4.4
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Bus station hiking trails in Natuurreservaat Vallei Van De Zwarte Beek - Beringen traverse a diverse landscape characterized by marshy, peaty brook valleys, dry sand dunes, and expansive heathlands. The region features the Zwarte Beek, which flows through the valley, and includes forests, fens, and grasslands. Former mining landscapes with slag heaps (terrils) offer elevated viewpoints, while boardwalks provide access over wetter, peaty sections.
Last updated: May 29, 2026
3.0
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14
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
7
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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8
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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The Valley of the Black River in Limburg is one of the largest and most valuable nature reserves in Flanders (over 1300 ha), managed by Natuurpunt and ANB. It offers a unique variety of marshy river valleys, heathland, and dunes, with Bezoekerscentrum De Watersnip in Beringen as the central starting point for walks. A pleasant cycle path winds through it.
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Beautiful area to train on altitude meters, TOP Location!
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This bench is not to be missed and ideal for a bite to eat or a drink
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Beringen mine spoil heap is a nature reserve on the territory of Koersel (part of Beringen) and is located on Terril number 2 of the former Beringen coal mine. Between 1941 and 1949, 11,600,000 m³ of stone was dumped here. Beringen mine spoil heap is owned by the Agency for Nature and Forests. The mine was closed in 1989 and the spoil heap was cleaned up in 1995. Herbs were sown and the whole was made accessible to the public. At a height of 125 m, 100 m above the surroundings, there is a plateau from which one has a view of the surroundings. The birds include the skylark, tree pipit, meadow pipit and lapwing. The queen page and the blue-winged grasshopper are some of the rare insects that occur in the area.
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Beringen mine spoil heap is a nature reserve on the territory of Koersel (part of Beringen) and is located on Terril number 2 of the former Beringen coal mine. Between 1941 and 1949, 11,600,000 m³ of stone was dumped here. Beringen mine spoil heap is owned by the Agency for Nature and Forests. The mine was closed in 1989 and the spoil heap was cleaned up in 1995. Herbs were sown and the whole was made accessible to the public. At a height of 125 m, 100 m above the surroundings, there is a plateau from which one has a view of the surroundings. The birds include the skylark, tree pipit, meadow pipit and lapwing. The queen page and the blue-winged grasshopper are some of the rare insects that occur in the area.
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From this sturdy bench you have a beautiful view of the slag heap. Moreover, you can enjoy the beautiful nature around the bench. Enjoy it.
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A second starting point for the walks in this area. With a parking lot. On the information board you get the necessary information about the walks.
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There are over 600 hiking routes accessible from bus stations in Natuurreservaat Vallei Van De Zwarte Beek - Beringen, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. The majority are easy to moderate, making the area highly accessible for many hikers.
The trails offer a remarkably diverse landscape, transitioning from marshy, peaty brook valleys to dry sand dunes and heathlands. You'll encounter forests, tranquil fens, extensive grasslands, and meadows. Many routes feature 'plankenpaden' or boardwalks, providing a unique experience over the wetter, peaty sections of the reserve.
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The Visitor Center De Watersnip – Forest walking trail loop from Vallei van de Zwarte Beek (Beringen) is a moderate route that starts near the visitor center, which itself has a playground and splash pond for children. The Prikkelpad, mentioned in regional research, is also designed to be accessible for families with strollers and wheelchair users, featuring sensory elements.
Many trails in Natuurreservaat Vallei Van De Zwarte Beek - Beringen are dog-friendly, but it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash to protect the diverse wildlife and sensitive ecosystems. Please check local signage for specific restrictions in certain areas of the nature reserve.
The area is rich in natural beauty. You can explore the central Zwarte Beek Valley Nature Reserve itself, walk along the unique Boardwalk in the Valley of the Zwarte Beek, or discover the Oude Beekvallei Boardwalk. The former mining landscapes also feature slag heaps (terrils) that provide panoramic views, such as those seen on the Bench With View of the Terril – Beringen Coal Mine (be-MINE) loop from Beringen.
Yes, many of the trails are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. Examples include the Hiking loop from Vallei van de Zwarte Beek (Beringen) and the Pond of the Kleine Beek – Kleine Beek Pond loop from Vallei van de Zwarte Beek (Beringen), both offering diverse scenery.
The diverse ecosystems of the reserve make it appealing year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, summer offers lush greenery, and autumn showcases vibrant colors. Even in winter, the unique landscapes, especially the boardwalks over marshy areas, offer a serene experience. The Visitor Center De Watersnip is a good starting point for information on seasonal conditions.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from thousands of reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, from marshy valleys to dry dunes, the well-maintained boardwalks, and the rich biodiversity, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and birdwatching.
Yes, the region seamlessly connects to former industrial sites. The Open Wetland Area – Heusden-Zolder Mining Heap loop from Koersel Spechtenstraat and the Bench With View of the Terril – Beringen Coal Mine (be-MINE) loop from Beringen are excellent examples that incorporate the unique slag heaps (terrils) into the hiking experience, offering panoramic views and a historical dimension.
For more detailed information about the Natuurreservaat Vallei Van De Zwarte Beek, you can visit the official tourism websites. Visit Limburg (Dutch) and Visit Limburg (English) provide comprehensive details about the area, its features, and visitor facilities.


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