Things To Do
in Hulshout
Hulshout is a tranquil Flemish Brabant municipality set in the Kempen region, known for its rural landscapes and quiet villages. The area blends farmland, hedgerows, and small-scale forestry with a few local shops and cafés, creating an authentic Belgian countryside feel. It serves as a peaceful base for day trips to larger towns like Geel and Herentals, while still offering village charm.
Visitors should expect relaxed pace, scenic cycling routes, and warm hospitality in the local eateries.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Hulshout by visiting the impressive St. John the Baptist Church, known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, taking in the traditional Belgian houses and quaint shops. Stop by a local café for a delicious breakfast of freshly baked pastries and coffee.
After lunch, head to the nearby Hulshout's Heritage Museum to learn about the town's rich history and cultural significance. Explore the exhibits showcasing local artifacts and art, and engage with the friendly staff who can provide deeper insights. Spend the afternoon wandering around the picturesque park, perfect for a relaxing walk or a quiet moment by the pond.
As the sun begins to set, treat yourself to dinner at a local brasserie known for its authentic Belgian cuisine. Savor traditional dishes like carbonnade flamande or moules-frites while enjoying the cozy ambiance. After dinner, cap off the evening with a walk through the town square, where you can appreciate the illuminated historic buildings and perhaps stop for a nightcap at a local pub.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before setting off to explore the scenic nature trails surrounding Hulshout. Choose a trail that leads you through lush forests and fields, providing ample opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying the local flora. The fresh morning air and tranquility of the countryside will invigorate your spirit.
After a morning of hiking, find a peaceful spot for a picnic lunch amidst nature, where you can relax and recharge. Continue your explorations by visiting a nearby nature reserve, where you can learn about the ecosystem and spot local wildlife. Capture the beauty of the landscape with your camera, as the afternoon light creates stunning views.
Return to Hulshout and visit a local restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table dishes, celebrating the region's agricultural bounty. Enjoy a leisurely dinner while discussing the day's adventures and making plans for tomorrow's activities. As you finish your meal, enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the small town as the stars begin to twinkle overhead.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏨Hotel/guesthouse per night | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee or cappuccino | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $7-10 |
| 🧭Taxi ride (short distance) | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful countryside and easy day trips
- Genuine Flemish hospitality and cuisine
- Good cycling routes and nature trails
- Accessible by car with short transfers to towns
- Limited nightlife within Hulshout itself
- Smaller town amenities; some services require travel to nearby towns
- Public transport may be less frequent on Sundays
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Alstublieft" - Please/Here you go
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ik begrijp het niet." - I don't understand.
- "Kunt u langs de verkoop?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Hulshout
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden fields, hedgerows, and water features create classic Kempen landscapes—great for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
Traditional stone architecture with soft morning light and rustic details ideal for architectural shots.
Open skies, long views, and farmhouses along quiet lanes provide timeless rural photographs.
Food in Hulshout
Hulshout Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef slowly braised in beer with onions and spices; a Belgian classic found in many village bistros.
Must-Try!
Tender rabbit cooked with prunes and aromatic herbs, a regional comfort dish often featured on seasonal menus.
Creamy chicken and mushroom filling served in pastry shells with fries and vegetables.
Mussels cooked in broth, served with Belgian fries—popular when seafood is in season.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A regional market offering cheese, bread, fruit, vegetables, and seasonal treats; ideal for sampling local specialties.
Seasonal stalls around Hulshout and nearby towns selling fresh dairy, eggs, honey, and baked goods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dutch (Flemish) is spoken; greet with a polite handshake and use 'alstublieft' (please) and 'dank u wel' (thank you) in conversations.
Be punctual and respectful of personal space; keep noise to a reasonable level in residential areas.
Safety
Tipping in Hulshout
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are not always included; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in dining and cafés.
Cash and cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; some small shops may prefer cash for cash-only transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Blossoms, mild temperatures, and longer days; great for hedgerow photography and cycling.
Warm days with occasional rain; ideal for markets, outdoor dining, and long country walks.
Harvest time with colorful foliage and cooler mornings; peaceful countryside scenes and fewer crowds.
Cool and potentially frosty; shorter days but cozy inns and fireplaces make for intimate photography and relaxed visits.
Hulshout at Night
Hiking in Hulshout
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular Kempen landscapes with varied loops through heath, forest, and open fields.
Extensive network of cycling and hiking paths through the Kempen region, ideal for day trips from Hulshout.
Airports
How to reach Hulshout by plane.
Major international gateway about 45-60 minutes by car or train, with connections to Belgium and Europe.
Small regional airport serving several European destinations; convenient for northern Kempen travelers.
Major low-cost and mid-sized European hub in the Netherlands; about 60-90 minutes by car or rail transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority in the area with a mix of families, commuters, and agricultural workers.
A significant portion of residents are families seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle, along with retirees drawn to the countryside.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local pastime; flat to rolling Kempen routes suit all levels.
Community leagues and local clubs are common in the region.
Rural paths and parklands provide scenic routes for runners.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hulshout.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many places offer vegetarian options; ask for vegetable-based dishes or dairy-free adaptations and enjoy salads, soups, and pasta dishes.