Hasseltbos

Hasseltbos is a compact but ecologically rich forest in the municipality of Geraardsbergen, in the Flemish Ardennes region of Belgium, situated within the sub-municipality of Ophasselt. Covering roughly 25 hectares, it lies on the valley slope of the Parkbosbeek stream, on the western flank of the 77-metre Gapenberg hill — right in the middle of the rolling hill landscape that defines this part of southeastern Flanders.

Where does the name come from and what is the forest's history?

Hasseltbos is a surviving fragment of the much larger Kolenwoud, one of the historical forests that once stretched across the ridge slopes of the Pajottenland and the Flemish Ardennes. Old maps trace how its boundaries shifted over time: on the Ferraris cabinet map from the 1770s the forest was still confined to the Parkbosbeek valley itself, while the Vandermaelen map of 1854 already shows it extending further east. Today the site is jointly managed by the Flemish government's Agency for Nature and Forests (Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos) together with private landowners.

What plants and wildlife live here?

Hasseltbos is a classic beech forest, with some individual trees estimated to be up to 150 years old. The terrain is varied, combining mature beech and oak stands with wet grasslands and marshy alder woodland fed by numerous springs. It's precisely this spring-fed character that gives the forest its exceptional spring bloom: wood anemone, wild hyacinth (also known as bluebell), and toothwort carpet the forest floor, making it one of the more spectacular displays of woodland flora in the region during that season.

The animal life is just as rewarding for nature watchers. Buzzards and sparrowhawks can be seen circling above the canopy, while typical woodland birds such as the nuthatch and the short-toed treecreeper share the forest with several woodpecker species. Rabbits and foxes are among the resident mammals, and butterfly enthusiasts keep an eye out for brown-toned woodland species that favour this kind of mixed, semi-shaded habitat.

What protected status does the site have?

Hasseltbos forms part of the European Natura 2000 network, within the broader designated area covering the forests of the Flemish Ardennes and other South Flemish woodlands. It is also included in the Flemish Ecological Network (Vlaams Ecologisch Netwerk), reflecting its role in preserving regional biodiversity. The forest directly borders the Parkbos-Uilenbroek nature reserve, managed by the conservation organisation Natuurpunt, together forming a larger, connected natural area.

Can you walk through it?

Yes — a signposted 3.4-kilometre walking trail runs through Hasseltbos, taking visitors past its mature beech stands, marshy alder groves, and open sections of wet grassland. It's a good option for anyone looking for a quiet, low-key encounter with the nature of the Flemish Ardennes, away from the crowds found at the region's better-known attractions.

Frequently asked questions

How large is Hasseltbos? The forest covers approximately 25 hectares.

Where exactly is it located? In the municipality of Geraardsbergen, within the sub-municipality of Ophasselt, in the province of East Flanders, Belgium.

Is there a marked trail? Yes, a signposted walking route of 3.4 km runs through the forest.

What's the best time of year to visit? Spring, when the forest floor is at its most colourful with wood anemone and wild hyacinth in bloom.