Lommelse Sahara in Belgium is sand dune by a lake surrounded by forrest. Perfect for nature lovers, hikers and trail runners. There are several well marked trails. In addition, it is geocaching paradise with over 100 geocaches in the area due to mega event happening here. The highlight is the 30m tall watch tower which will give you nice view on the area.
GETTING THERE
Brussels – 113km (1,5hours)
Antwerp – 78km (1-1,5 hours)
Eindhoven – 33km (0,5-1hours)
There are various places where you can start. The intended start is at De Soeverein, where you find a lot of parking spaces.
Alternatively, you can also park on the Jaagpad parking lot, beside Den Engel restaurant.
This is nice quiet free parking lot. If you have camper, it is possible to park here overnight for free, you just need to be self-sufficient.
TRAIL NAVIGATION
At the trail head there is map available, see picture above. Select the trail and follow the color and shape markings based on the selected trail. All trails are well marked in both directions, you just need to pay attention so you don’t miss a turn.
Some additional information available HERE
TRAIL DETAILS – RED LOOP
The trail is easy to do, there are no real hills or difficult terrain. The majority of the path is on solid ground, sand and gravel, so it might be bit difficult to walk it after heavy rain.
The Lommelse Sahara is truly beautiful area with varied terrain and many sights along the way. Already De Soeverein is interesting building and around are many parks for Lommel’s residents such as swimming pool, massive children playground, sports park, etc. Small part of the trail will take you along outdoor gym, so if you have still energy, you can participate.
Majority of the trail is in woodlands, you will come across some bunkers. In general the municipality did great job in putting information boards along the area to highlight things to see and also animals you can spot at some locations. These boards are however only in Dutch.
The Lommelse Sahara is bird watching paradise and you can find also birdwatchig wall along the lake.
Pass and climb up 30m tall steel Viewing tower of Sahara which is surrounded by lakes. It is worth climbing up it to get amazing views of the whole area. You will see all the lakes around and the woods with occasional town peaking out.
Another interesting point is wavy bridge over the river, perfect for spotting boats and making pictures.
Other details
Geocaching: There are several geocaches and Adventure Labs on the trail. Lommel is hosting annual Mega-event and the area is geocaching paradise.
Dogs: It is possible to do this route with your dog, it must be on the leash. Along the way there is designated fenced area where you can let your dog run unleashed.
FACILITIES
There are some facilities on the trail, especially in de Sovereign area. There is also Den Engel restaurant, but it has very sporadic opening times.
I completed this hike in October 2023 (during Lommel KGB2 mega event – geocaching). It was not busy on the trail.
TIPS FOR OTHER HIKES IN BELGIUM
