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The Waterschei spoil heap is one of the most striking remnants of coal mining in Belgian Limburg, located in the Waterschei district of Genk. The spoil heap originated as a waste heap from coal mining – during coal mining, rock material that did not contain usable coal was brought to the surface and piled up into an artificial hill. These centuries-old spoil heaps have since become visible landmarks in the landscape and are now deeply rooted in the region's culture and nature. The former mining area around Waterschei was active between 1924 and 1987 and played a significant role in the economic development of the Kempen coal basin. After the mines closed, the area lost its industrial function, but the spoil heaps remained as immense silent witnesses to that mining past. In 1999, the Waterschei spoil heaps were officially designated a protected landscape, emphasizing the value of these structures, not only historically but also ecologically. Today, the slag heaps are part of Thor Park, a redeveloped nature recreation and heritage area of approximately 30 hectares where industrial history and natural experiences converge. Hiking trails have been laid out around the slag heaps, often marked with small stacked stones—symbolic "cairns"—that invite visitors to climb the slopes and leave their own markings. At the top of the slag heap, you're rewarded with a panoramic view of the former mining site, forest, heathland, and the surrounding landscape. The Waterschei slag heap combines history, nature, and recreation. The hill is not only a monument to the mining industry but also a place where vegetation and biodiversity have developed on the rugged stone. As such, the slag heap offers a fascinating example of how an industrial artifact can transform into an ecologically and recreationally valuable landscape.

At 209 meters above sea level, the Kattenroth is one of the highest points in the Voer region. From the summit, you have a panoramic view of the rolling Limburg hills, the surrounding meadows, forest edges, and picturesque villages such as Sint-Martens-Voeren and Ulvend. The hill is popular with hikers and nature lovers because the area offers a combination of tranquility and beautiful vistas. Along the paths, you'll encounter wooded banks, old field paths, and the occasional field cross, adding to the charm of this landscape. The Kattenroth is not only a place for views and relaxation but also a landmark in the Voeren landscape.

Old unpaved footpaths are still common in the agricultural area between Halen and Loksbergen. The road layout has changed relatively little between the 17th century and the present. East of these roads lies the Betserbaan, which played a key role in the Battle of Halen. Of interest is this Kanoniersstraat, which is unpaved for its entire length between the Betserbaan and the Kauwplasstraat (1.6 km) and has a cart track as its base. Where this road crosses the summit of the Mettenberg, it cuts into the flanks, creating a sunken lane with wooded banks on the verge. These wooded banks belong to the category of "indigenous trees and shrubs," with the most common species being robinia, oak, and hawthorn. Historically, the Kanoniersstraat was the old connecting road between Halen and Leuven across the interfluve of the Ketelbeek and IJzerenbeek (demonstrable by a 17th-century tithe map). It has since lost its role as a connecting road. Kanoniersstraat has now been given a purely local role, allowing it to retain its authentic appearance as an old road. Inventory of Immovable Heritage: Sunken Roads, https://id.erfgoed.net/erfgoedobjecten/300954

The Hakkenberg is one of the higher points in the Limburg hills, at an altitude of 252 meters. From here, you have a beautiful view of the surrounding rolling fields, forests, and villages that reflect the character of South Limburg.

The highest point of Kattenrothberg is 209 meters. It lies between the Netherlands (Noorbeek) and Belgium (Sint-Maartens Voeren). Info: https://www.peakbagger.com/peak.aspx?pid=-138260

nice view, quiet place

A sunken road is a road that is so deeply worn that it lies between two slopes. It is the result of centuries of use and erosion. The most beautiful sunken roads can be found especially in hilly areas with a subsoil that easily forms steep walls, such as in Haspengouw and Hageland.

A shady path...