Halen Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for traveling to Halen in Belgium. From cultural attractions to natural wonders, we've got you covered!


Introduction to Halen

Located in the beautiful province of Limburg in Flanders, Halen is a charming Belgian town that offers visitors a perfect blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Once a battlefield in 1914 during World War I, it is now a peaceful and idyllic destination that attracts travelers from all over the world.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will share with you some of the best places to visit in Halen as well as tips on where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around. So pack your bags and let’s explore the hidden gems of Halen!

List of Places to Visit in Halen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Halen has a rich history that has left behind a legacy of cultural attractions. Here are some of the must-visit ones:

  • The Battle of Haelen Monument - A 1914 battle monument located in the center of Halen, where Belgian soldiers fought against German invaders.

  • The Halen War Museum - A museum dedicated to the Battle of Haelen, located near the historic battlefield.

  • Castle Hex - A stunning castle built in the 18th century that offers guided tours and stunning gardens.

  • The Parish Church of Saint Peter and Paul - A 15th-century church worth visiting for its beautiful architecture and artworks.

Natural Attractions of Halen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Apart from the historical and cultural places, Halen also boasts of some natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Check out these spots:

  • The Vallée de la Petite Gette Nature Reserve - A nature reserve with a variety of wildlife and hiking trails.

  • Linieland - A recreational park with fun activities like mini-golf, go-karting, and a playground for children.

  • The Halen Bike Loop - A scenic bike route that takes you through the countryside to explore the beautiful surroundings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Halen

Halen is perfect for those looking for some outdoor adventures and scenic activities. With its many hiking and biking trails, you can enjoy the beautiful views of the Belgian countryside. Some of the popular routes to try out include:

  • The Halen Bike Loop - A 45km cycling route that takes you through the beautiful landscapes of Halen, Sint-Truiden, and Diest.

  • The Schulensmeer Trail - A 7.5km trail around the Schulensmeer lake, which offers stunning views of the water and nearby forests.

  • The Hesbania Trail - A 13.5km trail that follows the route of a Roman road and offers beautiful views of the Belgian countryside.

Best Things to Do in Halen: Activities and Tours

Apart from the hiking and biking trails, Halen offers you different activities and tours to enjoy during your stay:

  • ** Castle Hex Gardens Tour** - A guided tour of the stunning Castle Hex gardens and castle.

  • The Halen War Museum Tour - A tour of the museum dedicated to the Battle of Haelen and its history.

  • Halen City Walking Tour - A walking tour that takes you through the city’s historical and cultural landmarks.

Week-Long Itinerary for Halen

Here is a sample itinerary for your week-long stay in Halen:

Day 1: Arrival and city tour Check into your hotel and take a guided walking tour of the city’s historic landmarks.

Day 2: Castle and Garden Tour Explore the beautiful Castle Hex and its stunning gardens.

Day 3: Hiking and Nature Hike through the beautiful Vallée de la Petite Gette Nature Reserve.

Day 4: War Museum Visit the Halen War Museum and learn about the Battle of Haelen.

Day 5: Biking Explore the beautiful countryside on the Halen Bike Loop.

Day 6: Relaxation Take some time to relax at Linieland recreational park.

Day 7: Departure Check-out of your hotel and travel to your next destination.

Food and Drink Scene of Halen

Belgium is known for its delicious cuisine, and Halen is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks you should sample on your visit:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stoemp and sausage - A potato and vegetable mash served with local sausage.

  • Carbonade flamande - A Belgian beef stew made with beer and spices.

  • Speculoos cookies - A Belgian spiced shortcrust biscuit that is typically served with coffee.

Local Beverages

  • Belgian beer - With over 1500 different types of beer, Belgium is the ultimate destination for beer lovers.

  • Jenever - A traditional Belgian gin made with malt and juniper berries.

  • Chokier Coffee - A local coffee drink made with coffee, jenever, and sugar.

Where to Stay in Halen: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Halen offers a variety of accommodation options for travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Hotel Grote Zavel - A beautiful hotel located in the center of Halen with comfortable rooms and friendly staff.

  • B&B Hoeve Ransberg - A cozy bed and breakfast located on a farm with a beautiful garden and a relaxing atmosphere.

  • Hostellerie De Kluis - A luxury guesthouse located in a former abbey offering elegant and spacious rooms.

What to Buy in Halen: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When in Halen, be sure to pick up some local souvenirs and products. Here are some ideas:

  • Belgian chocolate - Chocolate is a Belgian specialty, and Halen offers you plenty of delicious options.

  • Jenever - Bring home a bottle of traditional Belgian gin known as Jenever.

  • Gouden Carolus beer - A Belgian beer brand produced in nearby Mechelen.

Local Culture and Customs of Halen

As with any destination, it’s important to understand and respect the local culture and customs. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Halen:

  • Language - Dutch is the official language in Flanders, but English is widely spoken.

  • Tipping - Tipping is not a common practice in Belgium, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

  • Greeting - A handshake is the common form of greeting in Belgium.

Best Time to Visit Halen

The best time to visit Halen is during the spring and summer months when the weather is mild and pleasant, and the city is in full bloom.

Do’s and Don’ts of Halen

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind during your visit to Halen:

Do:

  • Do try local cuisine and beverages. Belgium is famous for its beer, chocolate, and waffles, so make sure you sample these delicacies during your stay in Halen.

  • Do visit the Halen War Museum Learn about the Battle of Haelen and what made Halen the heart of World War I.

Don’t:

  • Don’t ignore cultural etiquette Understanding and respecting the local customs and etiquette will make your stay in Halen more enjoyable.

  • Don’t forget to pack comfortable shoes and clothing Many of Halen’s attractions are outdoor areas, so be sure to bring comfortable shoes and clothing.

Safety and Health

Halen is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always important to take certain precautions to ensure your safety and health.

Safety in Halen

  • Keep your valuables secure - Like any tourist destination, keep your valuables secure.

  • Be cautious around traffic - Observe traffic rules and cross only on zebra crossings or at designated traffic lights.

Health in Halen

  • Stay hydrated - Carry a water bottle with you when exploring the city.

  • Watch what you eat - Be wary of what you eat. If you have food allergies or intolerances, inform your server, and follow your doctor’s advice.

Getting to Halen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Halen is easily accessible by different modes of transport. Here are some of the best options:

Airports Near Halen

  • Brussels Airport - Brussels Airport is the main international airport in Belgium, located just 58 km away from Halen.

Bus Stations Near Halen

  • Halen Bus Station - Halen has a bus station that connects with different locations in Belgium.

Other Options

  • Train - Halen is connected to the Belgian Railways network, providing easy access to different cities in Belgium.

How to Get Around in Halen

Getting around in Halen is easy. You can explore the city by walking, cycling, or taking public transport. The city has a good network of buses that connect to different areas in Halen.

Where to Go Next from Halen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Halen is a great starting point to explore the nearby cities and towns. Some of the nearby destinations to consider include:

  • Leuven - A beautiful university city with a stunning Gothic-style town hall.

  • Mechelen - A charming city with plenty of historic buildings and parks.

Conclusion

As you can see, Halen has many attractions and activities to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful Belgian town. Plan your trip wisely, and enjoy your stay in Halen!