Name: Hike and New Friends - Lommel Sahara Winter Hike
Start: 2025-12-14T09:00:00+01:00
End: 2025-12-14T19:00:00+01:00
Location: Gare Centrale

■ **Location:** Lommel Sahara (Lommelse Sahara), Flanders
■ **Fee:** 5 € coordination contribution (free for Ambassador and Voyager members)

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_IMPORTANT: To RSVP you will also need to register as a member [here.](https://forms.gle/PsmYJ3vQKocXQCAY6)_

### **Introduction**

Join us for a winter escape into one of Belgium’s most unique landscapes — the **Lommel Sahara**, often called *the only desert of Belgium*. This vast dune area surrounded by pine forest transforms beautifully with each season. In winter, the low light and quiet atmosphere create an almost cinematic mood, perfect for an inspiring hike with an international group.

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### **Cultural or Environmental Angle**

The Lommel Sahara is an example of how industry and nature intertwine in Belgian history. Born from the ecological impact of a former zinc factory, the area shifted from a polluted wasteland to a protected natural reserve. Its dunes, lakes, and forests are today considered one of the most beautiful hiking areas in the country - a reminder of how landscapes evolve through the tensions between human activity and natural regeneration.

Walking through this environment offers a chance to reflect on how societies transform their surroundings, and how communities - like ours - reclaim those spaces for connection and well-being.

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### **Itinerary / Activity Plan**

* **09:00** - Meet at **Brussels Central** for the train to Lommel
* Arrival and start of hike from **House of Nature, Lommel**
* **Hike length:** 11.7 km
* **Duration:** 3 - 4 hours
* Marking: **Red triangles**
* We’ll cross dunes, forests, wooden walkways, and lakeside scenery - with multiple stops for photos, snacks, and conversation
* Optional drink together after the hike in the town center
Expect a day full of good vibes, discovery, and meaningful connections.

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### **How to Get There**

We travel together from **Brussels Central Station**.
Return trains run regularly.
All coordination (carpool, train details, real-time updates) will be shared in the WhatsApp group link posted in the comments section.

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### **Dress Code / What to Bring**

* Warm clothing, scarf, gloves, and a waterproof layer
* Comfortable hiking shoes (essential)
* Water + snacks or light lunch
* Optional: thermos with something warm
* Bring your NMBS ticket or Railcard if you have one

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### **Fee & Membership**

Participation fee: **5 € coordination contribution (Ambassador & Voyager members free)**
Refunds only in case of event cancellation or schedule change.
This activity is for **Sunday Vacations members** (5 €/year membership). Friends and pets are welcome; dogs must be vaccinated.

Yi-Chun LIN

Mukram Khan

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