Things To Do
in Mol

Mol is a pleasant small town in the Campine (Kempen) region of Antwerp province, known for its sandy heathlands, lakes and green recreation areas. The town blends outdoor recreation — notably the popular De Zilvermeer provincial domain — with a relaxed Flemish small-town atmosphere. Mol also hosts cultural highlights such as the historic Postel Abbey in the wider municipality and an active calendar of local events.

It’s a practical base for cycling, swimming and nature walks while still offering cafés, markets and basic urban amenities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café in the heart of Mol, savoring freshly baked pastries and strong Belgian coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the picturesque streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and historical landmarks. Don't forget to visit the Church of St. Peter, where you can appreciate its stunning Gothic design.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, visit the Mol Museum to learn about the local history, culture, and art of the region. Enjoy a delightful lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling traditional Belgian dishes like stoofvlees or waterzooi. After your meal, wander through the charming Beguinage, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and soak in the serene atmosphere.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to a cozy pub for a taste of local beers and enjoy the lively ambiance. Consider joining a guided walking tour that highlights Mol’s rich history and folklore. Finish your evening with a delicious dinner at a restaurant specializing in Flemish cuisine, where you can indulge in regional specialties.

day 2
Nature Walks in the Molse Nete
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation before heading out to the Molse Nete nature reserve. Enjoy a guided nature walk, where you can learn about the diverse flora and fauna while breathing in the fresh air. This tranquil environment is perfect for birdwatching and appreciating the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

afternoon
:

After your morning walk, pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the riverbank, surrounded by nature. Spend your afternoon exploring the various trails that weave through the reserve, allowing you to discover hidden gems such as small ponds and unique plant species. If you're feeling adventurous, consider renting a canoe to paddle along the gentle waters.

evening
:

As evening approaches, return to the town and unwind at a local wine bar, sampling a selection of fine Belgian wines. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers, sharing stories and experiences from your day. For dinner, choose a restaurant that offers a seasonal menu, ensuring you enjoy the freshest ingredients available.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🍽️Three-course meal for two at mid-range restaurant$50-80
Coffee$3-4
🍺Domestic beer (bar)$3-5
🚆Local train or bus ticket (one-way)$2.50-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Access to excellent lakes, forests and outdoor activities (De Zilvermeer, Hoge Rielen).
  • Quiet, relaxed small-town atmosphere with authentic Flemish culture.
  • Good base for cycling and exploring the Kempen region; family-friendly attractions.
  • Proximity to larger cities (Antwerp, Turnhout) for day trips.
  • Limited nightlife and fewer dining options compared with larger cities.
  • Some attractions and services are seasonal (especially lake facilities).
  • Fewer direct international transport links; typically requires transfers from major airports.
  • Public transport frequency can be lower on weekends and evenings.
  • "Hallo / Goedemorgen" - Hello / Good morning
  • "Dank u wel (Dankje)" - Thank you
  • "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Waar is het station?" - Where is the station?
  • "Mag ik de rekening, alstublieft?" - May I have the bill, please?

Places to Visit in Mol

Visit one of these nice places.

De Zilvermeer Beach and Lake

Sandy beach, clear water and wide horizons — great for sunrise/sunset shots, reflections and people enjoying water sports.

Postel Abbey

Historic abbey buildings, cloisters and landscaped grounds offer atmospheric architecture and tranquil compositions.

Hoge Rielen Forests and Trails

Woodland paths, moorland and occasional observation points for nature and wildlife photography, especially in autumn.

Mol Town Centre and Market Square

Street scenes, local cafés, markets and church architecture capture everyday Flemish town life.

Canals and Riverside Walks

Small waterways and tree-lined banks provide peaceful reflections and seasonal color changes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mol

Mol’s food scene reflects typical Flemish and Belgian cuisine: hearty, seasonal, and centered on fresh local produce and excellent beers. Expect classics like stews and fries alongside regional specialties from the Campine area. Small cafés, bakeries and family-run restaurants dominate the dining landscape, with occasional speciality shops and abbey products nearby.

Mol Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stoofvlees / Carbonade Flamande

A slow-cooked beef stew in beer, served with fries or mashed potatoes; widely available at brasseries and traditional restaurants.

Must-Try!

Belgian Fries (Frieten)

Crispy double-fried fries sold at friteries and cafés around town — pair with mayonnaise or local sauces.

Postel Cheese and Abbey Products

Cheeses, liqueurs and jams produced near Postel Abbey; great to sample at the abbey shop or local delis.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mol Weekly Market

Local market (check weekly schedule) offering fresh produce, breads, cheeses and occasional street-food stalls — ideal for picnic supplies.

Seasonal Food Stands at De Zilvermeer

In summer you’ll find kiosks and stalls near the lake serving snacks, ice cream and beverages for beachgoers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Mol has a temperate maritime climate with mild summers (average highs in the low to mid 20s°C) and cool, damp winters (often 0–6°C). Rain is distributed throughout the year, so waterproof gear is advisable. Spring and autumn are transitional with variable weather, making layering important.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A polite handshake is standard when meeting; close acquaintances may exchange light kisses on the cheek (three, alternating) in Flemish culture — wait to follow local cues.

Punctuality

Be punctual for appointments and tours; being on time is appreciated in both social and business settings.

Language Respect

Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. Many locals speak Dutch and often English; using a few Dutch phrases is appreciated and seen as polite.

Quiet Hours and Recycling

Respect quiet hours in residential areas (often evenings and nights) and follow local recycling rules — separate bins are common.

Safety Guide

Safety

Mol is generally safe with low violent crime rates; usual precautions against petty theft apply, especially at crowded events and beaches. When enjoying lakes and forests, follow water-safety rules, heed lifeguard instructions and be aware of potential ticks in woodland areas. Keep emergency numbers handy (112 for emergencies) and carry travel insurance for health or activity-related incidents.

Tipping in Mol

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Service is usually included in restaurant bills; tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.

Payment Methods

Belgium uses the euro. Credit and debit cards (Maestro, Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common. Carry some cash for small vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming heath and woodland; ideal for hikes and cycling before the summer crowds arrive. Expect occasional rain and muddy trails — bring waterproof layers and good footwear.

Summer

Warmest and busiest season, perfect for swimming, beach activities at De Zilvermeer and outdoor festivals. Pack sun protection, swimwear and book accommodations early for weekends.

Autumn

Crisp air and attractive fall colors in the forests and heathland; quieter than summer and excellent for photography and long walks. Layers recommended — mornings can be chilly.

Winter

Cold and often damp with shorter daylight; outdoor activities are still possible but expect fewer services and some attractions closed. Good time for cozy cafés and tasting local beers indoors.

Nightlife Guide

Mol at Night

Mol has a relaxed, small-town nightlife with cozy pubs, local bars and occasional live-music nights or community events. There aren’t large clubs in town; for a bigger night out you can travel to Antwerp or Turnhout. Summer brings lakeside bars and evening events near De Zilvermeer, while local cafés offer a friendly atmosphere year-round.

Hiking in Mol

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

De Zilvermeer Circuit

A lakeside trail that loops parts of the De Zilvermeer domain — easy terrain, family-friendly and great for photos.

Hoge Rielen Trails

Woodland and heathland paths near the youth and leisure complex, offering varied routes and birdwatching opportunities.

Postel Abbey Walks

Marked walks around the abbey and surrounding countryside; combines cultural sights with peaceful nature paths.

Kempen Heath Trails

Longer regional routes across the Campine’s heath and pine landscapes for day hikes and cycling.

Airports

How to reach Mol by plane.

Antwerp International Airport (ANR)

Approximately 40–50 km away (about 40–60 minutes by car), convenient for regional flights and some European connections.

Brussels Airport (BRU)

Main international airport around 80–100 km away (roughly 1–1.5 hours by car or train via Antwerp), best for long-haul and frequent international flights.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN) - Netherlands

About 75–100 km away (around 1–1.5 hours by car), useful for low-cost carriers and an alternative for budget travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Mol’s town center is compact and very walkable; shops, cafés and main sights are within easy walking distance. Many natural sites require short walks from parking areas, and trails around lakes and forests are best explored on foot or by bike. For reaching outlying attractions, a bicycle or car is convenient.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Mol attracts families drawn to recreational facilities, lakes and family-friendly events.

Commuters

Some residents commute to Antwerp and other regional centers for work, combining town living with city jobs.

Retirees

A noticeable retiree population enjoys the quiet atmosphere and green spaces.

Local Flemish Community with Small Expat Presence

Predominantly Flemish-speaking locals, with a modest number of international residents and seasonal visitors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cycling

Cycling is extremely popular for leisure and sport, with many dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads.

Football (Soccer)

Local football clubs and amateur leagues are common and well supported in the community.

Watersports

Swimming, paddleboarding and small boat activities on De Zilvermeer and other lakes are popular in summer.

Running and Trail Walking

Forest and heath trails attract runners and walkers year-round.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Mol itself is usually light outside of peak commuting hours; roads are small and parking is generally available but can fill up at popular outdoor sites in summer weekends. Public transportation includes local buses and a train station connecting to regional lines — trains are a reliable way to reach larger cities. Renting a car or bike is recommended for flexibility to reach natural sites and nearby villages.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mol.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian options are widely available in cafés and larger restaurants (salads, omelettes, vegetarian mains); explicitly ask for 'vegetarisch' if you need meat-free dishes.

Vegan

Vegan choices are growing but still limited in small towns; seek out health-food cafés or plan to prepare snacks from market produce. Mention 'vegan' when ordering.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free bread and pasta are available at some places but not guaranteed; tell servers 'Ik heb een glutenallergie' (I have a gluten allergy) and they will often assist.

Allergies

Staff often understand basic allergy needs, but carry translations for complex allergies and consider packing essentials just in case.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare services, GP practices and pharmacies are available in Mol. For hospital care and specialized services, larger hospitals in nearby towns such as Turnhout and Herentals serve the area. In an emergency call 112. Travelers should carry European Health Insurance Card (EU residents) or ensure adequate travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if necessary.

Discover Belgium

Read more in our Belgium 2025 Travel Guide.

Belgium Travel Guide