Hiking in Lommel for kids
There is so much to experience in Lommel! What truly attracts us are the numerous child-friendly hiking trails. Each one is set in beautiful natural areas, known as National Park Bosland.
Care to join us on a journey through the options?
The Golden Garden of the Pharaoh
The newest addition to the treasure hunts is The Golden Garden of the Pharaoh in Kattenbos. A very fun route full of challenges. If you complete them successfully, you might just find the way to the fabulous garden promised to the Pharaoh by the Wizard...
Are you walking with a stroller? Then choose the short blue route of 3.8 km. If you have more experienced walkers with you, the red route of 7.2 km (not stroller-friendly) is recommended!
@Eropuit_met_kidsButterfly Walk
Also in Kattenbos, you will find the Butterfly Walk. A short loop that is stroller and wheelchair accessible. A scooter or balance bike can easily come along as well.
During this loop, you will discover various play and experience elements, each accompanied by educational explanations and kid-friendly tasks. Get to know the different stages of a butterfly in a playful way. Who knows, you might even learn something new yourself 😉
@Eropuit_met_kidsFire Adventure
Do you have little firefighter fans at home? Then Fire Adventure is a must! Firefighter Ferre takes you on a journey and ensures you go home with a lot of knowledge about fire safety. The fire-themed tasks make this walk very appealing to children. An ice cream stop along the way can help motivate the littlest walkers.
Want even more fire adventures? Head to Pelt for another Fire Adventure, where Firefighter Lucie takes you along for the journey.
Nature Trail
At Centerparcs ‘De Vossemeren’, there is also a very beautiful walk, the Nature Trail, a bit hidden but definitely worth discovering. Even non-park guests can enjoy this walk.
Park your car at the main entrance. From there, walk to the Nature Lodge, the starting point of the trail. The green-striped poles guide you along and take you past the most beautiful spots in the park. You’ll cross some pretty bridges, a campsite, winding paths, some fun climbs, a mini playground, and a special staircase. Information boards along the way tell you about the park’s flora and fauna. For this 2.5 km walk, it’s best to leave the stroller at home. After the walk, stop by the Market Dome and spot the flamingos, parrots, and giant fish. You can also grab a bite and drink there.
Not tired yet? Burn off some energy at Aqua Mundo (day tickets available), Discovery Bay (an exotic bay, indoor pirate world), or at the petting zoo. If your legs are a bit tired, just choose the jeep safari and enjoy being driven around.
@Eropuit_met_kidsLommel Sahara
Have you ever heard of the Lommel Sahara? A visit to this unique nature reserve is a must. Imagine a mini-desert, surrounded by blue lakes, heathlands, and fragrant pine and deciduous forests. Climb ‘The Giant of Bosland’ and enjoy the stunning view from 30m high.
Recently, the Sahara gained the House of Nature as its welcome center, also known as Lommel’s gateway to National Park Bosland. A special place that will also delight kids, especially those who love climbing and scrambling. There’s an incredibly long log trail to explore!
The Sahara also offers several beautiful hiking routes. And yes, there’s something for kids here too. The 3 km blue route takes you past the play forest with artistic and natural play elements by Will Beckers. Sand and water are always a hit with kids, right? Climb the 30m high ‘Giant of Bosland’ (if you dare 😉) or opt for speed on the zipline located just to the right of the tower.
The treasure hunt The Treasure of King Leo is another gem that runs through the Sahara. Small but brave walkers should pick the 3.5 km blue route, which is also suitable for a sporty stroller. More adventurous walkers can choose the 7.8 km red route. If you successfully complete all the tasks, you can crack the code and find the treasure.
@Eropuit_met_kidsMore than just hiking in Lommel
Alright, after all that hiking, the little walkers might want to try something different... Lommel is the place to be for that too!
Optisport De Soeverein
Close to the Sahara, you’ll find the Optisport Soeverein swimming pool with a toddler pool and a teaching pool for children. Outside, there’s a water playground that provides cooling in the summer. Parents can relax on the terrace or inside at the brasserie De Kantine, while the kids have fun in the playground next to the pool.
Dol-fijn Playground
The large, free Dol-fijn playground is a hit for both young and older kids. The toddler and preschool section has been recently updated, plus there’s plenty to do for older kids. Don’t forget to pack the stunt scooter or skateboard, as the skate park at the front of the playground is sure to be a favorite.
Arenal Trampoline Park & Indoor Playground
Besides hiking, climbing, and playing outdoors, you can jump and have fun at Arenal, where dozens of trampolines and other play equipment await you. Kids of all ages? No worries, there’s also an indoor playground for the little ones who can’t yet join the trampoline park. Guaranteed fun for everyone!
Text & photos by: Petra Bogaerts – follow her adventures on Instagram via the channel Eropuit_met_kids
@Eropuit_met_kids