Pietersheim at Hoge Kempen National Park

Roam around like royalty as you explore Hoge Kempen National Park’s ruins, forests, valleys and heathland.

Walk in the footsteps of knights and noblemen as you explore the former royal ‘Pietershiem’ estate - it comes with its own medieval castle, naturally. The 12th-century ruins serve as the entry point to the national park, a bit more exciting than your usual visitors centre, eh? From the castle’s tower, you get a panoramic view of the park and courtyard and in the information centre you can learn all about the estate’s exciting past.

A large moat surrounds the castle, leading to the building getting its name - ‘Waterburcht’ - or, unimaginatively, ‘water castle’ in English. You won’t be spending too long here, but it does make for a grand beginning to several scenic walks through the estate. Stroll or hike your way through pine-forest, beech tree-lined avenues, past streams and wet heathland. Pietersheim has 8 signposted hiking loops for you to choose from.

Starting point 1: P2 Pietersheim-Waterburcht, 3620 Lanaken, Belgium

• Green rectangle: This 3.7 km walk begins at the water castle and should take just under an hour. The loop is wheelchair and stroller friendly.
• Blue diamond: This 6.8km walk begins at the castle and should take just under 2 hours.
• Red triangle: This 11.2 km walk begins at the water castle and should take just under 3 hours.

North of the water castle is the starting place La Butte aux Bois. If you’re feeling indulgent after a long walk, treat yourself to a meal at the restaurant of the 5-star Hotel La Butte aux Bois. It’s fancy so you need to reserve ahead of time!

Starting point 2: Paalsteenlaan 90, 3620 Lanaken, Belgium

• Green rectangle: This 4.3 km forest walk should take just over an hour.

• Purple trapezium: This award-winning 11.2 km walk, known for its beautiful views, should take just under 3 hours.

North-west of the water castle is the starting place in Bessemer. Unfortunately this isn’t a 5-star hotel, it's just a gravel car park, but there is an ice-cream parlour right across the street!

Starting point 3: Molenbergstraat 1, 3620 Lanaken, Belgium

• Green rectangle: This 5.6 km heather-filled route should take about an hour and a half.
• Blue diamond: This 6.8 km loop is the same as the one that starts at the castle, but Bessemer is just an alternate entry point.
• Yellow: This 12.5 km trek takes you through the forests of Peitersheim and the heather-filled Ziepbeek valley. It should take just over 3 hours.