The best walks and hikes around Mortsel
4.2
(163)
1,027
hikers
45
hikes
Hiking around Mortsel offers diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands and tranquil streams. The region features notable natural areas like the 'Klein Zwitserland' and Bessemgebied Nature Reserves. Historical forts, such as Fort 4, are integrated into many routes, providing cultural points of interest. These varied features create a compelling destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Best hiking trails in Mortsel
- The most popular hiking route is Koude Beek Trail, a 7.8 miles (12.5 km) trail that takes 3 hours 9 minutes to complete. This moderate route traverses the 'Klein Zwitserland' Nature Reserve, showcasing its diverse natural beauty.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Rest benches β Marked Veteran Trees WWI loop from Mortsel, an easy 3.0 miles (4.8 km) path. This route offers a blend of natural scenery and historical interest, passing by marked Veteran Trees from WWI.
- Local hikers also love the Hoeve Dieseghem β Marked Veteran Trees WWI loop from Mortsel, a 4.7 miles (7.7 km) trail leading through areas of historical significance and natural beauty, often completed in about 1 hour 56 minutes.
- Hiking around Mortsel is defined by dense woodlands, tranquil streams, and historical forts. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more challenging treks.
- The routes in Mortsel are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 150 reviews. More than 1000 hikers have used komoot to explore Mortsel's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
4.2
(30)
125
hikers
12.5km
03:09
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(14)
156
hikers
4.77km
01:13
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.4
(20)
96
hikers
7.65km
01:56
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(10)
53
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.4
(7)
40
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Machine gun bunker with thick concrete walls and emphasis on protection against shelling.
2
0
A park with plenty of space.
0
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If you are lucky you can see the Heron catching fish here
0
1
Quiet not far from civilization
0
0
Party location and traffic park at the same time
0
0
Country house (with mention of Bloemenhof on the facade plate at the parapet) from around 1901 in neo-traditional style with cottage elements designed by C. Janssens and built by order of Lots (building permit of 28 June 1901). Architect Huib Hoste once lived in this mansion. Joris Sawmill Ludovic Joris set up a sawmill on the Boechoutsesteenweg in 1905. The company, which employed five people, soon processed four to five trees per day. These trees were initially brought in from Wallonia by tractor or, when trees in the area were eligible for processing, dragged to the sawmill by six Brabant horses. Emile Joris, Ludovic's son and successor, decided to do things differently. He left for Congo, hoping to export exotic wood species. Emile was a man of his time and therefore tackled the export with vigour. He had a modern machine park and used airplanes to map the areas with good tree species. The heavy work was done by 350 Congolese workers who felled the trees and transported them by raft across the Congo River to Leopoldstad (Kinshasa). The wood arrived in Antwerp by ship, after which it was delivered to the sawmill in Hove. The entire journey, from the rainforest to Boechoutsesteenweg, took a total of about six weeks. This company disappeared in the early 1990s. A new residential complex, Hove Veld, was built on the grounds. Finds were made on the site that point to Keutegem, a village on the border of Hove and Boechout during the early Middle Ages.
4
0
Here you have a beautiful view of the Mill
5
1
short walk in an undeveloped piece of nature between Boechout and Borsbeek
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in Mortsel?
Mortsel offers a wide selection of hiking opportunities, with over 45 routes available. These range from easy strolls to more challenging treks, ensuring there's something for every hiker.
Are there easy hiking trails suitable for beginners or families in Mortsel?
Yes, Mortsel has many easy trails perfect for beginners or families. Nearly 30 routes are classified as easy. For example, the Rest benches β Marked Veteran Trees WWI loop from Mortsel is an easy 4.8 km path that combines natural scenery with historical interest.
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see while hiking in Mortsel?
Mortsel's hiking trails lead through diverse natural landscapes, including dense woodlands and tranquil streams. You can explore significant natural areas like the 'Klein Zwitserland' Nature Reserve, which the Koude Beek Trail traverses, and the Bessemgebied Nature Reserve.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore on Mortsel's hiking routes?
Absolutely. Mortsel seamlessly integrates cultural exploration with its natural beauty. Many routes include historical forts, such as Fort 4. You can also find trails like the Hoeve Dieseghem β Marked Veteran Trees WWI loop from Mortsel, which passes by marked Veteran Trees from WWI, offering a blend of history and nature.
Are there circular hiking routes in Mortsel?
Yes, Mortsel features several well-marked circular loops. Many trails are designed as loops, making them convenient for hikers. Examples include the Top view of the Inner Fort β Marked Veteran Trees WWI loop from Mortsel and the Boardwalk Fort Borsbeek β Pond at Fort III Borsbeek loop from Mortsel.
What do other hikers say about the trails in Mortsel?
The hiking routes in Mortsel are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.2 stars from over 150 reviews. Hikers often praise the diverse terrain, the blend of natural beauty with historical elements, and the well-maintained paths.
Are there any specific points of interest or attractions near the hiking trails?
Beyond the trails themselves, Mortsel's surroundings offer interesting points of interest. For nature enthusiasts, there are several birdwatching hides, such as the Birdwatching hide at Hobokense Polder or the Birdwatching Hut Fortgracht, which can be found nearby.
What is the best time of year to go hiking in Mortsel?
Mortsel offers enjoyable hiking experiences throughout the year. The dense woodlands provide shade in summer, while the natural reserves like 'Klein Zwitserland' are beautiful in spring and autumn with changing foliage. Even in winter, the trails can offer serene, crisp walks.
Are there any challenging hikes in Mortsel for experienced hikers?
While many trails are easy or moderate, Mortsel does offer a few more challenging options for experienced hikers. There are 2 routes classified as difficult, providing a greater test of endurance and skill amidst the region's varied terrain.
Can I find trails that offer scenic viewpoints in Mortsel?
Yes, for those seeking panoramic views, trails like the 'Hilltop Vista Trail' (mentioned in regional research) provide breathtaking vistas from elevated positions, allowing you to appreciate Mortsel's diverse landscapes from above.
Is Mortsel a good destination for nature photography while hiking?
Mortsel's diverse natural features, including dense woodlands, tranquil streams like the Koude Beek, and the unique environment of the 'Klein Zwitserland' Nature Reserve, make it an excellent location for nature photography. The historical elements, such as the forts and Veteran Trees, also add interesting subjects.
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