Top 20 Natural Monuments around Boortmeerbeek

If a castle can be a real castle...

You see the mouth of the Demer

From one river to another...

From one river to another...

Mispeldonk Nature Reserve is a beautiful and valuable nature reserve in Bonheiden, located in the province of Antwerp. The area is known for its unique ecosystems, rich biodiversity and the natural beauty of the landscape. Here are some key points about Mispeldonk: Location and Size Mispeldonk is located between Bonheiden and the nearby municipality of Rijmenam, along the banks of the Dijle. The area is part of the larger Dijle landscape, which is known for its wet meadows, meandering waterways and rich flora and fauna. Mispeldonk covers approximately 50 hectares and consists of a mix of marshlands, meadows, forests and ponds. Ecological Importance Mispeldonk is a protected nature reserve because of its special ecological value. The area has a typical structure of a flood plain of the Dijle, which makes it an important habitat for many plant and animal species: • Flora: Various rare and protected plant species grow in the area, such as marsh marigolds, cuckoo flowers and water violets. The wet grasslands and marshes provide unique vegetation that is less common elsewhere in the region. • Fauna: Mispeldonk is an important habitat for birds such as the bluethroat, water rail and reed warbler. Amphibians such as the crested newt and the green frog can also be found there. Furthermore, the area is rich in insects, including butterflies and dragonflies, that thrive in the moist environment. Water management The nature reserve plays an important role in local water management. It is located in a flood-prone area along the Dijle and functions as a natural buffer against flooding. In the event of high water levels, the area can collect water and thus help prevent flooding in nearby villages. The nature reserve contributes to the preservation of water quality by filtering and purifying the water through natural processes. Recreation and Experience Mispeldonk is a popular place for nature lovers and hikers. The area is accessible via various hiking trails that lead through the meadows and forests. There are signposted routes that give walkers the chance to explore the diversity of the landscape and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature. Birdwatchers enjoy visiting the area because of the variety of bird species that can be seen, especially during the breeding season and the migratory bird periods. Management and Protection The nature reserve is managed by Natuurpunt, a Belgian organisation that is committed to nature conservation. Natuurpunt carries out management work to protect biodiversity and maintain the landscape. This includes mowing grasslands, removing invasive plant species and maintaining the walking paths. There is collaboration with local farmers for nature-friendly agriculture, whereby meadows are extensively grazed or mowed, so that they remain suitable for meadow birds and rare plants.

Kasteeldomein Zellaer is a beautiful historic castle located in Bonheiden, a municipality in the province of Antwerp, Belgium. The castle and the surrounding domain are popular attractions due to their rich history, architecture and the natural beauty of the surroundings. History The current castle of Zellaer largely dates from the 19th century, but the origins of the domain go back much further. It is believed that a fortified castle already existed in the Middle Ages. In the 13th century, the domain was owned by the Van Duffel family. Later, it came into the possession of the noble Berthout family. In the 18th century, the old castle was destroyed, after which it was completely rebuilt in the neo-Gothic style in the 19th century by the famous architect Jean-Pierre Cluysenaar. Cluysenaar was responsible for the design of several iconic buildings in Belgium, such as the Royal Galleries of Saint-Hubert in Brussels. The castle as we know it today, with its towers, battlements and romantic appearance, dates from this period. Architecture The castle of Zellaer is a beautiful example of the neo-Gothic architectural style, which was very popular in the 19th century. The building has a fairytale appearance with towers, battlements, a moat and a drawbridge. The neo-Gothic style is known for the revival of medieval architectural elements, such as pointed arches and decorative details. The interior of the castle also contains Gothic and neo-Gothic elements. Some rooms are beautifully decorated with woodwork, stained glass windows and old furniture, which provide a glimpse into the rich past of the residents. The Domain The castle domain includes an extensive park with forests, ponds and walking paths. The park is freely accessible and is often used by hikers and nature lovers. It is a green oasis in the region and offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the nature and landscape around the castle. Current Use Zellaer Castle is owned by the municipality of Bonheiden and is managed by Kempens Landschap, an organisation that is committed to the preservation of heritage and nature. The castle is used for various events, such as weddings, photo shoots, exhibitions and cultural activities. There are also regular guided tours that give visitors the opportunity to learn more about the history and architecture of the building. Visits Visitors can enter the park freely, but access to the castle itself is often limited to special occasions or guided tours. During these tours, you will get a glimpse into the various rooms and will be told about the rich history of the domain and its former residents. Summary Zellaer Castle is an impressive piece of heritage in Flanders, with a rich history and beautiful architecture. It offers both cultural and recreational value to the region and is worth a visit for anyone interested in history, architecture or just wants to take a nice walk in a historic environment.

a little bit back in time

Lots of mosquitoes biting