Oudsberg: Flanders' Highest Dune

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Explore Oudsberg, the highest dune in Flanders, offering scenic hiking trails and diverse nature within the Duinengordel nature reserve.

Oudsberg, the 'Old Mountain,' is the highest and largest inland sand dune in Flanders, Belgium, reaching 85 meters above sea level. Part of the Duinengordel, it offers a unique landscape of heathland, forests, and grasslands, attracting hikers and nature enthusiasts.

A brief summary to Oudsberg

Zavelstraat, Oudsbergen, 3670, BE
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Oudsberg.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photography.
Bring binoculars for bird watching and a camera to capture the landscapes.
Wear sturdy footwear, as some trails can be uneven and sandy, especially after rain.
Check the weather forecast before your visit to ensure a comfortable experience.
Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic spots along the trails.

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Getting There

Walking

From the nearest parking area at Camping Zavelbos, follow the well-marked hiking trails towards Oudsberg. The walk is approximately 6 km round trip and will take you through forests and open dune landscapes. Be prepared for a climb through loose sand to reach the top of the dune. There are no mandatory access fees.
Public Transport

Take a train to Beringen or Genk. From Beringen station, transfer to a bus heading to Oudsbergen. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the bus stop in Oudsbergen, follow local signs to Zavelstraat and the Oudsberg. A single bus fare will cost approximately €3-4.
Car

From the E313 motorway, take exit 29 for Beringen/Oudsbergen. Follow local signs to Zavelstraat in Oudsbergen. Note that you cannot reach Oudsberg directly by car; the closest parking is at Camping Zavelbos. From there, follow the walking trails to the dune. Parking at Camping Zavelbos is free.

Discover more about Oudsberg

Oudsberg, the pearl of the Duinengordel, presents a unique natural landscape in the heart of Limburg. As the highest and largest inland sand dune in Flanders, it rises 85 meters above sea level, offering panoramic views of the surrounding heathlands, forests, and grasslands. The area is part of the Duinengordel, a 3000-hectare network of heath and forest stretching across several municipalities.Formed over thousands of years, the Oudsberg's landscape features open shifting dunes, a result of sand drifts following the last ice age. Overgrazing in the Middle Ages contributed to the dune's formation. The area is now a protected nature reserve, integrated into the European Union Natura 2000 network. Visitors can explore the diverse ecosystems through a network of hiking trails, ranging from 2 to 14 km.The Oudsberg area offers various activities, including hiking, cycling, and horseback riding. Several reception points provide information and access to the Duinengordel, including the Commandery Gruitrode and Zavelbos.