Connecterra Hoge Kempen Maasmechelen

Connecterra is the largest gateway to Hoge Kempen National Park, set on the site of a former coal mine in Maasmechelen. The visitor centre tells the story of the transformation from mining site to nature reserve and offers exhibitions, an immersive trail and a viewpoint over the impressive heathland landscape. From Connecterra, several walking and cycling routes set off through the heath, ponds and forests of the national park.

The visitor centre is fully wheelchair friendly with step-free access, spacious lifts and accessible toilets. From Connecterra, a specially designed wheelchair route of about 1.5 kilometres has been laid out over paved and compacted semi-paved paths. Along the way there are rest points with benches and viewing points at wheelchair height. For the more remote routes, a joelette or handbike is available through partners of the park.

Accessible parking spaces are located right by the entrance to the visitor centre. The site is easily reached by car via the E314, and there is also a bus link from Maasmechelen Village. Connecterra is an excellent starting point for an accessible nature experience and combines well with a visit to Maasmechelen Village or the Mining Museum in Beringen.