Things To Do
in Kalmthout
Kalmthout is a quiet Flemish municipality on the Belgian–Dutch border, best known for the Kalmthoutse Heide nature reserve and a century-old arboretum. Its landscape alternates between heathland, pine forests and small agricultural villages, giving it a rural, restorative atmosphere while remaining within easy reach of Antwerp. The town is popular with hikers, birdwatchers and families seeking outdoor recreation, and it supports a modest local cultural life with cafés, bakeries and weekly markets.
Visitors appreciate Kalmthout for its accessible trails, botanical collections and relaxed pace compared with nearby urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Kalmthoutse Heide nature reserve, a vast heathland perfect for morning walks. Watch the sunrise as you stroll along the well-marked trails, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the sounds of nature awakening. Stop by the visitor center to learn about the unique flora and fauna of this beautiful area.
After a refreshing morning, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the scenic views of the heath. Spend your afternoon exploring the numerous walking and cycling paths that wind through the reserve, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as deer and various bird species. As the sun begins to rise higher, take a moment to relax in one of the many tranquil spots and soak in the beauty around you.
As dusk approaches, return to Kalmthout village and have dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Belgian dishes. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the village, enjoying the charming architecture and the warm glow of street lamps. Cap off the evening with a visit to a nearby café, where you can indulge in some famous Belgian chocolate or a local beer.
Start your day at the Kalmthout Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region. Explore the fascinating exhibits that showcase the local heritage, including artifacts from the past and contemporary art pieces. Engage with friendly staff who are eager to share stories and insights about Kalmthout’s evolution over the years.
After your museum visit, wander the charming streets of Kalmthout, stopping by local shops and boutiques that sell handmade crafts and delicacies. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café, opting for a traditional Belgian waffle for dessert to satisfy your sweet tooth. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Kalmthout Abbey, a peaceful retreat where you can enjoy the serene surroundings and perhaps even participate in a guided tour.
As the evening sets in, head to a cozy restaurant to savor some authentic Belgian cuisine, such as mussels or carbonnade flamande. The ambiance is warm and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day of cultural exploration. To conclude your night, enjoy a stroll back to your accommodation, taking in the peaceful atmosphere of Kalmthout under the stars.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕️Coffee | $3-4 |
| 🚆Regional train ticket (one-way to Antwerp) | $3-8 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $4-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $80-130 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Easy access to extensive nature reserve (Kalmthoutse Heide)
- Quiet, restorative atmosphere close to Antwerp and the Netherlands
- Good walking and cycling infrastructure and family-friendly trails
- High-quality local produce and traditional Flemish food
- Limited nightlife and cultural attractions within the town itself
- Public transport is good but less frequent late at night or on weekends
- Fewer dining and shopping options than nearby Antwerp
- Weather can be changeable; trails get muddy after rain
- "Hallo / Goede dag" - Hello / Good day
- "Dank u wel / Dank je" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft / Alsjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het natuurcentrum?" - Where is the visitor/nature center?
Places to Visit in Kalmthout
Visit one of these nice places.
Expansive heathland with purple heather in late summer, open vistas, sand drifts and boardwalks that provide dramatic landscape and wildlife photo opportunities at sunrise and sunset.
Well-curated tree collections, rhododendron displays (peak in spring) and intimate garden scenes ideal for detail shots and botanical photography.
Picturesque streets, traditional Flemish houses and the Sint-Antonius church offer charming architectural and street-scene compositions.
Calm water reflections, reed beds and birdlife provide excellent opportunities for nature and wildlife photography, especially in low light.
Food in Kalmthout
Kalmthout Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A creamy Flemish stew often made with chicken or fish; comforting and widely available in local brasseries. Try it in family-run restaurants for a homestyle version.
Must-Try!
Slow-cooked beef in a rich beer-based sauce served with fries or mashed potatoes — a regional classic best sampled at traditional eateries.
Crispy double-fried chips served from snacks and friteries; a quick and beloved street-food staple to enjoy while exploring.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market (check local listings for days) with fresh produce, cheeses, breads and prepared snacks — a great place to sample local specialties and buy picnic supplies for the heath.
If you take a short trip to Antwerp, markets like the Vrijdagmarkt and Saturday markets offer seafood, international street food and artisanal products.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Kalmthout is Dutch-speaking (Flemish). Greet shopkeepers and locals with a polite 'goede dag' or 'hallo'; a handshake is standard for introductions. Attempting a few words in Dutch is appreciated.
Stay on marked trails in nature reserves, keep dogs on leashes where required, and follow signs—Kalmthoutse Heide is a protected area with rules to conserve habitats.
Belgians tend to value punctuality and polite manners; be on time for appointments and modest in public behaviour.
Safety
Tipping in Kalmthout
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are often included in restaurant bills; leaving 5–10% for good service or simply rounding up is appreciated but not obligatory. Tipping bartenders and taxi drivers a small amount or rounding up is common.
Belgium uses the euro. Cards (Visa, Mastercard) and contactless payments are widely accepted, as is Bancontact for local bank cards. Carry some cash for small kiosks, market stalls and remote locations.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
April–May brings rhododendrons and new growth in the Arboretum; temperatures are mild but changeable, with occasional rainy days. Bird activity increases—good for nature watching—and trails can be muddy after rain.
Warm, pleasant weather ideal for hiking, cycling and picnics; heathland may be dry and the purple heather bloom often peaks in late summer. Expect more visitors on weekends and pack sun protection and water.
Crisp air and colourful foliage make for atmospheric walks; some facilities may reduce hours as visitor numbers decline. Mornings can be foggy, creating excellent photographic moods.
Cold and quieter with short daylight hours; trails are less crowded but can be muddy or frosty. Snow is possible but not guaranteed—dress warmly and check opening hours of local attractions.
Kalmthout at Night
Hiking in Kalmthout
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The primary and most extensive trail system, with loops ranging from short walks to full-day hikes across heath, sand drifts and forested areas—excellent signage and visitor centers guide route choices.
Short, well-maintained trails within the Arboretum Kalmthout ideal for botanical walks, spring rhododendron displays and accessible routes for families.
A series of connecting paths and cycle routes that link Kalmthout with neighbouring Dutch and Belgian villages, offering longer-distance walks through varied farmland and small woods.
Airports
How to reach Kalmthout by plane.
Small regional airport about 25–35 km away; convenient for short flights and some European connections. Ground transport options include taxi and regional trains/buses via Antwerp.
Main international gateway to Belgium, about 45–60 minutes by car or train depending on connections; frequent international flights and good rail links to Antwerp and then on to Kalmthout.
Located in the Netherlands (~1–1.5 hours by car), useful for low-cost carriers; reachable by car or regional bus/train combinations.
Another regional Dutch airport within reasonable driving distance; serves selected European destinations and is an option if flying low-cost carriers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority of inhabitants are Dutch-speaking Flemish families and older residents who have lived in the area for generations.
A significant portion of the population commutes to Antwerp or across the border to the Netherlands for work, creating a community of professionals and families.
Limited but present expat and cross-border residents attracted by proximity to Antwerp and international companies; English is commonly understood.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cycling is extremely popular—both recreational and commuting—supported by cycle paths and scenic rural routes that attract riders of all levels.
Local amateur football clubs are common and community-supported, reflecting Belgium’s enthusiasm for the sport.
The heathland trails are popular with runners and trail runners, particularly in the cooler months and on weekends.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kalmthout.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian choices are increasingly common: many cafés and restaurants offer vegetable stews, salads and cheese-based dishes. Mention dietary needs when ordering and look for vegetable-forward daily specials.
Vegan options exist but are less ubiquitous in small towns; plan ahead by checking menus online or visiting Antwerp for a wider vegan scene. Supermarkets carry plant-based staples if you need to self-cater.
Ask staff about gluten-free options — awareness is good in Belgium, but cross-contamination can occur in bakeries and snack shops. Many restaurants will adapt dishes on request.