Zoersel Forest and Hooidonk Meadows

Description

We begin our journey at junction 20, near the Boshuisje and the visitor center. The Boshuisje, a former forester's house, was built shortly after 1800. After World War I, it gained fame as the location in Hendrik Conscience's novel 'De Loteling'. Although the loteling itself was not a real person, it is clear that Conscience set his story in the Boshuisje.

The walk goes through the nature reserve Zoerselbos and Hooidonkse Beemden, a delightful piece of nature. One also passes the Zoerselhof.

The Zoerselhof, established in 1790 as an abbot's court of the Cistercians, has had a varied history, including serving as a residence for Antwerp children, a guesthouse, a hotel-restaurant, and eventually as a castle.

More photos: https://photos.app.goo.gl/vyEUA8KsRoWhUzpL8

Happy walking,
Eddy, Rita, and Prinske

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