Things To Do
in Ravels
Ravels is a small Belgian municipality in the Antwerp province, tucked into the Kempen countryside. It blends agricultural landscapes with a compact village center where locals gather at markets and cafés. Outdoor lovers will find cycling routes and nature trails nearby, with easy day trips to Turnhout and beyond.
The town offers a relaxed pace and friendly Flemish hospitality, making it a calm base for exploring the wider Kempen region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the church of Saint Peter, an architectural gem that showcases local craftsmanship. Spend your morning wandering through the quaint streets, pausing to admire the traditional Flemish houses. Don’t forget to grab a fresh pastry from a local bakery to fuel your adventure.
In the afternoon, delve into the history of the region at the local museum, where fascinating exhibits tell the story of Ravels from its early days to modern times. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding parks, perfect for a peaceful respite. Find a nearby café to enjoy the local cuisine while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
As the sun sets, make your way to the town square where you can experience the local nightlife. Enjoy a meal at a cozy bistro that offers traditional Belgian dishes, followed by a visit to a nearby pub for some local brews. The evening concludes with a lovely walk under the stars, savoring the serene beauty of Ravels.
Kick off your day with a hike along the picturesque trails that surround Ravels, where lush greenery and serene landscapes await. Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the biodiversity found in this serene environment. Pack a light snack to enjoy along the way as you soak in the natural beauty.
After your hike, head to a nearby lake for some relaxation and the opportunity to engage in water activities like kayaking or fishing. The peaceful surroundings make for a perfect picnic spot, so lay out your blanket and enjoy a leisurely lunch by the water. Watch the locals and wildlife as you recharge for the rest of your day.
As twilight approaches, find a restaurant with a view of the lake to enjoy dinner, where fresh local ingredients highlight the menu. After your meal, take a sunset boat cruise to witness the stunning colors reflecting off the water. The evening's calm enhances the charm of Ravels’ natural beauty, making it a perfect end to the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2-4 |
| 🧀0.5 kg local cheese | $6-10 |
| 🚲1 day bike rental | $12-20 |
| 🧳Entry to local museum or park | $6-14 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming, quiet base with easy access to nature and nearby towns
- Excellent cycling and nature trails in the Kempen
- Friendly locals and authentic Flemish hospitality
- Good value for money and proximity to Antwerp and Turnhout
- Limited nightlife within Ravels itself
- Public transport can be infrequent on Sundays or evenings
- Smaller towns mean fewer high-end dining options nearby
- Weather can be changeable; plan for rain anytime
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedemorgen" - Good morning
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het treinstation?" - Where is the train station?
Places to Visit in Ravels
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque 19th-century façade and a lively square ideal for morning golden light and street-level details.
Quiet back roads, hedgerows, and traditional farm buildings perfect for long-exposure and composition studies.
Woodlands, ponds, and open meadows offering seasonal wildlife and reflective water scenes.
Calm waterways with boat reflections and rural silhouettes, especially during dawn or dusk.
Food in Ravels
Ravels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Beef slowly braised in beer with onions, usually served with fries or bread.
Must-Try!
A rich Flemish beef stew simmered in beer and onions, often accompanied by potatoes or bread.
Steamed mussels served with thick-cut Belgian fries and a basket of bread.
Slow-cooked rabbit with prunes, a regional comfort dish.
Delicate waffles as a dessert option or locally produced cheeses to pair with bread and fruit.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market stalls with fresh produce, cheeses, breads, and homemade treats.
Larger markets offering a broader selection of regional specialties and street food stalls on market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Dag' or 'Goedemiddag'; maintain a polite tone and moderate physical distance; handshake on first meetings.
Punctuality is valued for appointments; avoid loud behavior in public spaces; dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Ravels
Ensure a smooth experience
Gratuities are appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% in restaurants if service is good is common.
Cards (VISA/Mastercard) widely accepted; cash is still common in smaller shops and markets; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming orchards, and active birdlife make it ideal for outdoor walks and easy cycles.
Warm temperatures with occasional showers; long daylight hours make late-evening strolls and terrace meals enjoyable.
Cooler air, colorful foliage, and harvest markets; great for hiking and photography in golden light.
Cool to cold with possible frost; cozy pubs and Christmas markets in nearby towns provide warm attractions.
Ravels at Night
Hiking in Ravels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive network of gentle trails through pine and mixed forests, suitable for all levels.
Accessible loops around woodlands, ponds, and open meadows with birdwatching opportunities.
Scenic rural routes weaving through fields and hedgerows, ideal for a relaxed day hike.
Airports
How to reach Ravels by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic and some international flights; reachable by car or public transport from Ravels within about an hour.
Major international hub with broad connections across Europe and beyond; about 60-90 minutes by car or rail from Ravels.
Dutch regional airport with several European routes; roughly 1.5-2 hours by road or rail via regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families living in quiet neighborhoods and farmlands around Ravels.
Commuters who travel to Turnhout or Antwerp for work; bilingual settings common in the region.
A community rooted in agriculture and local traditions, contributing to the town’s steady pace.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple in Kempen country; prolific bike paths, clubs, and scenic routes.
Local teams and recreational leagues in nearby towns; matches on weekends.
Community courts and clubs across Ravels and neighboring towns.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ravels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian plates or can adapt dishes; look for cheese, mushroom, and vegetable-forward options; inform staff about any dietary restrictions.