또래‬에서 가장 멋진 ‪20‬개의 호수

The Thorpark Pond forms a beautiful, tranquil focal point in the landscape surrounding the former Waterschei mine site and is now a popular stop for hikers exploring the Hoge Kempen National Park. The pond is situated in a green-covered depression between the Klaverberg slag heap and the surrounding forests, where nature has slowly but surely taken over the traces of the industrial past. On the banks, you'll find reed beds, willows, and open water where dragonflies hover above the surface and moorhens forage among the vegetation. The pond also attracts a variety of songbirds and amphibians, making it a small but valuable piece of biodiversity within the larger nature park. In calm weather, the water reflects the slag heap, the clouds, and the meticulously restored mine buildings of Thor Central... a beautiful contrast between history and renewal.

Breathtaking panorama in good weather

The Teut is an extensive heathland area, which probably owes its name to the Zonhoven dialect word ‘Toot’, which means a point or protruding part. This could refer to the high Teutheuvel that protrudes above the surrounding landscape. The Teut also houses a star spot. However, this is located at the foot of the hill, with a view of a beautiful natural fen. It has not always been like this: in the 1960s this pond was a water sports centre, but that did not last long. Later, people wanted to use the pond for fish farming, but the water turned out to be much too acidic for economically viable fish species. That is why the pond was allowed to evolve into a completely natural fen, which actually also belongs better in this heathland area.

Beautiful view (open air) from the platform.

The nice wooden boardwalk that crosses the pond and swamp zone at Hoeve Mieneke on the Kelchterhoef domain is a nice attraction on the domain.

A pond always brings life,

Beautiful nature reserve. Be sure to bring your binoculars so you can spot everything here. Also bring a sun hat and sunscreen because there are many open areas.

Climb the adjacent slag heap along the north side and descend via the south side 🤭. Not suitable for children, weak leg muscles and fear of heights. For adventurous people. Be sure to wear sturdy footwear.