In a statement issued by the Flemish government last Friday, regional Minister for the Environment Zuhal Demir has unveiled that Bosland in Limburg has officially been recognised as a National Park.
At the end of 2023, four national parks (Bosland, Brabantse Wouden, Hoge Kempen, and Scheldevallei) and five landscape parks in Flanders were recognised by the Flemish government. However, in order for Bosland to be officially added to the list of National Parks in Belgium, the unity of the park and a clear unique selling point had to be specified. Those criteria have now been met, according to Zuhal Demir’s statement.
“Bosland National Park is not only home to wonderful animal species, it is also a great adventure forest for children,” says Demir. “Bosland encompasses a unique natural core of more than 6.500 hectares and offers a lavish enjoyment of surprising nature that is a little different every day in the heart of North Limburg. It is also the home to ‘Cycling through the Trees’.
Thanks to the recognition of Bosland as a National Park, Bosland will now receive 608.000 euros in funding every year. According to Demir, that budget will be used to further develop the grounds by investing in nature development and protection, recreation, tourism and scientific research.
Bosland is in the easternmost province of Flanders, Limburg. More specifically, it is spread over the municipalities of Hechtel-Eksel, Lommel and Pelt. It constitutes the largest Flemish natural massif. According to Bosland, the national park is specifically catered to children by approaching them in a personal way. Exciting treasure hunts, geocaches and adventurous playgrounds are just a few of the child-friendly options located within its borders.
The park’s most famous feature, however, is undoubtedly ‘Cycling through the Trees’. The circular voyage takes cyclists all the way up to the treetops ten metres above ground to enjoy 360-degree views of the forest canopy and nature reserve below. The route offers 700 metres of cycling tracks and was designed by Belgian studios BuroLandschap and De Gregorio & Partners.
Despite its recognition, the agricultural union Boerenbond is contesting Bosland’s new status with the Brabantse Wouden and the Scheldevallei. According to the union, the creation of those parks isn’t supported by any real arguments. According to chairwoman Nele Lijnen, meetings will be organised in order to find a solution that will find common ground between the agricultural industry and Bosland.
