yes, Merksplas offers specialized accommodations like chalets designed for guests with dogs. These often include features such as fully fenced gardens, ensuring a relaxing stay for both pets and their owners. Cottage 9, Vakantiehuis Merksplas, is also pet-friendly.

What outdoor activities can I do near these huts?

The area around Merksplas offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities. You can enjoy walking, cycling, and mountain biking. Nearby routes include the 'Poelbergpad' and 'Galloway path' at De Pomp/Poelberg. For more options, explore the hiking trails around Merksplas, cycling routes, or running trails.

Are there any historical sites or points of interest near the huts?

Yes, the region has a rich history. The Erfgoedsite Merksplas Kolonie, a potential World Heritage site with protected monuments and hiking trails, is easily accessible from many accommodations. Additionally, areas like De Pomp/Poelberg clearly show traces of an industrial past, with former clay pits now transformed into natural areas.

When is the best time to visit the huts in Merksplas for nature observation?

The natural areas around Merksplas offer unique experiences in every season. Spring and autumn are particularly good for birdwatching as migratory birds pass through. Summer provides lush greenery and warmer weather for outdoor activities, while winter can offer a serene, quiet escape. Each season presents its own 'comedy' of nature, as noted by visitors to the bird hides.

Do any of the huts offer unique amenities like saunas or jacuzzis?

Yes, some accommodations provide luxurious amenities. Nature House 38172 features a bathroom complete with a sauna. For larger groups, Nature House 74122 includes a private jacuzzi and sauna as complimentary amenities, enhancing the relaxation experience.

Are there facilities like picnic areas or shelters near the observation huts?

Yes, at De Pomp/Poelberg, there is a large shelter located at the entry point of the nature reserve, offering protection in all weather conditions. It also features two large picnic tables, inviting visitors to stop and rest before or after exploring the walking loops.

What do visitors enjoy most about the huts and natural areas in Merksplas?

Visitors particularly enjoy the tranquility and the opportunity to connect with nature. Many appreciate the chance to observe wildlife up close from the various hides, finding it a peaceful and enriching experience. The integration of these structures into nature reserves, blending with the environment, also contributes to a unique and immersive outdoor experience.

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