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Borgloon

Top 20 Natural Monuments around Borgloon

Best natural monuments around Borgloon are found within the rolling landscapes of the Haspengouw region, characterized by its significant natural features. The area is known for its ecological importance, including historic high-stem orchards and scenic hilly terrain. These natural settings are often complemented by art installations that integrate with the environment, offering unique perspectives on the landscape. Borgloon provides a blend of natural beauty and ecological value for visitors.

Best natural monuments around Borgloon

  • The most popular natural monuments is…

Last updated: October 2, 2026

Floating Chapel of Helshoven

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At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area.

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Lake Het Vinne

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Since 1974, the province of (Flemish) Brabant has owned the 120 hectare Vinne. In 2000 it was decided to transform the area into a lake again. Work started in 2004; …

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Heks Castle

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The castle of Heks is a Belgian castle, located in the village of Heks (part of Heers) in the province of Limburg.
The palatial castle was built from 1770, probably …

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View of the beautiful countryside...

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Overbroek Nature Reserve

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The Overbroek-Egoven nature reserve is protected at the European level as part of the Natura 2000 area "Forests and Calcareous Grasslands of Haspengouw." Located between Heers and Gelinden, it is …

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Marieke Duchatteau

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September 17, 2026, Uitkijktoren Natuurgebied De Herkwinning

Dying night in the dawn

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At the highest point of Helshoven, you can now enjoy a breathtaking view over the Haspengouw landscape. Artist Frits Jeuris has created a unique work of art from dozens of felled fruit trees from the area. “Helsh(ea)ven”, a wooden work of art consisting of 90 standard cherry trees, each fifty years old, was hit by the cherry plague virus at the end of 2016, a contagious plant disease that causes small fruits on cherries. Now the felled trees are getting a second life. The work of art symbolizes the dynamic landscape of Haspengouw.

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With luck, spot a deer?!

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Very relaxing, beautiful well-maintained paths.

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Experience the divine feeling of floating here...

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Here, at the gallows, you are at the highest point in Helshoven. The artwork 'Helsh(ea)ven' by Frits Jeuris, known to most as the 'floating chapel', invites you to enjoy that landscape and the work itself. It is made from cherry tree wood. At the end of 2016, the 50-year-old high-stemmed trees in Helshoven had to be cut down due to a viral disease, Little Cherry, which causes tasteless cherries. The gallows represents death. Dead trees. And the dead person. And then there are the trees that are given a second life in the artwork, the floating chapel. An end, a beginning, a view, between heaven and Helshoven, inviting reflection, looking and of course what the work is best known for: that strange image of a chapel that seems to float.

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Thanks to various valuable vegetation, hikers will definitely find something to their liking in this nature reserve. But this stream valley is also the perfect place for bird watching. Moreover, from the lookout tower you have a view over a beautiful part of the Herkwinning area. The cross-pollination between natural development and good nature management ensures that this is a diverse and valuable piece of greenery.

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You can also explore the Overbroek-Egoven nature reserve under the guidance of a guide. More information: https://www.natuurpunt.be/natuurgebied/overbroek-eoven

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Frequently Asked Questions

What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Borgloon?

Visitors frequently enjoy Lake Het Vinne, Flanders' only natural inland lake, offering opportunities for walking and nature discovery. Another popular spot is the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, an artistic viewpoint providing panoramic views of the Haspengouw landscape. The Observation tower Nature reserve De Herkwinning is also highly rated for its views over the stream valley and bird watching opportunities.

Are there family-friendly natural monuments around Borgloon?

Yes, several natural monuments are suitable for families. Lake Het Vinne is a provincial domain with a playground, play forest, and sensory experience path. The Observation tower Nature reserve De Herkwinning is also considered family-friendly, and the gardens of Heks Castle are open to the public on specific weekends, offering a historical and natural experience.

What unique natural features can I expect to see in the Borgloon area?

Borgloon is known for its rolling Haspengouw landscape, often called the 'Tuscany of Flanders,' featuring significant natural beauty. You'll find historic high-stem orchards, particularly the Grootloon High-Stem Orchards, which are a 'blossom hotspot' in spring. The region also boasts the unique Lake Het Vinne, the only natural inland lake in Flanders.

What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?

The Haspengouw region around Borgloon is ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy cycling on routes like the 'Blossom Trail' or explore gravel biking and road cycling routes. For more details on routes, you can check the Gravel biking around Borgloon, Road Cycling Routes around Borgloon, and Cycling around Borgloon guides.

Are there any historical sites or cultural attractions integrated with the natural landscape?

Yes, the region beautifully blends nature with culture and history. Heks Castle, an 18th-century estate with historic gardens and a landscape park, is a notable example. Additionally, art installations like the Floating Chapel of Helshoven and the 'Reading Between the Lines' (See-Through Church) offer unique perspectives on the natural environment.

What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments in Borgloon?

The Haspengouw region is particularly enchanting in spring when the high-stem orchards are in full blossom, creating a 'blossom hotspot.' Autumn also offers beautiful scenery with ripe fruit and vibrant foliage. However, the rolling landscapes and viewpoints provide stunning vistas year-round for hiking and cycling.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible natural monuments or trails?

Yes, Lake Het Vinne is noted as wheelchair accessible. The provincial domain offers two all-terrain wheelchairs and slings available free of charge for visitors, making it an inclusive option for exploring nature.

Where can I find panoramic views of the Haspengouw landscape?

For breathtaking panoramic views, visit the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, located at 'De Galg,' the highest point in Helshoven. The Observation tower Nature reserve De Herkwinning also provides excellent views over the stream valley and surrounding area.

What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Borgloon?

Visitors appreciate the diverse natural experiences, from the ecological value of the high-stem orchards to the scenic hilly terrain. The integration of art installations like the Floating Chapel of Helshoven, which offers unique perspectives, is also a highlight. The area's beauty is well-loved, with over 800 upvotes and 400 photos shared by the komoot community.

Are there opportunities for bird watching in the natural reserves?

Yes, the Observation tower Nature reserve De Herkwinning is an excellent spot for bird watching, offering views over the stream valley. Lake Het Vinne is also an ideal area for migratory birds, especially after its transformation back into a lake.

Can I find information about the broader Landscape Park Haspengouw?

Yes, the Borgloon area is part of the larger Landscape Park Haspengouw, which emphasizes its importance for nature and outdoor activities. You can find more information about the park and its offerings on the Visit Limburg website.

Are there any specific trails or routes recommended for exploring the natural monuments?

While specific trails for individual natural monuments vary, the overall Haspengouw region offers numerous routes for hiking and cycling that pass by these sites. For example, the 'Blossom Trail' is popular for cycling through the orchards. You can explore detailed routes in the Cycling around Borgloon guide.

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Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Borgloon:

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