Attractions and Places To See around Balen - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Balen, a municipality in the Belgian province of Antwerp, include a mix of local points of interest and natural features. The area is situated within the wider Campine region, characterized by distinctive land dunes and proximity to natural scenery areas like Bosland and Sahara Lommel. Visitors can explore a variety of sites, from unique recreational experiences to significant historical landmarks. These notable landmarks around Balen offer diverse things to do in Balen Belgium.
Best attractions and places to see around Balen
- The most popular attractions is Cycling through the Trees, a cycle way that offers a unique cycling experience through the treetops in Bosland. This iconic cycle bridge rises gradually to a height of 10 meters, allowing visitors to experience nature in a distinct way.
- Another must-see spot is Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower, a viewpoint offering expansive views. From its 30-meter height, visitors can see the Sahara, ponds, and forests, with views extending up to 25 km on clear days.
- Visitors also love German War Cemetery Lommel, a historical site. This is the largest Western European cemetery from WWII, providing a place for reflection on history with more than 39,000 German soldiers laid to rest.
- Balen is known for its natural features, historical sites, and unique recreational activities. The area offers a variety of attractions, including land art installations and significant historical monuments, providing diverse experiences for visitors.
- The attractions around Balen are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 2400 upvotes and over 1300 photos shared by explorers.
Last updated: May 11, 2026
Cycling through the Trees
Highlight • Cycleway
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Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower
Highlight • Viewpoint
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German War Cemetery Lommel
Highlight • Historical Site
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De Boom In by Will Beckers
Highlight • Monument
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S-Bridge Over the Bocholt-Herentals Canal
Highlight • Bridge
The S-shaped construction is made of steel and wood and is suspended from two steel pylons.
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Other adventures around Balen
Tips from the Community
You cycle under the S-shaped bridge...
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Beautiful art made from natural materials.
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40,000 dead - that should serve as a warning to every visitor that such madness must never be repeated.
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Will Beckers is somewhat of Bosland's 'house artist'. You can find his works in Hechtel-Eksel, Pelt and Lommel. Next year (2023) he will create a total experience artwork in Lommel that will function as a gateway to Bosland in the Sahara nature reserve. Will Beckers looks at Bosland with an artist's eye. This provides interesting insights. A look that also reveals a lot of passion.
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Sturdy beautiful bridge. Ideal for pedestrians to safely cross the canal here and thus avoid the bridge of the busy N746.
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People with reduced mobility can reach the lower platform of the tower via an inclined plane. (Municipality of Lommel)
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This 30-meter-high observation tower has three platforms that offer you a wide view of the surroundings.
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The various sculptures and art objects give a special appeal to a cycle path in this area. In addition, the information boards are very informative and often have to do with the life of butterflies.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural features can I explore around Balen?
The region around Balen is known for its distinctive natural landscapes. You can explore the Kapucienenberg Land Dunes, which feature high, dry sand dunes, wet stream valleys, coniferous forests, and heather areas. The nearby Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower offers expansive views over the Sahara, ponds, and forests, allowing you to appreciate the unique natural scenery of the Campine region.
Are there family-friendly attractions near Balen?
Yes, several attractions cater to families. Pakawi Park in Balen is a local zoo and animal park. For a unique outdoor experience, consider Cycling through the Trees in Hechtel-Eksel, where you can cycle 10 meters high through the treetops. Other options include Bobbejaanland amusement park in Kasterlee or the Provincial Recreation Domain Silver Lake in Mol for water-based activities.
What historical sites are there to visit near Balen?
The most significant historical site is the German War Cemetery Lommel, the largest Western European cemetery from WWII, where over 39,000 German soldiers are laid to rest. Another notable historical landmark is the Geodetic Station Lommel (Iron Man), established in 1852 as a crucial point for mapping Belgium.
What unique outdoor activities can I do around Balen?
Beyond traditional cycling, you can experience Cycling through the Trees, an iconic cycle bridge that takes you through the treetops in Bosland. For a different kind of adventure, TODI by Sportoase in Beringen offers an indoor diving and snorkeling center.
Where can I find the best viewpoints near Balen?
The Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower is highly recommended. From its 30-meter height, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Sahara, ponds, and forests, with visibility extending up to 25 km on clear days.
Are there hiking trails available around Balen?
Yes, Balen offers various hiking opportunities. You can find detailed routes and guides for the area, including trails like the 'Grote Nete Trail' or walks through the 'De Keiheuvel Sand Dunes'. Explore more options on the Hiking around Balen guide.
What cycling routes are available near Balen?
The region is excellent for cycling. Besides the unique Cycling through the Trees experience, you can find numerous routes for different skill levels. For gravel biking enthusiasts, there's a dedicated Gravel biking around Balen guide with routes like 'Lommel Sahara – Lommel Sahara loop'.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Balen?
Visitors frequently highlight the unique experiences and natural beauty. The Cycling through the Trees is praised for its architectural splendor and immersive nature experience. The Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower is loved for its stunning panoramic views over the landscape.
Are there any art installations or unique monuments to see?
Yes, you can discover interesting land art installations such as De Boom In by Will Beckers, a braided sculpture that adds a unique artistic touch to the natural surroundings.
Are there running trails around Balen?
Yes, Balen and its surroundings offer several running trails. You can find routes that take you through diverse landscapes, including the 'Keiheuvel Airfield – Keiheuvel Dunes loop'. For more options, check out the Running Trails around Balen guide.
What is the Graspop Metal Meeting and how close is it to Balen?
The Graspop Metal Meeting is a major music festival that takes place in nearby Dessel. While not directly in Balen, it's a significant event for visitors to the wider Campine region and is easily accessible from Balen.
Is there a place for relaxation and wellness near Balen?
Yes, for relaxation and wellness, Hezemeer in Laakdal is a spa and massage facility located approximately 11.8 km from Balen, offering a tranquil escape.
Most popular attractions around Balen
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