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De Watering Nature Preserve: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Discover a biodiverse paradise in Lommel: Hike through wetlands, observe unique plants & birds, and experience tranquil nature at De Watering Nature Preserve.

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De Watering Nature Preserve, located in Lommel, Belgium, is a haven for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Once a dry heath, it has been transformed into a thriving ecosystem with over 350 plant species and 120 bird species thanks to a unique irrigation system dating back to the 19th century.

A brief summary to De Watering

  • Wateringstraat 80, Lommel, 3920, BE
  • 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 binoculars for optimal birdwatching, as De Watering is home to over 120 bird species.
  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking or hiking on the well-maintained trails.
  • Visit the Watering House to learn about the history and ecology of the preserve (open June-September on Sunday afternoons, and the first Sunday afternoon of the month from October to May).
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Heuvelse Heide for a longer hiking experience.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach De Watering via public transport, take a train to Lommel station. From Lommel station, take bus number 2 towards 'Heusden-Zolder'. Get off at the 'Lommel Watering' stop, approximately a 10-minute ride. From the bus stop, it is a short 5-minute walk to De Watering; follow the signs to Wateringstraat. A single bus fare within Lommel generally costs around €2-3.

  • Car

    If traveling by car, set your GPS to Wateringstraat 80, 3920 Lommel. From the center of Lommel, head southeast on Kerkstraat toward Molenstraat. Turn left onto Molenstraat, continue onto Wateringstraat, and follow the road for about 2 kilometers. De Watering will be on your right. Free parking is available nearby. However, parking might be limited during peak seasons.

  • Walking

    If you are already in Lommel and prefer walking, head south on Kerkstraat, then turn left onto Molenstraat. Continue straight until you reach Wateringstraat. De Watering will be on your right after a 25-minute walk, approximately 2 kilometers from the city center.

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Discover more about De Watering

De Watering Nature Preserve, situated in the northeast of Lommel on the border with the Netherlands, offers a tranquil escape into nature. This expansive area, part of the Bosland National Park, is a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna. What was once a dry heath landscape has been transformed into a rich, biodiverse environment thanks to an ingenious irrigation system implemented in the 19th century. This system, known as "witteren," was designed to irrigate the sandy soils of the Campine region, creating fertile grasslands for livestock. Visitors can explore well-maintained trails that wind through the preserve, offering opportunities for leisurely walks, invigorating hikes, and peaceful contemplation. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the numerous species that call De Watering home, while nature enthusiasts can marvel at the incredible variety of plant life. The Watering House contains exhibits about the origins and management of the flow meadows, and its rich fauna and flora. The irrigation system is vividly presented on a model. De Watering is a silent witness to the Kempen region's agricultural history and a testament to the power of innovative land management. The preserve is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of nature in every season. Nearby, the Heuvelse Heide offers further opportunities for hiking and exploring diverse landscapes.

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