Donderhei Nature Reserve Lommel

The Donderhei is a sweeping open heathland on the northern edge of Lommel, which together with the neighbouring Lommelse Sahara and Pijnven forms part of a larger continuous nature complex in the Northern Limburg Kempen. The area is managed by Natuurpunt and is characterised by purple-flowering heather in August, old inland dunes and the typical fens of the Kempen. The Donderhei is quieter than the more popular Lommelse Sahara and offers a serene experience of the Limburg heathland.

Accessibility is partial. The starting point from the small car park has a short paved approach. After that the route runs over a semi-paved path of dolomite and gravel sand which is comfortable in dry weather for a wheelchair with larger wheels. Some side paths run over loose heath sand and are not accessible on wheels. The best period for an accessible walk is after several days of dry weather, when the paths are at their most navigable.

The car park has a few spaces, including one accessible space. There is no public toilet on site; accessible facilities can be found at the De Soeverein visitor centre in Lommel. The heath is at its most beautiful during the purple flowering in August, but spring and autumn also give the area a tranquil atmosphere that lends itself perfectly to a short nature break.