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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔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.
Sandy beach, clear water and wide horizons — great for sunrise/sunset shots, reflections and people enjoying water sports.
Historic abbey buildings, cloisters and landscaped grounds offer atmospheric architecture and tranquil compositions.
Woodland paths, moorland and occasional observation points for nature and wildlife photography, especially in autumn.
Street scenes, local cafés, markets and church architecture capture everyday Flemish town life.
Small waterways and tree-lined banks provide peaceful reflections and seasonal color changes.
Food in Mol
Mol Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A slow-cooked beef stew in beer, served with fries or mashed potatoes; widely available at brasseries and traditional restaurants.
Must-Try!
Crispy double-fried fries sold at friteries and cafés around town — pair with mayonnaise or local sauces.
Cheeses, liqueurs and jams produced near Postel Abbey; great to sample at the abbey shop or local delis.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market (check weekly schedule) offering fresh produce, breads, cheeses and occasional street-food stalls — ideal for picnic supplies.
In summer you’ll find kiosks and stalls near the lake serving snacks, ice cream and beverages for beachgoers.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
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.
Be punctual for appointments and tours; being on time is appreciated in both social and business settings.
Dutch (Flemish) is the local language. Many locals speak Dutch and often English; using a few Dutch phrases is appreciated and seen as polite.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas (often evenings and nights) and follow local recycling rules — separate bins are common.
Safety
Tipping in Mol
Ensure a smooth experience
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
Mol at Night
Hiking in Mol
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lakeside trail that loops parts of the De Zilvermeer domain — easy terrain, family-friendly and great for photos.
Woodland and heathland paths near the youth and leisure complex, offering varied routes and birdwatching opportunities.
Marked walks around the abbey and surrounding countryside; combines cultural sights with peaceful nature paths.
Longer regional routes across the Campine’s heath and pine landscapes for day hikes and cycling.
Airports
How to reach Mol by plane.
Approximately 40–50 km away (about 40–60 minutes by car), convenient for regional flights and some European connections.
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.
About 75–100 km away (around 1–1.5 hours by car), useful for low-cost carriers and an alternative for budget travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mol attracts families drawn to recreational facilities, lakes and family-friendly events.
Some residents commute to Antwerp and other regional centers for work, combining town living with city jobs.
A noticeable retiree population enjoys the quiet atmosphere and green spaces.
Predominantly Flemish-speaking locals, with a modest number of international residents and seasonal visitors.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is extremely popular for leisure and sport, with many dedicated cycle paths and quiet country roads.
Local football clubs and amateur leagues are common and well supported in the community.
Swimming, paddleboarding and small boat activities on De Zilvermeer and other lakes are popular in summer.
Forest and heath trails attract runners and walkers year-round.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mol.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
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 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 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.
Staff often understand basic allergy needs, but carry translations for complex allergies and consider packing essentials just in case.