Hoge Kempen National Park
Hoge Kempen National Park, National park and Tentative World Heritage Site in Limburg, Belgium.
Description
Hoge Kempen National Park is a protected area of about 12,000 hectares in Limburg with pine forests, heathland, and large ponds created by gravel extraction. The landscape shows a varied mix of dry and wet areas with distinctive elevation changes across different sections.
History
The landscape was shaped during the last Ice Age with deposits that formed the terrain. In the 20th century, humans extracted gravel extensively, creating the large ponds that now define the area.
Culture
The park connects six municipalities through dedicated entrance gates, each offering different local perspectives on how the region values its natural spaces. Visitors encounter various community viewpoints on land use and nature conservation.
Practical
The area offers around 200 kilometers of hiking paths and 140 kilometers of cycling routes for visitors of different abilities. Rangers lead regular tours to help explain the site's natural features.
Did you know?
The area is home to rare butterfly species and maintains extensive juniper populations across its marshes and dry valleys. These special habitats developed partly from the legacy of past extraction activities.
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Belgium preserves numerous historical sites and natural areas that remain outside the usual tourist circuits. The country contains medieval fortifications, castles from various periods, and protected areas that provide insight into its military and cultural past. The Hallerbos forest transforms...
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