Walking route
Through nature reserve De Liereman.
This varied walk takes you through the beautiful nature reserve of De Liereman, one of the oldest protected nature reserves in Flanders. You walk through quiet forests, past heathlands and peat bogs, and enjoy beautiful vistas from two viewpoints along the way.
Distance: 12 km.
Time: 3h00.
Grade: Moderate.
Type: Circular.
Gps Track: Yes.
Route description: Yes.
Wheelchair: Not suitable.
Dog: An alternative is provided.
Height gain: Flat.
Trail: 98% unpaved.
Marking: Walking nodes.
Hiking shoes recommended.
Landscape De Liereman.
The walk starts at the visitor center and first takes you through a mix of coniferous and deciduous forest. You soon reach the Echelkuilen, a beautiful and somewhat hidden fen. Via an atmospheric boardwalk, you then walk across soaking wet peat bogs, a unique landscape that has been shaped here by water and peat for thousands of years. Afterwards, you follow wide, unpaved lanes through open grasslands and forest edges towards the Dessel–Schoten Canal. The stately beech trees along the canal give this stretch an almost majestic appearance and provide a pleasant, shady passage.
Another eye-catcher is the viewing platform at De Brakeleer, where you get a beautiful view over the open landscape. From here, the route continues to a distinct heathland area with small sand dunes. In late summer, the heather fields here turn a beautiful purple.
The walk ends with a visit to the observation tower in De Liereman. From the top, you have a panoramic view of the nature reserve and truly appreciate just how varied the landscape is. Depending on the season, you can enjoy purple heather, fragrant bog myrtle bushes, or sweet-smelling broom along the way.
Download PDF for route description and map.
Dogs are not allowed between junctions 53 and 54; an alternative route has been provided.
During wet periods, you cannot pass between junctions 53 and 54 if you are not wearing boots. In that case, follow the alternative route provided for dogs.
POI 1 - Landscape de Liereman.
De Liereman is one of the oldest protected nature reserves in Flanders and is managed by Natuurpunt. The landscape consists of a unique mix of heathland, fens, forests, grasslands, and peat bogs. The area is rich in fauna and flora. With a bit of luck, you might spot birds such as the woodlark, buzzard, or nightjar here. In late summer, large parts of the area turn purple when the heather is in bloom.
Additional information:
www.natuurpunt.be.
Walks Antwerp.
