A journey through the mystical High Fens: hiking across borders and through a stunning nature reserve

20/2/2023

HIKE

I went on a hike to the High Fens, a cold and wet part of Belgium that was declared a nature reserve in 1957. It's located in the eastern part of the country and stretches into Germany. The trek was a two-day, 62-kilometre journey from Eupen in Belgium to Monschau in Germany and back.

BY HANAN, 5 minutes read

It was challenging, but the stunning views of the upland area made it worthwhile. I was amazed by the beautiful scenery of the High Fens, which spans across the border of Belgium and Germany.

Stepping into Eastern Belgium: starting my High Fens adventure

I kicked off my adventure in the charming city of Eupen, located near the German border. Eupen is the capital of Eastern Belgium and boasts German as its official language. Know that Belgium has not one, not two, but three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. This rich linguistic diversity is just one of the many things that make Belgium such a unique and fascinating country.

Eupen.

Eupen itself is a gem of a city, with a rich history and charming atmosphere. It's famous for its quaint cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and cozy cafes. Eupen is surrounded by picturesque natural scenery, including the nearby High Fens. It's a wonderful place to explore and a great starting point for any adventure in Eastern Belgium.

A natural oases: finding serinity by Lake Eupen

As I stood by the serene waters of Lake Eupen, an artificial lake located near the city of Eupen in Eastern Belgium, I was amazed by the sheer beauty of the place. The lake was created by a dam that was built on the river Vesdre in 1938. What was once a simple river has been transformed into a stunning lake that has become a popular spot for outdoor activities and relaxation.

Lake Eupen.

It's interesting to note that the area surrounding Lake Eupen is home to a German-speaking population who refer to the river Vesdre as Weser. This is a testament to the rich cultural diversity that can be found in this region of Belgium. Despite the linguistic differences, the people here are united by their love for this stunning natural landscape and the opportunities it provides for recreation and reflection.

Strolling through Monschau: a quaint German town across the Belgian border

On the first day of my journey, I made my way to the charming town of Monschau in Germany. Located just across the border from Belgium, this small traditional town is a popular destination for Belgian and Dutch visitors, and it's not hard to see why. The town is filled with charming cobblestone streets, timber-framed buildings, and colourful flower boxes adorning windowsills.

Monschau.

Monschau is known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. The town has been a hub of activity for centuries, serving as a centre of commerce and trade during the Middle Ages. Today, Monschau is home to a variety of attractions, including a castle that dates back to the 13th century, several museums, and a thriving arts and crafts scene. Whether you're looking to explore the town's history, soak up some culture, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery, Monschau is a destination that is not to be missed.

Into the wild: hiking through the High Fens Nature Reserve

The High Fens is undoubtedly one of the most stunning natural areas in Belgium and it's not hard to see why. This sprawling nature reserve is actually the largest of its kind in Belgium and is situated within the German-Belgian natural park Hohes Venn-Eifel in the Ardennes. As I hiked through the High Fens, with its breathtaking scenery and wide range of flora and fauna, I enjoyed every step I did through this natural wonderland.

High Fens.

One of the most notable features of the area is the Signal de Botrange, the highest point in Belgium, which rises to a height of 694 meters (2,277 feet). With the breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, it's not hard to see why the High Fens is such a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Refueling in nature: taking a break during the hike

After a few hours of hiking, I decided to take a short break and have lunch by a rippling little river. The sound of the water flowing over the rocks was so soothing, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the trees created a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere. I couldn't have picked a better spot to recharge and refuel for the rest of my journey.

High Fens.

One of the things that makes the High Fens so special is the abundance of natural beauty and wildlife that can be found throughout the region. From the rare and unique flora that thrives in the peat bogs and heathlands, to the many species of birds and other animals that call the High Fens home, there is always something new and exciting to discover. As I continued on my journey, I made a mental note to keep my eyes open and my senses tuned to the wonders of this remarkable natural world.

The final stretch: completing my two-day hike through the High Fens

As I reached my final destination after my 62-kilometer hike, I couldn't help but reflect on the many amazing sights and experiences that I had along the way. The High Fens truly is a special place, one that never fails to inspire awe and wonder in those who are fortunate enough to explore it.

Eupen.

As I reflected on my journey, I realised that it was not just the physical challenge of the hike that had left such a strong impression on me. It was the sense of connection that I had felt with the natural world around me, and the realisation that there is so much beauty and wonder to be discovered if we are only willing to seek it out. With this thought in mind, I left the High Fens with a renewed appreciation for the power and majesty of nature, and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to have experienced it in all its glory.

So as I say goodbye to the High Fens and prepare to head back to my everyday life, I do so with a renewed sense of appreciation and wonder for the natural world. And I know that wherever my adventures may take me next, I will always carry with me the memories and lessons learned during my time in this remarkable corner of the world.