Abbeys, Lavender and Ponds
The unknown sights of Hasselt explored by bike
It is often the small, little-known cities that have the most spots to explore. Maybe it’s because I didn’t have any expectations of this particular city, that it surprised and stunned me. The ‘capital of taste’ Hasselt, also known for its fashion, is perfect for a bike trip — and that’s exactly how I explored it.
Due to its flat landscape, Belgium is perfect for cycling. The Belgians love their bikes for simply going places, whether it’s running errands or getting to work. Special traffic lanes give cyclists their needed space and alleviate the traffic. For tourists, renting a bike makes exploring Hasselt even a little bit more special. The only factor that might cross bike-trip-plans is Belgium’s weather, which tends to be contrary. However, we were lucky to experience this bike trip under perfect weather conditions — a sunny day in the beginning of autumn.
Following Limburg’s cycle route network
We started our trip at the PXL University Hasselt, where we were introduced nicely by our tour guide Mr. Kenis. We followed part of the cycle route network of Limburg. This network has been a success from its opening in 1995 on and by now consists of 2000 km of bike routes. Most of these are low-traffic or even car free streets, which attract over 2 million bike tourists per year. One of the advantages of the network is that you do not have to follow a strict plan, but you can create your own route. Therefore, it does not matter how much time you have or how fit you are, there will be a fitting route for everyone.
If you’re fascinated by all things water, you’d be rather happy planing a stop next to the Albert Canal, which was our first. The morning sun was reflecting on the water, making it sparkle, almost glitter. With the light wind added to it, it almost gave away the feeling of a sea and made me feel at ease immediately. The Albert Canal runs through Hasselt, connecting Liege to Antwerp, where it ends in the world’s 3rd biggest harbour. Overall, it is about 130 km long and about 3,4 meters deep, allowing container traffic.
Beautiful landscape, beautiful weather
After a short break we went on to discover the green surroundings of Hasselt, which are turning into several different beautiful red and yellow shades, now that it’s autumn. When we cycled through an alley whilst leaves fell from the trees next to us, I felt like I was in a movie. The sun shone through the trees and I felt warmth on my skin, making me smile.
The way up to our next stop, Herkenrode Abbey, was at least as beautiful as the abbey itself. Brownish leaves lay on the grass, in front of us the gorgeous building, above us cloudless, blue sky.
Herkenrode Abbey used to be an abbey for women, however, during the French Revolution in 1797, the abbey was sold, as were other church institutions. I would describe the abbey and its surroundings as a calm place, a spot where someone might find peace and quiet when needed.
The next stop from our route was similarly calm. Especially the scents you will notice there during spring and summer will make you want to stay there forever: Limburg Lavendelhoeve. Even though the plant species does not bloom this time of year, it is still a lovely place to visit. With its own shop and café, I cannot imagine a better place for a little break.
Continuing our tourist press trip, Mr. Kenis guided us along a route that could easily be confused with a path in the forest. This was shortly before we reached our last stop, De Wijers, an area of 1001 ponds. Our tour guide explained to us the variety of different birds that live in this area and we were also able to see some of them.
Hasselt has so much more to offer than just its inner circle. The green surroundings are worth a visit throughout the year and are best explored on a bike trip.
Practical Information:
Hasselt can be easily reached by train. When you get there you’ll find a shop right next to the train station, where you can rent bikes. As Hasselt is a rather small city, you’ll be able to reach all the spots and sights I’ve mentioned and many more.
When it comes to food and shopping, the main street as well as its side streets offer a variety of shops, restaurants and cafes. The scent of waffels is a permanent companion, as there are several waffelshops in the inner circle of Hasselt.
