Mechelse Heide: A Purple Paradise
Explore Mechelse Heide: Hike or bike through stunning heathland in Hoge Kempen National Park, with panoramic views and diverse trails.
Mechelse Heide, a 700-hectare nature preserve in the Hoge Kempen National Park, is a haven of heathland, forests, and panoramic views. It's especially stunning when the heather blooms from mid-August to mid-September, painting the landscape in vibrant shades of purple.
A brief summary to Mechelse Heide
- Joseph Smeetslaan 280, Maasmechelen, 3630, BE
- +3289769888
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the trails can be uneven.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots.
- Visit between mid-August and mid-September to witness the heather in full bloom.
- Check the weather forecast before your visit.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Mechelse Heide via public transport, take a train to Maastricht station. From there, take bus line 63 towards Maaseik and get off at the 'Maasmechelen, Beekstraat' stop. From there, it's about a 15-minute walk to the entrance of Mechelse Heide. A single bus fare from Maastricht to Maasmechelen costs approximately €3.
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Walking
From the 'Maasmechelen, Beekstraat' bus stop, walk southwest on Beekstraat, continue onto Joseph Smeetslaan, and follow it until you reach the entrance of Mechelse Heide. The walk takes approximately 15 minutes.
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Car
If driving, use Joseph Smeetslaan 280, 3630 Maasmechelen, Belgium as the destination. From Maastricht, drive on the N278 towards Belgium, then continue on the N76 and follow signs for Maasmechelen. Free parking is available near the nature reserve. Parking can be chaotic on busy days.
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Duivelsberg
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Forest Pavilion
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Terhills Cablepark
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Terhills Aquapark
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Terhills
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Partaasch
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de Krater
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
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Vam
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Icen Market
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