Nature walk through the valley of the Grote Nete with the eye-catchers' t Schipke, the Kruiskensberg van Bevel and the Merodeforest. In short, a very varied route in the heart of the Kempen.
Distance: 10.5 km.
Time: 2h30.
Grade: Easy.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: Allowed.
Height gain: Flat.
Trail: Paved - unpaved: 25% - 75%.
Marking: Walking nodes.
Hiking shoes recommended.
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Grote Nete Valley.
This nature walk follows nodes of the walkingnetwork Kempense Netevallei. The departure point 't Schipke aan de Nete immediately delivers a nice picture. 't Schipke combined the function of ferry, inn and farm around 1900. The first part of the route follows the banks of the Nete river, you pass by a nice plank path, and then you go towards the Kruiskensberg of Bevel. The second part starts at the Prinsenhof where you dive into the Merode forest. This piece gives you an impression of the greatness of what used to be the domain of the Princes of Merode. Once out of the forest, there is a less interesting stretch of paved road, but you will soon forget that when you are presented with the varied landscapes of the valley of the Grote Nete. A beautiful walk in the heart of the Kempen.
Download PDF for nodes to follow.
After heavy rainfall, some parts can be muddy.
POI 1 - Kruiskensberg of Bevel.
According to a legend, a shepherd recovered here in the 13th century after drinking from a well. To commemorate this, a chapel and a crossroad were built. On the domain behind the chapel you will find a fen surrounded by extensive heath and dry sand ridges.
Kempens Landschap.
www.kempenslandschap.be.
POI 2 - Prinsenhof and the Merode forest.
The Prinsenhof that you pass on the hike is a square farm from the 1700s. Until 1956 it was owned by the princes of Merode van Westerlo. The oldest found notarial deed dates from 1790. The Merode family is one of the 5 princely families of the high Belgian nobility. They acquired their noble title by playing an important role in the history of the Spanish Netherlands and during the Belgian revolution that led to the birth of Belgium.
VZW De Merode.
www.landschapsparkdemerode.be.
