Top 20 Natural Monuments around Lommel

Lommel is known as the 'city of sand and glass' due to its unique landscape. You'll find the Lommel Sahara, a surprising mini-desert with vast sandy plains, clear blue lakes, and tranquil pine forests. This area offers a distinct contrast of sandy dunes against reflective water bodies, providing a serene environment.

Yes, the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower is a must-visit. This 30-meter-high watchtower requires climbing 144 steps, but the reward is a phenomenal panoramic view of the expansive Lommel Sahara and its surroundings, extending up to 25 km on a clear day.

The area around Lommel's natural monuments is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. For example, there are numerous MTB trails, cycling routes like 'Cycling through the trees in Bosland', and running trails that take you through the unique landscapes.

Absolutely! Many natural monuments in Lommel are family-friendly. The Lommel Sahara itself is great for families, with easy trails. Additionally, the De Boom In by Will Beckers art installation and the Willow huts by Will Beckers offer interactive experiences, with the willow huts functioning as a forest playground where children (and adults!) can climb and explore.

The House of Nature (Huis van de Natuur) is a monumental steel sculpture by artist Will Beckers, located at the edge of the Lommel Sahara. It serves as a gateway to Bosland National Park and the starting point for all Sahara walks. It's not just art; it's a multifunctional reception area with a picnic spot and amenities, blending art with nature. You can find more information about it on visitlommel.be.

Lommel's natural monuments offer beauty year-round. In winter, the Lommel Sahara becomes a bivouac for various water birds like grebes, ducks, and swans, making it ideal for birdwatching. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the forests, while spring and summer are perfect for hiking and enjoying the lakes. Each season offers a unique perspective on the landscape.

Yes, the natural monuments, especially the Lommel Sahara, are home to diverse wildlife. The area around the lakes is particularly rich in birdlife. There's even a dedicated Birdwatching wall Lommelse Sahara where you can quietly observe water birds and learn about the local species.

Lommel is known for blending art with nature. Besides the House of Nature, you can explore De Boom In by Will Beckers, a steel sculpture that acts as a gateway to the Sahara. Another notable installation is the Willow huts by Will Beckers, which are intricate braided structures and a 25-meter-long tunnel made of willow twigs, offering an interactive art experience.

Visitors frequently praise the unique contrast of the sandy plains against the pine forests and reflective water bodies, which creates a captivating and serene environment. The panoramic views from the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower are also highly appreciated, as is the opportunity to explore the diverse landscapes and interactive art installations.

Yes, for areas like the House of Nature, which serves as a starting point for exploring the Sahara, there is parking available. A buggy-friendly path leads from the parking lot to the entrance, making it convenient for visitors with young children or those needing easier access.

The Lommel Sahara spans about 200 hectares, offering various hiking trails. You can spend anywhere from a couple of hours for a short walk to a full day exploring different routes, climbing the observation tower, and enjoying the art installations. The experience can be tailored to your preferred activity level and time.