Now is the best time to see the purple heather in Central Limburg
Purple heather is blooming more beautifully than ever this year, such as in the nature reserves De Teut and Ten Haagdoornheide in Central Limburg, one of the largest contiguous heathlands in Flanders. All courtesy of the abundant rain in recent months.
From mid-August to mid-September, the heathland is dressed in its familiar purple. It is a treat for the eye as well as the nose, especially this year: now that the erica is bigger, its blooms are brighter purple, more open and the fragrance is more like honey than in past years. But what is the reason for this? It is, in fact, due to the much-cursed soggy autumn, winter and spring of the past year, combined with the wonderfully warm and sunny weeks in August, just before flowering. These conditions have been perfect for replenishing the extremely low groundwater table to the top. Now the roots can absorb the maximum amount of water and the plants will be able to cope normally for the next few years.
Through the 1,500-hectare forest and heathland reserve is a 16-km hiking circuit, mostly on unpaved paths. You will be accompanied by honeybees, bumblebees and other insects attracted by the extra portion of nectar this year. You may also cross paths with the largest flock of heathland sheep in Flanders, the woodlark, the viviparous lizard or the ant lion. Incidentally, humans have nothing to fear from this 'lion', but ants better watch out.
Enjoy the peace and quiet in De Teut and Ten Haagdoornheide – but preferably not all at once.