Campine (Kempen), Belgium Travel Guide
Discover the serene landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Campine, Belgium's hidden gem, where nature, history, and local charm come together.
Nestled in the northeastern part of Belgium, the Campine (or Kempen) region is a serene escape offering a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Known for its expansive heathlands, tranquil forests, and picturesque villages, the Campine is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a network of well-marked trails, it is perfect for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, allowing you to immerse yourself in its unspoiled landscapes. Beyond its natural allure, the Campine boasts a rich history and vibrant local culture. Visit historic towns like Turnhout, known for its medieval castle and the National Museum of Playing Cards. Explore quaint villages dotted with traditional Flemish architecture, where local markets and festivals offer a taste of authentic Belgian life. The region is also home to several nature reserves, such as the Hoge Kempen National Park, where you can experience diverse flora and fauna up close. Foodies will delight in the culinary offerings of the Campine. Savor regional specialties like 'Kempense vlaai' (a type of pie) and enjoy hearty meals at cozy local taverns. The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm, making every visit memorable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, the Campine has something for everyone.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Campine (Kempen).
- Rent a bike to explore the extensive cycling trails that crisscross the region; the flat terrain makes it an enjoyable experience for all ages.
- Visit in late summer or early autumn when the heathlands are in full bloom, offering a spectacular display of purple hues.
- Don't miss the local markets, especially the Sunday market in Mol, for fresh produce and unique local crafts.
- Check out the visitor centers at nature reserves for guided tours and detailed information on the local flora and fauna.
- Try to learn a few basic Dutch phrases, as it's the primary language spoken in the region, though many locals also understand English.
Top City Travel Guides in Campine (Kempen)
The cities of Campine (Kempen), and the easiest places to base yourself.
Destinations in Campine (Kempen)
Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.
Explore Campine (Kempen): Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
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Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Campine (Kempen)
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Fort Eben-Emael
Explore Fort Eben-Emael, a military museum in Liège, Belgium, rich in history and architectural marvels, perfect for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
National Park Hoge Kempen
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of National Park Hoge Kempen, Belgium's first national park, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Sahara Lommel
Experience the unique Saharan landscapes of Sahara Lommel, a captivating nature preserve in Belgium, perfect for outdoor adventures and family outings.
domain Pietersheim
Explore Domain Pietersheim, a picturesque park in Lanaken, Belgium, perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility and outdoor fun.
Best landmarks in Campine (Kempen)
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Grand Place
Discover the architectural splendor and vibrant culture of Grand Place, Brussels' iconic central square and UNESCO World Heritage site.
Gravensteen
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of Gravensteen, Ghent's iconic medieval castle and a top tourist attraction.
Citadelle de Dinant
Experience the breathtaking views and rich history at the Citadelle de Dinant, a stunning fortress overlooking the Meuse River.
Village Sunparks Kempense Meren
Discover the beauty of Belgium at Village Sunparks Kempense Meren, a perfect family-friendly holiday park with endless activities and serene natural surroundings.
Best restaurants in Campine (Kempen)
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Lamershof
Discover authentic German cuisine at Lamershof in Kempen - where traditional flavors meet modern dining experiences.
Venga Kempen
Discover culinary excellence at Venga Kempen - where tradition meets modern taste in a vibrant atmosphere.
Restaurant Ela
Experience authentic Turkish cuisine at Restaurant Ela in Kempen—where flavors meet tradition in a cozy setting.
de Waterkant
Experience authentic Belgian cuisine at De Waterkant in Lommel – where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Best bars in Campine (Kempen)
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Delirium Café
Discover Delirium Café in Brussels, where over 2,000 beers await in a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere.
o'reilly's Irish Pub Brussels
Experience the charm of Ireland at O'Reilly's Irish Pub in Brussels, where delicious food, lively music, and great drinks await.
Le Trappiste
Discover the charm of Bruges at Le Trappiste, a cozy bar and cafe offering a wide selection of local beers and delicious snacks in a warm atmosphere.
Bar Des Amis
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Brussels at Bar Des Amis, where a diverse selection of drinks and a welcoming atmosphere await.
Best nightclubs in Campine (Kempen)
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Versuz
Experience the pulse of Hasselt's nightlife at Versuz, a premier night club known for its electrifying atmosphere and world-class DJs.
Spirito Brussels
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Spirito Brussels, a chic disco club where energy and style come together for an unforgettable evening.
Millennium nightclub
Discover the pulse of Herselt's nightlife at Millennium Nightclub, a vibrant disco club perfect for dancing and socializing.
Club Lima
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Antwerp at Club Lima, where dance beats, vibrant crowds, and unforgettable moments await.
Best shops in Campine (Kempen)
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Designer Outlet Roermond
Shop luxury brands at unbeatable prices in the heart of Roermond - a shopper's haven awaits you at Designer Outlet Roermond!
Docks Bruxsel
Explore Docks Bruxsel, Brussels' premier shopping mall with diverse stores and delectable dining options for every taste.
City2
Explore City2, Brussels' premier shopping mall, featuring a vast selection of shops, eateries, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere.
Woluwe Shopping Center
Discover shopping bliss at Woluwe Shopping Center, where fashion, food, and fun come together in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert.
Explore Campine (Kempen) on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Campine (Kempen), mapped for you.
Campine (Kempen) Essentials
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Campine (Kempen) is located in the northeastern part of Belgium. The nearest international airports are Brussels Airport (BRU) and Eindhoven Airport (EIN) in the Netherlands. From Brussels, you can take a train to Antwerp or Hasselt, which are major cities on the edge of the Campine region. The train journey takes approximately 1 hour. From Eindhoven, you can rent a car or take a bus to cross into Belgium and reach destinations in the Campine. The region is also accessible by car via the E313 and E34 highways.
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Public transportation in Campine includes trains, buses, and bicycles. The Belgian National Railway Company (SNCB/NMBS) operates regular train services connecting major cities and towns in the region. Local buses operated by De Lijn offer extensive coverage, making it easy to travel within and between towns. Biking is a popular way to explore Campine, thanks to its flat terrain and well-maintained cycling paths. Car rentals are also available for those who prefer more flexibility.
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Belgium uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases in rural areas and local markets. ATMs are readily available in both urban and rural areas, allowing you to withdraw Euros as needed.
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Campine is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard safety precautions should be followed. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
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In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance, which is the general emergency number in Belgium for police, fire, and medical services. Major towns in Campine have medical facilities and pharmacies where you can receive care and purchase medications. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Casual clothing is generally acceptable, but dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions, especially in religious settings. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't be loud or disruptive. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a friendly smile. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and be gracious when offered food. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
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To experience Campine like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns like Mol and Turnhout where you can buy fresh produce and local specialties. Engage with the locals, who are often friendly and eager to share their knowledge about the region's history and culture. Don't miss exploring the natural reserves such as Kalmthoutse Heide and Hoge Kempen National Park, which offer stunning landscapes and outdoor activities. Renting a bike and following the well-marked cycling routes is a great way to immerse yourself in the local scenery.
When is the best time to visit Campine (Kempen)?
Useful Local Phrases for Campine (Kempen)
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Campine (Kempen). Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloHallo
[Hah-lo] - GoodbyeTot ziens
[Tot zeens] - YesJa
[Yah] - NoNee
[Nay] - Please/You're welcomeAlsjeblieft
[Al-she-bleeft] - Thank youDank je
[Dahnk yuh] - Excuse me/SorryNeem me niet kwalijk
[Naym meh neet kwa-lik] - How are you?Hoe gaat het?
[Hoo ghat het] - Fine. And you?Goed. En jij?
[Ghoot. En yay?] - Do you speak English?Spreek je Engels?
[Sprayk yuh Eng-els] - I don't understandIk begrijp het niet
[Ik be-ghrayf het neet]
- HelloHallo
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag het menu willen zien, alsjeblieft
[Ik zow grahkh het meh-nu wil-len zeen, al-she-bleeft] - I don't eat meatIk eet geen vlees
[Ik eet ghen vlays] - Cheers!Proost!
[Prohst] - I would like to pay, pleaseIk zou graag willen betalen, alsjeblieft
[Ik zow grahkh wil-len beh-ta-len, al-she-bleeft]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIk zou graag het menu willen zien, alsjeblieft
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- Help!Help!
[Help] - Go away!Ga weg!
[Gah vehg] - Call the Police!Bel de politie!
[Bel de po-lee-tsie] - Call a doctor!Bel een dokter!
[Bel ayn dok-ter] - I'm lostIk ben verdwaald
[Ik ben fer-dwahlt] - I'm illIk ben ziek
[Ik ben zeek]
- Help!Help!
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- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... kopen
[Ik zow grahkh ... koh-pen] - I'm just lookingIk kijk alleen maar
[Ik kayk ah-layn mar] - How much is it?Hoeveel kost het?
[Hoo-veel kost het] - That's too expensiveDat is te duur
[Daht is te dur] - Can you lower the price?Kun je de prijs verlagen?
[Kun yuh de prays ver-lah-ghen]
- I'd like to buy...Ik zou graag ... kopen
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- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
[Hoo laat is het] - It's one o'clockHet is één uur
[Het is ayn oor] - Half past (10)Half tien
[Half teen] - MorningOchtend
[Okh-tent] - AfternoonMiddag
[Mid-dahkh] - EveningAvond
[Ah-vont] - YesterdayGisteren
[Ghis-te-ren] - TodayVandaag
[Vahn-dahkh] - TomorrowMorgen
[Mor-ghen] - 11
[Eyn] - 22
[Twee] - 33
[Drie] - 44
[Vier] - 55
[Vijf] - 66
[Zes] - 77
[Zeven] - 88
[Acht] - 99
[Negen] - 1010
[Tien]
- What time is it?Hoe laat is het?
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- Where's a/the...?Waar is een ...?
[Waar is ayn ...?] - What's the address?Wat is het adres?
[Wat is het ah-dres] - Can you show me (on the map)?Kun je me (op de kaart) laten zien?
[Kun yuh meh (op de kaart) lah-ten zeen] - When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is de volgende (bus)?
[Vahn-neer is de vol-ghende (bus)] - A ticket (to ....)Een ticket (naar ...)
[Ayn tik-ket (nahr ...)]
- Where's a/the...?Waar is een ...?
History of Campine (Kempen)
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The Campine region, known as Kempen in Dutch, boasts a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings suggest that the area was inhabited by Neolithic communities. The Roman Empire left a significant mark on the region, with evidence of Roman roads and settlements. These ancient routes facilitated trade and movement, influencing the development of local settlements.
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During the Middle Ages, the Campine region saw the establishment of numerous monasteries and abbeys, such as the Abbey of Postel. These religious institutions played a crucial role in cultivating the land, draining marshes, and promoting agricultural development. The fertile soil and strategic location helped the region thrive as a center for farming and livestock.
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The Campine region was significantly impacted by the Eighty Years' War (1568-1648) between the Spanish Empire and the Dutch Republic. The area saw battles and skirmishes, and its inhabitants experienced hardship and displacement. Spanish influence left a lasting cultural and architectural imprint, visible in some of the historic buildings and local traditions.
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The 19th century brought significant changes to the Campine region with the advent of the Industrial Revolution. The discovery of coal in the eastern part of Kempen led to the establishment of coal mines, transforming the local economy. Towns such as Beringen, Heusden-Zolder, and Genk grew rapidly as mining communities, attracting workers from across Belgium and beyond.
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The Campine region was affected by both World War I and World War II. During World War I, the area saw occupation and fortification by German forces. In World War II, the Battle of the Bulge impacted the region, with significant military activity and civilian suffering. Post-war recovery led to modernization and diversification of the local economy, with a shift from heavy industry to service sectors and tourism.
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The Campine region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Folklore, music, and local festivals play an integral role in community life. Events such as the Geel Procession, celebrating Saint Dymphna, and the annual Heikneuter Festival in Kasterlee showcase the region's vibrant cultural scene. Traditional crafts like pottery, weaving, and lace-making are still practiced, preserving the area's artisanal legacy.
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The Campine region is home to several nature reserves and parks, reflecting its commitment to environmental conservation. The Hoge Kempen National Park, the first national park in Belgium, offers a glimpse into the region's diverse flora and fauna. Efforts to protect heathlands, forests, and wetlands have made the Campine a destination for ecotourism and outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and birdwatching.
Neighbouring Regions of Campine (Kempen)
The closest regions to Campine (Kempen), if you have time for more than one.
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Explore More of Belgium
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Explore BelgiumCampine (Kempen) in Photos
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Enchanting Campine: Belgium's Hidden Gem
Nestled in the northeastern part of Belgium, the Campine (or Kempen) region is a serene escape offering a charming blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Known for its expansive heathlands, tranquil forests, and picturesque villages, the Campine is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With a network of well-marked trails, it is perfect for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding, allowing you to immerse yourself in its unspoiled landscapes. Beyond its natural allure, the Campine boasts a rich history and vibrant local culture. Visit historic towns like Turnhout, known for its medieval castle and the National Museum of Playing Cards. Explore quaint villages dotted with traditional Flemish architecture, where local markets and festivals offer a taste of authentic Belgian life. The region is also home to several nature reserves, such as the Hoge Kempen National Park, where you can experience diverse flora and fauna up close. Foodies will delight in the culinary offerings of the Campine. Savor regional specialties like 'Kempense vlaai' (a type of pie) and enjoy hearty meals at cozy local taverns. The warm hospitality of the locals adds to the charm, making every visit memorable. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, the Campine has something for everyone.