Ideal starting point for cycling or walking tours.
Information boards at the Visitor Center 'De Klapekster' provide detailed information about the history and landscape of the Colony.

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VISITFLANDERS

August 31, 2021

Hiking

The visitor center is named after the gray shrike, a blackbird-sized winged resident of the colony. Housed in the former Grote Hoeve dairy, you can find out more about the history of the Wortel and Merksplas colony here.

Take a virtual flight over the colony. Learn more about the plants and animals that make their home here or find out where the shepherd is grazing his sheep.

Next to the visitor center you will find the Brasserie Kolonie 7, where you can strengthen yourself for your round or rest after the hike.

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Viviane

August 17, 2025

Hiking

The old vagrant farm now houses the De Klapekster Visitor Center, the ideal starting point for your exploration of Wortel-Kolonie. Here, Natuurpunt (Nature Center) tells the fascinating history of the Colony of Benevolence – now a UNESCO World Heritage site – and nature awakens with fens, stately avenues, and rare fauna and flora. Come visit for educational opportunities, guided walks, or simply to reflect on the silence and beauty of this unique place.

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Nearby routes

Best routes near De Klapekster Visitor Centre

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509

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#1.

Flirting with the border in the Valley of the Merkske

9.38km

02:21

10m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.7

(23)

227

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#2.

Bootjesven – View of large peat bogs. loop from Wortel-kolonie

4.50km

01:08

Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Easy

4.6

(33)

191

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#3.