Summary of Activities in Lommel
In the mid-19th century, quartz sand, an essential material for glassmaking, was discovered near Lommel. This event catalyzed a thriving industry that continues to influence the region today, significantly transforming the local landscape.
Former quarries have transitioned into nature reserves, effectively contributing to the vast Bosland, the largest forested area in Flanders. Lommel’s legacy in glassmaking is celebrated at Het GlazenHuis, a museum and educational center under a striking 30-meter glass spire. The town also features a Center Parcs holiday village nearby, alongside numerous engaging activities.
Visitors can wander through a forest adorned with remarkable sound sculptures, traverse a circular bridge above the tree canopy, or sample beverages at one of the few authentic Trappist breweries in the world.
1. Bosland
The natural expanse surrounding Lommel, as well as adjacent municipalities such as Peer, Overpelt, and Hechtel-Eksel, has been integrated to form the largest public forest area in Flanders.
Bosland encompasses over 5,100 hectares, composed of numerous smaller nature reserves. The Lommelse Sahara will be discussed further below; additionally, in Lommel, you can discover the pastures of De Watering, the heathland of Heuvelse Heide, and the Scots pine forest of Pijnven.
The vast landscapes have been designed for accessibility, welcoming walkers, cyclists, and horseback riders alike. Visitors can procure adventure packs for children’s treasure hunts at the tourist office in Lommel.
2. Fietsen door de Bomen
One of the memorable experiences available in Bosland is the opportunity to cycle above the tree canopy at this remarkable structure located in Hechtel-Eksel. Travelers can access Fietsen door de Bomen from Lommel via the extensive cycle route network, specifically at junction (knooppunt) 272. The circular cycling path measures 700 meters in length, 100 meters in width, and rises to a height of 10 meters, featuring a gentle gradient of 3-4%.
This structure is supported by steel pillars that blend seamlessly with the straight trunks of the Scots pines in the Pijnven forest.
3. Lommelse Sahara
Walking north from the center of Lommel for just a few minutes will lead you to an unusual dune landscape enveloped by coniferous woods, designated as a nature reserve. A century ago, this area would have presented a starkly different scene, being a quarry for quartz sand, while a zinc factory marred the surroundings.
Fortunately, those times are now in the past; the dense pine forest on the borders was planted to contain the spread of these white sands, limiting Lommelse Sahara to just under 200 hectares. At the dune’s core, there exists a striking lake, which beautifully contrasts with the glistening sand surrounding it. To the north, the Bocholt–Herentals Canal can be traversed via a suspension footbridge, allowing for the continuation of your hike.
4. Uitkijktoren Sahara
Since 2015, an impressive architectural feature has graced the waters of Lommelse Sahara. This jagged, 30-meter lookout tower features undulating contours on its frame, reminiscent of the rolling sands of the Sahara desert, achieved through suspended ropes. Over 3.5 kilometers of rope adorn the structure, and the tower comprises 144 steps that lead to a viewpoint offering a panorama extending more than 25 kilometers on clear days, encompassing the entirety of Bosland. This design is a collaborative effort between MaMu Architecten and Ateliereen.
5. Het GlazenHuis
Quartz sand, which is crucial for glassmaking, has been mined around Lommel since 1891. This activity has undeniably influenced the local topography, as former quarries have been transformed into nature reserves, including the Lommelse Sahara. Until the end of the 20th century, Lommel was also home to a significant glassworks.
In recognition of its contribution to the industry, the Flemish Centre for Contemporary Glass Art, known as Het GlazenHuis, was inaugurated in 2007. Its striking 30-meter glass spire is hard to miss, and each year it hosts two exhibitions featuring internationally acclaimed glass artists. Furthermore, Het GlazenHuis serves an educational function, offering workshops and demonstrations at its own furnace, which operates at over 1100°C. Additionally, visitors can acquire exquisite pieces of hand-blown glass as mementos.
6. Center Parcs de Vossemeren
Located adjacent to the Dutch border on the eastern edge of Lommelse Sahara, Center Parcs represents a branch of the holiday village chain. Positioned just three kilometers from the heart of Lommel, visitors can purchase a day pass to enjoy the extensive array of facilities available. Nestled amidst expansive woodlands, the site features a spectacular indoor subtropical pool, an expansive pirate-themed indoor play area, two lakes designated for water sports, a petting zoo, various dining establishments, and a wellness center.
A multitude of activities is also available, including climbing, archery, mini-golf, paintball, and laser tag.
7. Marktplein
Characterized by a rough triangular design and elegant rows of lime trees, the market square in Lommel is an inevitable stop during your visit. As of early 2020, this area, along with Dorp to the east, has recently undergone a landscaping transformation.
The local tourist information office is situated on the eastern side; additionally, you will find a number of cafés, brasseries, and restaurants lining the borders of the square. Nestled within the foliage is the historic Neoclassical town hall, constructed in 1845, which primarily serves as a venue for weddings. The square features a charming bandstand and a water pump, both dating back to 1905. A weekly market occurs on Wednesday afternoons, while from April to October, the Teutenmarkt, a flea and antique market, is held every Sunday.
8. Sint-Pietersbandenkerk
While the majority of the Sint-Pietersbandenkerk, located in the center of Lommel, showcases a neo-Gothic aesthetic from the early 20th century, the tower, constructed in a Kempen Gothic style, dates back to 1388. Inside, there exists a wealth of artwork predating the church, with the most significant being a polychrome carving of Mary from the 16th century. The church also boasts 32 splendid neo-Gothic stained glass windows, created between 1906 and 1912, painted by Gustave Ladon from Ghent. The organ is of historical importance as well, being an early creation of master organ builder Arnold Clerinx, who was only 27 years old at the time.
The tower houses a 63-bell carillon; every Wednesday from 15:00 to 16:00, Lommel’s carilloneur, Liesbeth Janssens, presents a concert. Visitors can explore this historic tower and its carillon on the first Wednesday of each month for free from 15:00 to 16:00.
9. Burgemeestershuis en Park
Just south of Lommel’s center lies a charming expanse of public green space. This area, which was once parkland for the mayor’s residence, features winding paths around lawns and mature trees. During the summer months, a vibrant schedule of live music and festivals takes place in the park, centered around the bandstand. The mayor’s residence, dating back to 1898 and built in an Eclectic style, is located on the eastern side at Stationsstraat, and up until recently housed the local tourist information office. Presently, since the 2010s, it operates as a restaurant named “Het Burgemeesterhuis,” complete with a terrace overlooking the garden.
10. Leyssensmolen
Originally constructed in 1797 in the village of Olmen, this striking post mill is located in the hamlet of Kattenbos. Throughout its history, Leyssensmolen has been dismantled, relocated, and reassembled three times, specifically in 1808-09, 1964, and 2007. The most recent relocation took place on Zandstraat, enhancing the mill’s ability to capture the wind. Painted in a captivating shade of sky blue and positioned on a grassy mound, Leyssensmolen has predominantly milled flour, except for the period between 1955 and 1988 when its internal mechanism was removed. Visitors can interact with the miller in the afternoons on the first Sunday and third Saturday of each month, and an annual festival featuring market stalls and family-friendly activities occurs at the end of May.
11. Klankenbos
This unique museum in Pelt is situated within a forest teeming with an evolving collection of sound-producing art installations. Currently, there are approximately 20 pieces at Klankenbos, created by artists from across Europe. These intriguing works are not only visually captivating but also produce sounds, whether manually operated or ingeniously utilizing the natural power of the wind to resonate, hum, rustle, or blare.
One installation, named “Liglicht,” features a bench that emits different sounds based on how individuals sit on it, while others capture ambient sounds and playback upon approach. Another exhibit, entitled “Tacet,” consists of a sound-proofed glass box that offers views of the surrounding forest while silencing the external noise.
12. Achelse Kluis
Achel Abbey, which houses one of the few Trappist breweries globally, is conveniently located in Hamont-Achel. Hermits were present at this site from the 17th century until the French Revolutionary Army invasion in 1789. Subsequently, in 1846, Trappist monks from Westmalle Abbey established a priory here, achieving abbey status in 1871. In addition to cheese production, Achel Abbey has brewed beer since the 1850s, offering a range of Bruin and Blond beers for public sale. These beers are categorized according to their ABV (5, 7, 8, and 9.5), with a unique Bruin and Blond 5s exclusively available at the monastery café.
While access to most of the monastery and brewery is restricted, guests can relax at the café featuring windows overlooking the brewhouse, and a gift shop in the courtyard sells beer, cheese, and handicrafts produced at the abbey.
13. LAGO Pelt Dommelslag
Located in Pelt, approximately 15 minutes east of Lommel, this indoor swimming pool and recreation center offers a multitude of opportunities for enjoyment. At LAGO Pelt, guests can explore a wave pool, various children’s pools, thrilling slides, a lazy river, and an outdoor pool for warmer days exceeding 20°C.
The center also features a 25-meter pool with six lanes for those seeking cardiovascular exercise. For parents and adult guests looking for relaxation, there is a spacious wellness area limited to individuals aged 16 and above. This area includes a panoramic sauna, biosauna, whirlpool, steam bath, warm lagoon, and a soothing wellness garden among its amenities. Additionally, complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue, along with a restaurant offering healthy meal options post-swim.
14. Deutscher Soldatenfriedhof Lommel
Lommel is home to the most extensive military cemetery for German personnel from the Second World War located outside of Germany. The 39,102 burials at Kattenbos were relocated here in 1947 by the American Battle Monuments Commission from various sites across Belgium, including Henri-Chapelle in the Liège Province and Tongeren in Belgium Limburg. Of these, 6,221 burials remain unidentified, while 542 pertain to the First World War.
A visit to this cemetery can serve as a poignant and reflective experience. The 16-hectare grounds are meticulously maintained, presenting a stunning spectacle during spring with its flourishing flowers. Entrance features an impressive gatehouse housing an information room and a vaulted crypt, all topped with a crucifix carved from black lava.
15. Polish Military Cemetery
The largest Polish military cemetery in Belgium is also situated in Lommel, conveniently located just off the N71 (Ringlaan) to the south-west of the town. Established in 1946, this cemetery honors Polish personnel who lost their lives during the liberation of Belgium.
Remains from across the country were transferred here, resulting in 257 burials, two of which are marked with a Star of David. Interestingly, the town of Tielt refused to relinquish its burials after the war, as these individuals became a “relic of the city.” Under the principal cross at the far end, stones inscribed with the locations in Belgium where these soldiers perished are displayed. Additionally, a multilingual information panel at the entrance illustrates the path of the War through Belgium during the years 1944-45. A poignant Socialist Realism sculpture by Marian Wnuk (1906-1967) depicts a woman with a laurel wreath, commemorating the sacrifices made by those who fell.
