The new, multi-day hiking tour runs straight through the nature core of the park and was officially presented on October 12th at the Heuvelse Heide in Lommel. Various stakeholders, including park administrators, forest rangers, hosts, and walking organizations, were present at the launch.
The trail, which can be walked in both directions, is divided into five stages of 17 to 26 kilometers. These connect diverse landscapes such as pine forests, heathlands, sand dunes, fens, and stream valleys, along with stories about the park. Hikers may encounter Bosland's iconic 'Big Five' (wolf, fox, roe deer, eagle owl, wild boar) and 'Magnificent Seven'.
A route map is available for €10 via the Wandelen in Limburg webshop, but the route can also be followed for free thanks to clear signage and available GPX files. The stages connect locations such as Station Lommel, Sport Eksel, In den Brand, Kattenbos, and the Sahara, with points of interest like 'Fietsen door de Bomen' (Cycling through the Trees) and the Lommelse Wateringen.
The Nationaal Park Bosland Trail is a permanent tourist product, distinct from the annual 'BoslandTrail' event. The new route offers opportunities for local entrepreneurs, such as Raf Truyens (Chairman of Nationaal Park Bosland), Bob Nijs (Mayor of Lommel), Jo Brouns (Flemish Minister), and Laura Olaerts (Deputy of Tourism for the Province of Limburg), to offer services like accommodation, luggage transport, and culinary packages.
With a total distance of 101 kilometers, the trail is considered a significant asset for tourism in Limburg, combining nature experience with typical Limburg hospitality.
