Attractions and Places To See around Boortmeerbeek - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Boortmeerbeek include a variety of historical landmarks, natural areas, and cultural sites. Located in the Belgian province of Flemish Brabant, the municipality features the Dijle River and several canals, which are central to its landscape. The region offers opportunities to explore historical buildings, significant natural reserves, and cycling routes. Boortmeerbeek provides a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Best attractions and places to see around Boortmeerbeek
- The most popular attractions is Cycling Highway Leuven-Mechelen Along the Leuven-Dijle Canal, a cycle way that runs largely along the Leuven-Dijle canal. This route offers quiet cycling next to the canal, passing old locks.
- Another must-see spot is Leuven–Dijle Canal, a river that connects Leuven with the Dyle. Visitors can expect a beautifully maintained towpath that forms a car-free connection between Mechelen and Leuven.
- Visitors also love Mechelen, a settlement located on the Dijle river. This city is known for its Flemish architecture and a belfry that rings a melody every quarter of an hour.
- Boortmeerbeek is known for its historical landmarks, natural features, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from castles and churches to nature reserves and waterways.
- The attractions around Boortmeerbeek are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 530 upvotes and 7 photos shared across 28 highlights.
Last updated: October 10, 2026
Cycling Highway Leuven-Mechelen Along the Leuven-Dijle Canal
Highlight • Cycleway
The left bank is used between Leuven and Boortmeerbeek. At the Pontstraat in Boortmeerbeek, the route crosses and then uses the right bank to Mechelen.
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Leuven–Dijle Canal
Highlight • River
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Damiaan Bridge and Father Damien Statue
Highlight • Bridge
It is an interesting place on your walk. Several hiking nodes come together here. Ideal opportunity to change your route and make the crossing.
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Mechelen
Highlight • Settlement
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St. Rumbold's Cathedral, Mechelen
Highlight • Religious Site
A highlight of the city in the truest sense of the word: The 97 meter high St. Rombouts Tower. The landmark of Mechelen was never completed. Today a modern skywalk adorns the tower, from which carillon concerts can be heard every week.
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Popular around Boortmeerbeek
Tips from the Community
St. Rombouts is a magnificent cathedral with a Christ on the Cross by Anton van Dyck.
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Class cycle path along the canal.
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The view after the climb is simply great
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Cycling along the canal is pleasant, near Mechelen you have kayakers and there is always something to do.
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Here you can also take a break on the benches...
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Ann Van Dessel (born December 26, 1961) from Mortsel is a poet and writing instructor. Her poetry debut, "Een kei in duren" (A Rock in Duration), was published in 2012. This was followed by "Toverstroming" (Magic Flood) in 2017, and "Als de lucht valt" (As the Sky Falls) in 2021. At the end of May 2011, she was appointed Haacht's first village poet. During her tenure in that role, she wrote this poem, "van grenzen gezwijt" (Silence of Borders), for the ceremonial inauguration of the new Damien Bridge (in 2012). She also wrote three poems commissioned by Natuurpunt for Haacht's three nature reserves. And that's far from all. Here you can read more about Ann's writings and work during her time as Haacht's village poet (including the work featured here): https://annvandessel.com/dorpsdichter-haacht And here you can learn all about Ann and her publications: https://annvandessel.com/
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The 2 meter high wooden statue of father Damiaan was placed on August 22, 2013 on the west side of the Damiaan bridge and was donated by Lizette Cresens from Haacht. The statue was made by an artist from Wolfsdonk. Source: https://www.tremelo.be/product/2172/15-standbeeld-damiaan-damiaanbrug The cycle and footbridge itself was put into use in 2012 and is located close to the Damiaan museum in Ninde (at the end of the road). The two Dijle dikes that are connected by it are called Pater Damiaandijk (on the side of Ninde) and Schipstrekkersdijk (the side of Haacht). Near the bridge, the Grote Laak flows into the Dijle. That's a river that splits off from the Demer near Aarschot and is also known as the Laak and formerly the Meetshovense Laak.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Boortmeerbeek?
The region offers several natural highlights. You can enjoy the scenic Leuven–Dijle Canal, which features a beautifully maintained towpath. The Mispeldonk Nature Reserve, located along the Dijle River, is known for its wet grasslands, diverse flora and fauna, and role as a natural flood buffer. Additionally, the Schiplakenbos provides a forested area for exploration.
Are there good cycling routes in the Boortmeerbeek area?
Yes, Boortmeerbeek is well-suited for cycling. A popular option is the Cycling Highway Leuven-Mechelen Along the Leuven-Dijle Canal, which offers quiet cycling next to the canal, passing old locks. The towpath along the Leuven–Dijle Canal also provides a car-free connection between Mechelen and Leuven. For more options, you can find various routes in the Gravel biking around Boortmeerbeek guide.
What historical sites can I visit in Boortmeerbeek?
Boortmeerbeek has a rich history. Notable sites include the Oud Gemeentehuis Boortmeerbeek (Old Town Hall), which holds significance from World War I. The Station Boortmeerbeek also played a role during the war. You can also find several monuments commemorating historical events, such as the Bevrijdingsmonument (Liberation Monument), Monument Transport XX, and the Oorlogsmonument Slag van Schiplaken (War Monument Battle of Schiplaken).
Are there any cultural attractions or unique points of interest?
Beyond historical sites, Boortmeerbeek offers cultural spots like the Cultuurhuis Oude Pastorie (Old Rectory Cultural House). The Watermolen van Servaes (Servaes Watermill) is a cultural heritage building. You might also discover Street Art scattered throughout the town, with an 'Animalinas walking route' designed to explore these masterpieces.
What kind of running trails are available near Boortmeerbeek?
There are several running trails for different preferences. You can find routes like the 'Ringgracht loop from Schiplaken' or the 'View of the Dijle River loop from Boortmeerbeek', which offer moderate challenges. For longer runs, the 'Leuven–Dijle Canal loop from Brouwerij Haacht' is a good option. Explore more in the Running Trails around Boortmeerbeek guide.
Are there family-friendly attractions around Boortmeerbeek?
Many attractions in the area are suitable for families. The Cycling Highway Leuven-Mechelen Along the Leuven-Dijle Canal and the Leuven–Dijle Canal towpath are great for family bike rides or walks. The nearby city of Mechelen is also known for being child-friendly, with its historic architecture and the iconic St. Rumbold's Cathedral tower offering panoramic views.
Can I find mountain biking trails near Boortmeerbeek?
Yes, there are mountain biking opportunities. Trails like the 'Jaargetijdenlaan Waterway – MTB Trail Through the Forest loop from Hever' offer an easy ride, while others such as the 'Eikenbos Trail – Singletrack trails in Plantsoenbos loop from Boortmeerbeek' provide a moderate challenge. For a comprehensive list, check the MTB Trails around Boortmeerbeek guide.
What is the Pater Damiaan Bridge and where is it located?
The Pater Damiaan Bridge is a steel girder bridge designed for pedestrians and cyclists. It spans the Dijle River and is situated on the border of the municipalities of Haacht and Tremelo, making it a scenic spot for walks and bike rides.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Boortmeerbeek?
Visitors particularly appreciate the quiet and beautiful cycling experiences along the canals, often passing charming old locks. The well-maintained towpaths, like those along the Leuven–Dijle Canal, are highly valued for providing car-free connections and scenic views. The blend of natural beauty and historical elements also contributes to a rewarding experience.
Are there any castles or notable buildings in the area?
Yes, the prominent Kasteel van Schiplaken is located within the Schiplakenbos. While the Parochiekerk Sint-Antonius Abt and H. Familie are churches with historical significance, the Oud Gemeentehuis Boortmeerbeek also stands out as a historical building impacted during World War I.
Is the nearby city of Mechelen worth visiting?
Absolutely. Mechelen is a charming city known for its magnificent Flemish architecture, the Dijle River flowing through it, and its iconic belfry that chimes a melody every quarter of an hour. The city is easily explored on foot or by bike and features the impressive St. Rumbold's Cathedral with its 97-meter-high tower offering extensive views.
Are there any specific points of interest related to waterways in Boortmeerbeek?
Beyond the Dijle River and the Leuven-Dijle Canal, you can find the Sluis van Boortmeerbeek (Lock of Boortmeerbeek), which is an interesting point of interest related to the local waterways and their historical function.
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Most popular attractions around Boortmeerbeek
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