Lommel: from Sahara to sewage farm

The Sahara is situated between the pine forests of the Kempen. Amongst other things, the location enjoys repute amongst wildlife enthusiasts for its rare black swans which can usually be found in the clear blue lake that sits smack dab in the middle of the park. How did things every get this sandy? You will find out during a guided walk. The local zinc factory certainly had a lot to do with it. The desolate landscape was fully replanted however, allowing at least part of the grounds to take on a new lease of life as a natural area.

If you have worked up a bit of a thirst by now, Cambrinus Café is a good place for a break. Owned by nationwide media celebrity Sergio and located in the heart of Lommel, Cambrinus serves prime quality regional beers.

Want to find out more about the Kempen landscape and the people that live here, be sure to visit the Kolonie (the Colony), an archeological and historical regional museum just 8 kilometres from the Sahara. Its name stands in reference to the hamlet known as 'De Kolonie' where the Belgian authorities had a stretch of 230 hectares of heathland converted into fertile sewage fields. The place soon burgeoned into a fully-fledged village including twenty state farms, a church, a presbytery and a school. Sadly, the project ultimately fizzled out. One of the farms that were preserved is now home to the museum. Here, you will learn all about the farming colony, the zinc industry that came later and the sand mining operations in the local area. It even has urns from farmers from the Iron Age on display. During the summer months, Lommel Heritage association frequently stages outdoor events at the site.

The Sahara is just a quarter of an hour by car from Sunparks Kempense Meren. You can park you car at De Soeverein events hall, Sportveldenstraat 10, 3920 Lommel. For active families with older children.