Welcome to the Sahara of Lommel, a sandy expanse reminiscent of an exotic desert in the heart of Limburg. This unique landscape, born of a singular industrial past, has over the years transformed into a natural sanctuary where undulating dunes meet clear-water ponds. The adventure begins at the Maison de la Nature, a monumental steel gateway, before ascending the “Giant of Bosland,” an observation tower offering an exceptional panorama 30 meters above the ground. But the journey continues, taking you along suspended walkways through the purple heath, enchanted forests, and art trails. Discover this must-visit destination to enjoy sunny days without leaving Belgium.
The spectacular birth of the Lommel Sahara
The origins of this unique desert landscape date back to the early 20th century, when the establishment of a zinc factory blanketed the surrounding area in a fine white dust, gradually suffocating the vegetation. To slow the advance of the sand, a vast pine forest was planted, creating this striking contrast between arid dunes, crystal-clear ponds, and pine forests. Today, nature has reclaimed its place within Bosland National Park, a true wilderness sanctuary with views worthy of the most remote deserts.
The welcome to this sandy realm takes place at the Maison de la Nature, a monumental work by environmental artist Will Beckers. This 50-meter-wide structure, composed of thousands of steel plates, invites visitors to step into the art and join the site’s trails. But to admire the vastness of the Lommel Sahara, you must climb the “Giant of Bosland,” a 30-meter-high observation tower whose design is inspired by the curves of the dunes, revealing a breathtakingpanorama stretching up to 25 km away.
An enchanting getaway in the heart of Bosland
Beyond the dunes, a steel pedestrian bridge spans the canal to connect the Sahara to the Blekerheide. This enchanting heathland, a wild remnant of the Campine, is adorned with shades of blue and violet, offering a sublime palette alongside the golden sand. As they explore this haven of biodiversity, walkers immerse themselves in a more intimate and unspoiled world, where flora and fauna set their own pace under the watchful eye of the red-backed shrike, a winter sentinel perched atop the pine trees.
The experience then takes on a magical quality as you approach the Kattenbos Forest, which offers a 2.2-kilometer artistic and educational walk revealing the life cycle of butterflies through organic sculptures. And to round out this exploration, the edge of the Lommel Sahara promises a refreshing stop, blending wild contemplation with the harmony of art and nature. An unmissable summer paradise just across the Dutch border.
📍Sportveldenstraat 10, 3920 Lommel
