フランダースの山小屋＆キャビン・トップ20

In the vast De Kevie nature reserve, located southeast of Tongeren, several hiking trails follow the picturesque Jeker valley, a meandering river that gives the landscape its character. During one of these walks, you'll encounter not only nature and culture but also atmospheric elements that enhance the experience of the area. One of the attractions along this route is a branch hut combined with a wooden bridge over the Oude Jeker river. Hikers often mention this spot as a beautiful and peaceful place to pause and take in the surroundings. The wooden bridge over the Oude Jeker is part of the walking paths that follow the banks of the river and connects various sections of the path. The bridge's simple construction blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings, creating a harmonious transition from one part of the landscape to the next. Next to the bridge, you'll find a branch hut—a hut constructed from natural materials like branches and wood—that serves as a place of rest and observation. Such huts are often accessible, creative structures where hikers can pause for a break, shelter from the weather, or observe birds and other animals without making too much of an impression on nature. They emphasize the feeling of experiencing nature and connect with the ecological character of De Kevie. The Oude Jeker River itself is a branch of the river on the southern border of the reserve and plays a significant role in the area's ecological balance. Along the banks of this waterway, nature restoration projects have restored the original meanders of the river, benefiting biodiversity and making the landscape visually appealing. Along with other elements such as boardwalks, historic mills, viewpoints, and artwork, the branch hut with its wooden bridge forms an inviting part of the hiking experience in De Kevie—a place where nature, tranquility, and people meet in the Haspengouw landscape.

Patience and calm are instructive...

De Loteling is nestled in the wooded Zoersel district and offers an oasis of peace and relaxation for those seeking it. Be aware that it can get quite busy here.

Along the picturesque avenue leading to Hex Castle, four teardrop-shaped tree tents hang high among the tall trees, artistic sleeping accommodations designed by Dré Wapenaar. These temporary sculptures balance between architecture and sculpture, inviting guests to spend the night or simply take shelter under the trees. A unique experience in the heart of the Haspengouw landscape, where nature and creativity converge!

In October 2021, an additional component of the "Experience-filled Kevie" project was opened. The bend in Neremweg, where the equipment was installed, was a life-threatening situation. Children could unknowingly wander across the old bridge and end up in that dangerous bend. Instead of creating all sorts of prohibition signs and other hazards, a playful approach was chosen, using play equipment to guide the children past a climbing frame, stilts, stepping stones, a round branch hut, and a willow tunnel to the new bridge.

Here you'll go to the birdwatching hut on the water, which is located a few meters further out on the lake. In normal, wet conditions, you'll also walk a fair distance above the lake, which is surrounded on both sides by a boardwalk with poles. From the hut itself, you can see almost the entire lake, and it usually doesn't take long for waterfowl like cormorants to fly past your lens. On both sides of the path, you can admire the water lilies, depending on the season, of course.

More information about Het Vinne can be found at www.vlaamsbrabant.be/nl/vrije-tijd-en-toerisme/provinciedomein-het-vinne-zoutleeuw

Beautiful view over the pond with the reed beds in front