Welcome to Xhendremael, Belgium: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Europe
Day 1: Discovering the Village and Surroundings
- Morning: Start your day with a visit to Sint-Truiden Abbey, located just a short drive from Xhendremael. This historic abbey dates back to the 7th century and features stunning Romanesque architecture.
Contact: Sint-Truiden Abbey, Abbey Square 1, 3800 Sint-Truiden | +32 11 68 05 40 - Lunch: Head to Café De Kouter, a cozy eatery offering hearty Belgian dishes like stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables) and homemade soups at affordable prices.
Address: Dorpsstraat 25, 3850 Xhendremael | Average cost: €10-15 per meal - Afternoon: Take a leisurely walk through Hoge Kempen National Park, known for its diverse landscapes, including heathlands, forests, and ponds. Entry is free, making it perfect for budget-conscious travelers.
Website: https://www.hogekempen.be - Evening: Spend the night at Hostel Het Anker, a budget-friendly accommodation option offering dormitory-style rooms starting at €20 per night.
Address: Gasthuisstraat 1, 3800 Sint-Truiden | Website: https://www.hostelhetanker.be
Day 2: Exploring Local Culture and Cuisine
- Morning: Visit Domaine de Chevetogne, a sprawling estate featuring beautiful gardens, a playground, and a small museum showcasing regional history. Admission costs around €8.
Address: Rue du Domaine 1, 5590 Ciney | Website: https://www.domainechevetogne.be - Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch using supplies purchased from Delhaize Supermarket, which offers fresh produce, bread, and snacks at reasonable prices.
Address: Markt 12, 3850 Xhendremael | Estimated cost: €5-10 - Afternoon: Explore Castle of Horst, a 14th-century fortress surrounded by moats and greenery. Guided tours are available for €5.
Address: Kasteeldreef 1, 3800 Sint-Truiden | Website: https://www.kasteelvanhorst.be - Evening: Dine at Taverne 't Voske, a rustic tavern serving classic Belgian fare such as carbonade flamande (beef stew) and frites.
Address: Markt 3, 3850 Xhendremael | Average cost: €12-18 per meal - Night: Stay overnight at Airbnb Cottage Xhendremael, a private room in a countryside home for approximately €30 per night.
Book via Airbnb: https://www.airbnb.com
Day 3: Nature Adventures and Farewell
- Morning: Begin your day with a hike in Bokrijk Open-Air Museum, where you can experience life in historical Flanders while enjoying scenic trails. Entry fee is €10.
Address: Bokrijklaan 1, 3600 Genk | Website: https://www.bokrijk.be - Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Bakkerij Van Riet, a local bakery famous for its freshly baked goods and sandwiches.
Address: Stationsstraat 4, 3850 Xhendremael | Estimated cost: €5-8 - Afternoon: Relax by the water at Pearl Lake, a serene spot ideal for picnics or simply unwinding before departure.
Free access | Address: Waterweg 10, 3850 Xhendremael - Evening: Departure preparations.
Additional Costs That Could Enhance Your Experience
- Rent a bicycle for €15/day to explore the area more freely.
- Book a guided tour of Sint-Truiden Abbey for €10/person.
- Indulge in a tasting session at a local brewery like Brouwerij Huyghe for €20.
- Upgrade your accommodation to a boutique hotel for €60-80/night.