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Natuurgebied Bergerven: A Haven of Reclaimed Nature

Explore Bergerven: a Limburg nature reserve transformed from industry to serene landscapes, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife.

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Natuurgebied Bergerven, near Maaseik, Belgium, is a stunning example of nature reclaiming a former industrial site. Once a large heathland transformed into pine forests and later a gravel extraction area, it now boasts diverse landscapes, including lakes, heathlands, and forests, offering visitors a tranquil escape and a chance to witness nature's resilience.

A brief summary to Natuurgebied Bergerven

  • 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 sturdy shoes, as the trails can be uneven, especially after rain.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the lakes attract diverse species.
  • Keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and grazing animals.
  • Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The most central starting point is the Kapel van de Weerstand (Brugstraat, 3650 Dilsen-Stokkem). From the chapel, several well-marked trails of varying lengths (2.7 km to 14.7 km) guide you through the reserve. Follow the signs for the trail you have chosen. Note that some trails may be closed to dogs or require them to be leashed.

  • Public Transport

    From Maaseik, take bus line 16, 26, 63, or X27 to one of the stops closest to Natuurgebied Bergerven. Bus lines 27 and x27 connect from the Genk train station to Maaseik. From the bus stop, follow local signs to the Kapel van de Weerstand, a common starting point for exploring Bergerven. A single bus fare within Maaseik typically costs around €3.

  • Car

    From the E314 motorway, take the exit towards Maaseik and follow signs for Natuurgebied Bergerven. Several parking areas are available, including one at the Kapel van de Weerstand (Brugstraat, 3650 Dilsen-Stokkem) and others in nearby Opoeteren. Parking is free. Be aware that some roads may be closed due to construction.

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Discover more about Natuurgebied Bergerven

Natuurgebied Bergerven, located between Maaseik and Dilsen-Stokkem in Limburg, Belgium, is a remarkable nature reserve born from industrial transformation. Before 1870, the area was a vast heathland. With the decline of the wool industry, it was planted with pine trees to support the mining industry. From 1973 to 1992, the landscape was significantly altered by gravel extraction, resulting in several lakes that cover over 50 hectares. Plans to turn the area into a recreational resort were fortunately diverted, and between 2007 and 2010, Limburgs Landschap vzw spearheaded a project to restore Bergerven into a thriving natural habitat. Today, it's a diverse landscape featuring heathlands, forests, and open water, attracting a variety of wildlife. Konik horses and Galloway cattle graze freely, managing the land in an eco-friendly way. Visitors can explore Bergerven via several well-marked walking routes. The trails lead through varied terrains, offering panoramic views from the edge of the Kempens Plateau. The Kapel van de Weerstand (Chapel of Resistance), a monument commemorating 130 members of the local resistance during World War II, serves as a central starting point for many explorations. Bergerven is now part of the Hoge Kempen National Park since 2020.

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