Things To Do
in Retie

Small weekly markets or market stalls sell bread, cheeses, seasonal produce and sometimes ready-to-eat snacks; an easy way to sample local flavors.

A larger market in Turnhout (short drive) offers a wider selection of street food, pastries and regional products on market days.

A polite hello and handshake is customary. Dutch (Flemish) is the local language; many people speak English, but using a few Dutch phrases is appreciated.

Belgians value punctuality for appointments. Be polite and reserved in initial meetings and queue in an orderly fashion in public places.

Stick to marked trails, close gates behind you, and follow local rules—many areas are protected and private farmland is common.

Belgium has organised recycling schemes. Dispose of waste in designated bins and separate recyclables where indicated.

Service charges are usually included in restaurant bills; rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is common but not obligatory. Small tips for taxi drivers or helpful hotel staff are appreciated.

Cards are widely accepted in shops and restaurants; however, smaller cafés, market stalls and rural vendors may prefer cash. Contactless payment is common; carry some euros for small purchases.

Wildflowers and budding trees brighten the heath and forests; temperatures are mild but variable—bring a light jacket and waterproofs for showers.

Warmest months are great for cycling, picnics and long daylight hours; popular trails can be busier and insects (mosquitoes, ticks) are active—use repellent.

Crisp air and colorful foliage make for beautiful hikes and photographs; temperatures cool quickly in the mornings and evenings—layer up.

Winters are cold and often damp with shorter daylight; some trails can be muddy or frozen, but quiet landscapes and low-season accommodation rates appeal to solitude seekers.

Local circuit routes through the Retie heath and mixed forest — short, varied trails ideal for half-day walks and nature observation.

Large, protected heath and dune landscape with extensive marked trails, boardwalks and seasonal wildflower displays; great for full-day hikes.

Sandy dune landscapes and clear pools provide a different scenery from the Kempen forests; excellent for dramatic photography and varied walking terrain.

Network of ponds and wetlands with short trails and boardwalks, well-suited for birdwatching and leisurely walks.

Smaller regional airport serving some European flights; about an hour’s drive depending on connections — useful for regional arrivals.

Belgium’s main international airport with extensive connections; typically about 60–90 minutes by car from Retie depending on traffic.

A budget-friendly alternative across the Dutch border with regional flights; roughly an hour’s drive from Retie.

Used by many low-cost carriers; longer transfer time but can be a practical budget option.

Long-term residents and families who work locally or commute to nearby towns; form the core of town life.

A noticeable proportion of older adults appreciating the quiet and green surroundings.

People who live in Retie but commute to jobs in Turnhout, Antwerp or across the border in the Netherlands.

Locals associated with agriculture, forestry, equestrian activities, and outdoor recreation in the Kempen.

Vegetarian options are available but limited in very small eateries; larger cafés and restaurants will usually offer a vegetarian main or can adapt dishes. Bring snacks for hikes if you have specialized needs.

Vegan and strict gluten-free choices are less common in village restaurants; seek out larger towns (Turnhout, Antwerp) for dedicated cafés and clearer labelling. Communicate restrictions in Dutch or English and consider carrying basics.