Hasselt in one day

In a small area, Hasselt brings together a surprising range of experiences: one of the largest Japanese gardens in Europe, sprawling nature reserves, modern sports facilities and an indoor theme park for the whole family. This day trip takes you to four accessible gems in and around the Limburg capital, each with plenty of parking and adapted facilities.

Start the morning in the Japanse Tuin Hasselt, the largest Japanese-style garden in Europe. The main paths are paved and wheelchair-accessible; some side paths in gravel can be more challenging. Take time to rest at the pond with the koi carp and the ceremonial tea houses. Then drive to Domein Kiewit, a green family estate with a petting farm, playground and wide walking loops. The central paths around the small castle are paved and level, and there is an adapted toilet in the reception building.

After lunch you can choose between a quieter sporty afternoon at Sporthal Alverberg, with an accessible pool and adapted changing rooms, or an exuberant family outing at Plopsa Indoor Hasselt. This covered theme park has a clear accessibility policy: most attractions are reachable for wheelchair users, and adapted toilets are spread throughout the park. Reserve your accessibility pass in advance via the Plopsa website to avoid waiting times.

Practical tips: plan to drive between stops, since Plopsa Indoor is on the edge of town and the other venues are spread out. The Japanse Tuin and Domein Kiewit have spacious reduced-mobility car parks right next to the entrance. For a lunch break, the cafeterias of Domein Kiewit and Plopsa Indoor are both step-free. Note that the Japanse Tuin is closed in winter.