웨스텔로 최고의 워킹 & 하이킹 경로

Information sign with a map about Varenbroek, a small nature reserve on the Varendonkse Beek or Rode Laak stream. This area was long the private hunting ground of the Princes of Merode, meaning the natural environment has been well preserved and several large oaks can be found here.

The gatehouse of Tongerlo Abbey forms the monumental entrance to the abbey grounds. Historically, the building served as a checkpoint and reception point for visitors and goods. Architecturally, it aligns with the austere, functional abbey building, with sturdy walls and a clearly defined passageway marking the transition from secular to monastic life.

In De Beeltjens, the star-shaped pattern of the avenues is particularly striking. These avenues were first laid out at the beginning of the 18th century by Jan Philips Eugeen de Merode. The area is also known for its rich variety of coniferous and deciduous trees, which creates a great botanical diversity.

Beautiful abbey church with neo-Gothic elements and many details.

Above the gate are late-Gothic pointed-arch niches with statues of saints by G. Polders and J. Humbeeck from 1992. These depict the patroness Mary (the abbey is dedicated to Our Lady), flanked by Saint Barbara and Saint Catherine. In the passageway are a second profiled basket-handle arch and, on the left, rectangular wall openings, the so-called "poor window" for distributing bread to the needy. The courtyard façade is anchored and shows the sporadic use of sandstone for corner and recess blocks. The windows are arched, and the profiled iron-sandstone basket-arch gate sits beneath a Gothic niche with a trefoil and a statue of Saint Dymphna. A loading hatch is located higher up. (Inventory of Immovable Heritage)

A very characteristic feature of De Beeltjens is the star-shaped pattern of the avenues. The first avenues were laid out in the early 18th century by Jan Philips Eugeen de Merode. De Beeltjens are especially known for their wide variety of coniferous and deciduous trees. (Nature and Forest)

Based on this signpost at the Asberg you can go in different directions through the Beeltjens.

This bridge allows you to cross the busy road safely. Cyclists must dismount.