Norbertine Walk
Norbertine Walk
Start
Start: Averbode Abbey
We begin our walk at Averbode Abbey itself, which was founded in 1134 as a ‘double monastery’. Here, men and women lived altogether until the 13th century. The Gothic gate building was built in the 14th century and is the oldest remaining part. This abbey has 55 residents (also known as Norbertines, Witheren or Premonstratensians). 30 of these live and work in the actual abbey. Their daily routine revolves around three communal moments of prayer: morning prayer, the midday Eucharist and evening prayer. Hospitality is important here. The large gate is open to visitors who are interested in a guided tour. You can also spend the night in the abbey's guest accommodation. Then, you are sure to be relaxed when setting off on this walk!
Averbode Heath and Forest
We head towards the ponds through the green Averbode Heath and Forest that is part of a nature area extending across more than 1000 hectares. Here, the Norbertines created small artificial ponds (called ‘wijers’) used for fish farming, storing water or managing nature. Their traditional farming practices, such as ‘plaggen’ (cutting off the topsoil layer, like grass or heath, to use as bedding in stables or to improve farmland), also helped shape the architecture of the landscape here. Then, the owners in the 19th century, the noble de Merode family, turned their attention to woodland management. It is lovely to walk in this diverse landscape of woodland, heath and fens with its dragonflies and water beetles. Can you also spot the rare carnivorous Sundews?
Mariapark and the Lourdes grotto
Now, we cross the abbey once again. Did you know, you can make your own picnic lunch in the abbey shop with delicious abbey bread, abbey cheese, 'peperkoek' (similar to gingerbread) or abbey beer? Then, you can stop and replenish your energy whenever you like in one of the lovely quiet places along the way. Now, we continue through Mariapark. In this religiously themed garden, the traditional annual Catholic celebration of Mary gathers visitors for prayer, music and contemplation. Follow the winding path past impressive life-sized statues portraying the Seven Sorrows of Mary. At the highest point in the park, you reach the Lourdes grotto, once visited by pilgrims.
Weefberg
Our path through Averbode Heath and Forest now meanders gently upwards on an ironstone hill, with its characteristic colours of red, yellow and brown. Weefberg is an ideal place to stop if you are doing the walk with children. The Multimove path guides you along 12 playful elements, inviting you to climb, balance, swing on ropes and lots more. Plus, there is also a play area where it's great fun to build camps. Perhaps it's a good time to try out that delicious lunch of local products?
Insider tip!
Are you doing the walk in August? Then, between nodes 286 and 104 you'll be rewarded with a wonderful view of the lush purple heather!
Finish: Ice-cream vans at Lekdreef
Our walk ends where it began: at Averbode Abbey. And what a reward you will find! Along the car-free Lekdreef you'll find ice-cream vans during the summer months. Then, from a bench in the avenue, enjoy your ice cream in the middle of nature. In Het Moment, the abbey café, you are welcome for a traditional snack and drink. The abbey brewery, cheese cellar and bakery are also all worth a visit.
Finish
