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Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara: A Desert Oasis in Belgium

Ascend the Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara for panoramic views of Belgium's unique desert landscape, a blend of nature and industrial history.

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The Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara, or observation tower, offers panoramic views of a unique landscape in Lommel, Belgium. Once an industrial site, it has been transformed into a stunning area of sand dunes, forests, and clear blue lakes, attracting hikers and nature lovers.

A brief summary to Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara

  • 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

  • Bring comfortable shoes for hiking the sandy trails around the Lommelse Sahara.
  • Visit during the week or off-season to avoid crowds, especially during the summer months.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit; the Sahara can get very hot in the summer.
  • Bring your camera to capture the unique landscape and panoramic views from the observation tower.
  • Note that swimming is prohibited in the lakes due to dangerous currents and temperature differences.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara via public transport, take a train to Lommel Station. From there, catch bus line 82, 83, or X18 towards Lommel. Get off at the stop 'Lommel Kerk'. From Lommel Kerk, it's approximately a 30-minute walk (2.5 km) to the Uitkijktoren. Alternatively, from Lommel Station, you can take a taxi for approximately €6-€8. A single bus fare within Lommel is about €3, but a 10-journey Lijnkaart with a municipal discount costs €1 per journey within Lommel.

  • Driving

    If driving to Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara, navigate to 3920 Lommel. A new parking area called 'Parking Sahara' is located on Speelpleinstraat, between House of Nature and the manege. From Gestelsedijk, two-way traffic is now permitted on Speelpleinstraat to reach the parking area. Parking is free and has 135 spaces, including spots for horse trailers, electric cars, and disabled persons. From the parking lot, it is a short walk to the entrance of Lommelse Sahara and the tower.

  • Walking

    From the new 'Parking Sahara' on Speelpleinstraat, walk towards the 'House of Nature'. Follow the signs for the hiking trails into the Lommelse Sahara. The Uitkijktoren is approximately a 20-30 minute walk from the parking area, following well-marked paths. There are no tolls or additional access fees for reaching the tower.

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Discover more about Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara

The Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara, rising 30 meters high, provides breathtaking views of the Lommelse Sahara, a unique area within the Bosland National Park. This landscape, often called Belgium's only desert, is not a natural phenomenon but the result of industrial activities. Sand extraction in the early 20th century and pollution from a zinc factory created a bare, sandy terrain. After World War II, reforestation efforts transformed the area into a diverse landscape of dunes, pine forests, and heathland. Visitors can climb the 144 steps to the top of the tower for a stunning panorama, stretching up to 25 km on a clear day. The tower's design, inspired by the rolling lines of the Sahara dunes, features ropes draped around its structure, creating a visually appealing and integrated presence within the landscape. The area is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare mosses, lichens, birds, and the endangered ladybird spider. Hiking and cycling trails wind through the Sahara, offering various routes for exploring the unique environment. The Lommelse Sahara is more than just a scenic spot; it's a testament to ecological recovery and the interaction between industry and nature. The area also holds remnants of a former explosives testing facility, adding a historical layer to the natural beauty. Whether you're interested in hiking, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the views, the Uitkijktoren Lommelse Sahara offers a memorable experience.

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