© Ben Creemers
Elen hiking area
Although the village of Elen was not officially designated as a starting point for RivierPark Maasvallei, a hiking area was still developed here due to the unique local flora and fauna.
Hiking
In the summer of 2019, the Elerweerd gravel extraction project began, with an estimated 1.5 million tons of gravel and sand extracted per year. This has had a major impact on the landscape, with intensive work ongoing. Once the project is completed, the 230-hectare area will be returned to nature, allowing rugged and dynamic river ecosystems to thrive.
Currently, only two hiking loops are available on-site: the orange loop (8 km) and the yellow loop (7 km). The yellow loop takes you through the De Broeken nature reserve and past Sipernau Castle, which remains inhabited to this day. The orange loop leads you through open agricultural landscapes and the gravel extraction site itself.
Accessibility and parking
Starting point
Parking 7 ‘Kerk Elen’: Bergerkampstraat, 3650 Elen (Dilsen – Stokkem)
Nature along your way
Bichterweerd
Gravel extraction has created beautiful ponds in this area, including Meerheuvel and Bichterweerd. Bichterweerd, in particular, has become a paradise for many wading birds and other species, such as the robin and skylark, attracting birdwatchers from all over the country. You can freely explore this area, as there are no marked trails. A paved winter dike along the area is frequently used by cyclists and hikers, offering beautiful views of the pond and its diverse wildlife, making it ideal for birdwatchers. For a glimpse of what the area has to offer, be sure to check out the Bichterweerd Wander Film.
Next to Bichterweerd is Meerheuvel, where natural drinking water surfaces, creating a reservoir for water collection. This is managed by the Flemish Water Supply Company.
De Broeken
Across the Rijksweg lies another unique nature reserve, “De Broeken”. This name, dating back to the 16th century, refers to the wet, marshy landscape found here. De Broeken is notable for its rich variety of plant life and is home to special bird species like the coot and the cuckoo. A recently built boardwalk and birdwatching hut allow visitors to experience this beautiful nature up close.
