Things To Do
in Merksplas
Merksplas is a small, quiet municipality in the Belgian province of Antwerp, set in the sandy, lightly forested landscape of the Kempen (Campine) region. The town is known for its agricultural character and the historic Merksplas Kolonie — a former penal agricultural colony whose parkland and architecture still shape the village feel. Merksplas is an easy base for exploring heathlands, forests and nearby lakes, while larger towns such as Turnhout and Mol provide additional cultural and shopping options.
Visitors will find a slow-paced, friendly community that pairs rural outdoor activities with classic Flemish food and regional beers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the quaint streets of Merksplas, where the charming architecture tells the stories of the past. Stop by the local bakery to savor a traditional Belgian breakfast of croissants and coffee. As you wander, take in the beautiful landscapes that surround this historic village.
Visit the Merksplas Castle, a stunning example of 18th-century architecture, where you can enjoy a guided tour that dives into the castle's rich history. Afterward, have lunch at a cozy bistro nearby, sampling local dishes that reflect the region's culinary heritage. Spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding gardens, perfect for a peaceful walk amid blooming flowers.
As the sun sets, head to a local pub for a taste of Belgian beer, where you can relax and mingle with the friendly locals. Enjoy dinner at a traditional restaurant, indulging in classic dishes like stoofvlees (beef stew) paired with fries. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk under the stars, enjoying the serene atmosphere of Merksplas.
Begin the day with a refreshing hike at the nearby nature reserve, where you can immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Belgian countryside. The cool morning air and the sounds of birds will rejuvenate your spirit as you traverse the well-marked trails. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and the local wildlife you may encounter.
After your hike, enjoy a packed lunch at a picturesque spot within the reserve, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle rustle of leaves. Post-lunch, take a leisurely bike ride through the scenic routes that lead you past idyllic farms and quaint hamlets. This afternoon is perfect for discovering the hidden gems of the area, including charming windmills and serene ponds.
For dinner, visit a family-run restaurant that specializes in farm-to-table cuisine, where you can savor seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers. After your meal, take a stroll through the village square, where you may catch a local event or community gathering. End your day with a sweet treat from a local chocolatier, indulging in some of Belgium's finest chocolates.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee (regular) | $2.50-4 |
| 🍺Local beer (glass) | $3-6 |
| 🚆Regional train/bus ticket (one-way) | $3-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural setting with easy access to heathlands and lakes
- Strong local food culture and regional beers
- Good base for cycling and nature activities
- Close to larger towns (Turnhout, Mol) for additional services and entertainment
- Limited nightlife and few high-end dining options within the village
- Public transport is more limited than in cities; a car or bike is often needed
- Fewer tourist services and signage in English in the smallest shops
- Weather can be changeable, especially outside summer months
- "Hallo / Goedendag" - Hello / Good day
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Dank u (wel)" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is ...?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Merksplas
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic red-brick buildings, tree-lined avenues and parkland provide atmospheric shots of heritage architecture and pastoral scenes.
Open fields, sandy tracks and traditional farms at sunrise or golden hour — great for landscape and rural life photography.
Expansive heath, dune-like formations and seasonal blooms create wide, dramatic vistas and wildlife photo opportunities.
Lakeside scenes, sunsets over water and recreational activity shots in summer; also good for long-exposure water photography.
Food in Merksplas
Merksplas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef stew in beer and onions; a Flemish classic to try at brasseries and family restaurants in the area.
Must-Try!
Thick-cut, double-fried fries served in paper cones — available at cafés and takeaway spots in village centres and nearby towns.
Small dairy and baker producers in the Kempen region offer fresh cheeses, boerenkaas and rustic bread at markets and farm shops.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly markets in surrounding towns (e.g., Turnhout) offer seasonal produce, cheeses, baked goods and charcuterie — great for assembling a picnic.
Scattered around the Kempen you’ll find farm shops selling eggs, honey and cheeses; perfect for tasting local products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Merksplas is in the Dutch-speaking (Flemish) part of Belgium; a polite 'Goedendag' or 'Hallo' is appreciated. Many people speak English, but attempting simple Dutch phrases is courteous.
Belgians value politeness and somewhat reserved manners. Use formal address when meeting someone for the first time and rely on a handshake.
Punctuality is expected for appointments and guided tours; be on time for restaurant reservations and activities.
Safety
Tipping in Merksplas
Ensure a smooth experience
Service is usually included on bills in Belgium; rounding up small amounts, leaving 5–10% for exceptional service, or tipping a couple of euros for table service is appreciated but not obligatory.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards (Maestro, Bancontact, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in towns; smaller stalls and farm stands may prefer cash. Contactless and mobile payments are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Temperatures rise, fields and heaths come alive with flowers; excellent for walking and birdwatching. Pack a light waterproof jacket as showers are common.
Warm and pleasant, ideal for cycling, lakeside swimming and outdoor cafés. Expect higher visitor numbers at popular recreation areas and pack sun protection.
Crisp air and colourful foliage make for beautiful hikes and photos; some outdoor cafes close for the season. Rain increases, so waterproof layers and sturdy footwear are recommended.
Chillier and damp, with occasional frost; the region is quiet and attractions are less crowded. Shorter daylight hours mean early starts for outdoor activities; check opening times for local attractions.
Merksplas at Night
Hiking in Merksplas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A large heathland reserve with well-marked trails, dunes and heath; prime for longer walks and seasonal wildflower displays (about 30–40 minutes’ drive).
A varied wetland and heath area near Oud-Turnhout offering easy trails, bird hides and educational paths — good for family outings and birdwatching.
Networked rural paths and signposted walking routes through forests, sand drifts and farmland right around Merksplas — ideal for short or multi-kilometre walks.
Airports
How to reach Merksplas by plane.
The closest regional airport serving domestic and short-haul European flights; about 45–60 minutes by car depending on traffic.
Belgium’s main international airport with extensive connections worldwide; roughly 1–1.5 hours by car or train plus bus from Merksplas.
A low-cost carrier hub within about 1–1.5 hours by car; useful for budget flights from some European cities.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Dutch-speaking Flemings with deep local ties to agriculture and small business.
Merksplas has a mix of young families and an older population typical of rural municipalities, contributing to a community-oriented atmosphere.
Some residents commute to larger towns and cities for work, and there are newcomers attracted by rural living within reach of urban amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is hugely popular for both leisure and sport — the flat Kempen landscape, signed routes and bike-friendly culture make it a regional favorite.
Local amateur football clubs are common meeting points for communities and youth sport development.
Trail running and walking are widespread due to accessible trails, heathlands and quiet roads.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Merksplas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and restaurants (salads, omelettes, vegetable stews, cheese platters). In smaller village eateries you may need to ask for meat-free variations; larger nearby towns offer a better selection of explicitly vegetarian or vegan restaurants.
Vegan choices can be limited in the smallest cafés but are increasingly common in Turnhout and Mol. Carry snacks if you’re heading into rural trails.
Gluten-free options are offered at many establishments but cross-contamination can occur. Communicate your needs in advance (most staff understand English).