Things To Do
in Kalmthout
Kalmthout is a quaint town located in the northern part of Belgium, near the Dutch border. The town is known for its beautiful heathland scenery, including Kalmthoutse Heide, a large nature reserve. Visitors can explore the area on foot or by bike, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and spotting local wildlife.
Kalmthout also has a charming town center with historic buildings, shops, and cafes for visitors to explore.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "Excusez-moi" - Excuse me
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kalmthoutse Heide, a beautiful heathland perfect for hiking. Experience the fresh air and stunning natural landscapes.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the nearby park and then visit the botanical garden. Discover a variety of rare plants and flowers.
Wrap up your day with a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant. Savor traditional Belgian cuisine while reflecting on your day.
Visit the historic Kalmthout Abbey for a glimpse of the local architecture and history. Take time to explore the grounds and learn about its significance.
Head to the local museum to discover more about the area’s culture and history. Engage with interactive exhibits for a fun learning experience.
Take a leisurely stroll through the village streets. Find a cozy café for dessert and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural surroundings and parks for outdoor activities.
- Close proximity to larger cities like Antwerp for additional amenities.
- Strong sense of community and local culture.
- Quiet and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for families and retirees.
- Good public transport connections.
- Limited shopping and dining options compared to larger cities.
- Potentially higher cost of living relative to rural amenities.
- Fewer entertainment and cultural events in the immediate area.
- Limited job opportunities within Kalmthout itself.
- Traffic congestion during peak times when commuting to nearby cities.
Best Activities in Kalmthout
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vast heathland of Kalmthoutse Heide, ideal for hiking and cycling, with beautiful landscapes and diverse flora and fauna.
Visit the Kalmthout Zoo, which offers a chance to see various animal species in a natural setting, along with walking paths and picnic areas.
Take advantage of the well-marked cycling routes in and around Kalmthout, offering scenic views of the countryside and access to nearby attractions.
Visit nearby villages that are bicycle-friendly, allowing for an enjoyable ride through charming streets and local shops.
Enjoy a relaxing picnic at one of the local parks, such as the Grundelpark, which also features playgrounds and walking paths.
Embark on guided nature walks that provide insight into the local ecosystems and wildlife.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kalmthout with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kalmthout
Visit one of these nice places.
A large nature reserve with stunning heathland scenery and beautiful views, offering great photo opportunities.
A botanical garden with a diverse collection of plants and trees, providing picturesque settings for photography.
Vast heathland and woodland area, perfect for capturing the natural beauty of the region.
Food in Kalmthout
Kalmthout Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved Belgian classic featuring mussels steamed in white wine and served with crispy fries. Don't miss trying this dish at De Kip and De Mossel, a charming restaurant known for their excellent preparation of seafood.
Must-Try!
This hearty dish consists of rabbit stewed with prunes, offering a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors. Sample this specialty at De Kasteelhoeve, a traditional Flemish restaurant nestled in the picturesque countryside.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kalmthout better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this vibrant market to discover an array of local produce, artisanal cheeses, freshly baked bread, and handcrafted chocolates. It's a fantastic spot to pick up picnic supplies and engage with friendly vendors who are passionate about their offerings.
This charming food stall is a local favorite for savoring authentic Belgian frites. Topped with a choice of delicious sauces, these golden fries are perfect for enjoying a quick bite while exploring Kalmthout.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kalmthout, as in much of Belgium, being polite and formal is valued. Use appropriate greetings, such as 'Bonjour' or 'Goede dag', and address people using their titles, especially in professional settings.
Being punctual is an important aspect of respectful behavior in Belgium. Whether attending social gatherings or business meetings, make sure to arrive on time to show respect for others' schedules.
Belgians tend to appreciate personal space, so it is best to maintain a comfortable distance during conversations. Avoid standing too close and be mindful of body language to ensure respectful interaction.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kalmthout with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kalmthout
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kalmthout, Belgium, tipping is not obligatory but is appreciated, especially in the hospitality industry. It is common to round up the bill or leave small change as a token of appreciation for good service. For exceptional service, a tip of around 5-10% may be given.
Payment methods in Kalmthout are quite modern and convenient. Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, along with contactless payment options. Cash is still accepted, but its usage has declined. Local markets and smaller businesses might prefer cash transactions, but overall, cashless payments are widely embraced.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kalmthout.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Kalmthout, Belgium. Expect blooming flowers and pleasant weather.
Great time to visit Kalmthout, Belgium. Expect warm weather and vibrant outdoor activities.
Beautiful time to visit Kalmthout, Belgium. Expect colorful foliage and harvest festivals.
Charming time to visit Kalmthout, Belgium. Expect festive markets and picturesque snowscapes.
Kalmthout at Night
Hiking in Kalmthout
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area known for its heathland, forests, and diverse wildlife. It offers various walking trails that range from easy to moderate.
Located near Breda, this forested area features numerous trails and is ideal for hiking and enjoying nature.
This nature reserve has several trails that allow you to explore the unique heathland and enjoy scenic views.
A tranquil area with well-marked trails through picturesque heaths and woodlands, perfect for a leisurely hike.
A serene forest area that offers peaceful walking routes amidst a variety of trees and natural landscapes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kalmthout through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kalmthout by plane.
The largest and busiest airport in Belgium, located approximately 45 km from Kalmthout. It serves as a major international gateway.
A smaller international airport located about 22 km from Kalmthout, serving mostly regional and some international flights.
Situated about 68 km from Kalmthout, this airport primarily serves low-cost carriers and offers flights to various European destinations.
Located approximately 110 km from Kalmthout, it is known for cargo flights but also has passenger services, focusing on international locations.
About 750 km from Kalmthout, it is a lesser-known airport that offers international flights, mainly used for travel to southern Germany and other European destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Kalmthout's population speaks Dutch, which is the official language of the region.
Significant immigrant communities exist, particularly from neighboring countries and regions.
A notable portion of the population consists of seniors, reflecting broader demographic trends in Belgium.
There is a growing youth population, supported by local schools and community programs.
Many families reside in Kalmthout, attracted by its residential areas and local amenities.
The Soul of Kalmthout
Discover the essence of Kalmthout through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in Kalmthout, with various local clubs and community events promoting the game.
Cycling is widely practiced in Kalmthout, both as a sport and a mode of transport, thanks to the town's scenic routes and supportive cycling community.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Kalmthout, with several clubs offering facilities for both recreational and competitive play.
Running has a strong following in Kalmthout, with many residents participating in local races and enjoying the numerous trails in the surrounding areas.
Basketball is played by various age groups in Kalmthout, with local teams and schools engaging in friendly competitions and training.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmthout.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Flemish cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, several restaurants in Kalmthout offer creative vegetarian and vegan dishes. Notable options include 't Dorp, where you can relish flavorful plant-based creations in a welcoming setting.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can look forward to gluten-free selections at restaurants like De Wildertse Duintjes. The chefs are accommodating and willing to adjust dishes to suit dietary requirements, ensuring a gratifying dining experience for all guests.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kalmthout with these cultural adventures.
