Jewel in the Sand: Exploring the Lommelse Sahara

The Lommelse Sahara is a unique natural feature located in Lommel, Belgium. Despite its name, it's not an actual desert like the Sahara in Africa, but rather a sand dune area and a large lake surrounded by pine forests. 

This area did not arise naturally but was created by human activity. The lake was created by sand extraction between 1920 and 1925. A former zinc factory that occupied the site until 1940 played a significant role in the disappearance of the green vegetation. After the Second World War II, pine trees were planted again so that the vegetation returned. The wells left behind by the sand extraction filled with water, creating this large lake in the middle of the Sahara. 

Today, this 200-hectare sand and dune landscape is a protected nature reserve and has been voted one of the most beautiful places in the region. It offers opportunities for hiking, cycling, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors. There are designated trails and paths that allow visitors to explore the diverse landscape. 

This site serves as a reminder of how human activities can have lasting effects on the environment, both intended and unintended.

Location parking: - Soeverein, Sportveldenstraat 10, Lommel.

                                - Football stadium Lommel SK, Speelpleinstraat 20, Lommel.

                                - De Lossing, Lossingsweg 21, Lommel.

Website: Sahara