トゥルンハウトの天然記念物・トップ20

The Bels Broek en Heide is a sub-area of the Grote Netewoud in the municipalities of Geel and Meerhout. It is located on the right bank of the Grote Nete River, here called the Meerhoutse Nete, and consists of drifting dunes, swamp forests, and heathland. The Bels Broek en Heide is located in a habitat directive area. It is named after the nearby town of Bel. (Wikipedia)

Many captivating stories have been written about this well (not just any well). The first probably dates back to 1571, when Lieske Coolbonders committed suicide by drowning herself in the well while the devil himself was pursuing her. Lieske was the illegitimate daughter of Katrien Coolbonders, who was raped by a Spanish nobleman. The nobleman was murdered by Katrien's husband. The body was first dumped in the Devil's Well. Later, it was buried somewhere nearby. (Efkesweg.be)

Viewed from above, with a little imagination, the Kempen Ridge's relief can be seen as if a giant were sleeping beneath the landscape. Because of the vegetation on the sand dunes, they no longer move, and the giant's slumber is not disturbed. In 2018, Gijs Van Vaerenbergh's artwork, "A Giant Sculpture," was unveiled. It was placed on the 30-meter-high summit of the Hoge Mouw sand dune. (Efkesweg.be)

A beautiful bridge over the Grote Nete river, not far from Merode Castle. You must cross the bridge to continue along the Grote Nete.

On the purple heath...

The Bootjesven is one of the most famous and beautiful spots in Wortel-Kolonie 🌿. 📍What is the Bootjesven? • It is a natural fen, surrounded by pine forests and heathland, in the heart of the tranquility of the Colony. • The name refers to the "boats" of peat moss that float on the water, giving the surface a fairytale-like appearance. • The fen is a vulnerable nature reserve: special plants such as cotton grass and sundew grow there, and you often find dragonflies and waterfowl there. • It is part of the Merkske Valley, a European Natura 2000 protected area. 🌿 Experience for hikers and cyclists • The Bootjesven is located along several beautiful hiking trails that start from the De Klapekster Visitor Center. • It is an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the peace and quiet and nature. • Because it is a sensitive area, walking on designated paths and not allowing dogs off the leash is important for the preservation of this unique natural environment.

Very nice quiet walk along the water.

This tree was once magnificent. Now it seems to be dying... 😟