About this starting point
Aldeneik gained prominence under the influence of sisters St Harlindis and St Relindis. The 'Nieuw Eycke’ (new oak, or eik in modern Dutch) developed from this 'Oud Eycke’ (old oak) and became the Maaseik (Meuse oak) of the present. The area has a rich cultural history and has retained a few elements from the times of the crutched friars and canons.
However, the area has undergone a significant change as a result of human activities. The Heerenlaakplas lake was created through gravel extraction and later transformed into a recreational area. The historic pastures of Heppeneert are the best preserved river forelands along the Meuse in terms of their terrain and plot layout.
Activities and places to visit
Nature walks
You can view the Meuse during a walk along the Labaerdijk in Maaseik, stroll along the Heerenlaakplas lake, or just enjoy the tranquillity of the best preserved forelands of pilgrimage village Heppeneert. Be transported back to the times of the crutched friars and canons when you visit the historic centres of Maaseik and Aldeneik. This area has many wonderful sights to behold.
Cultural walks
Two walking routes have been laid out in the ‘Aldeneik’ cultural brochure: one in Aldeneik and another in the historic centre of nearby Maaseik. The cultural and historic sites that can be viewed during these two walks are described in this beautiful brochure which is available in German, French, and Dutch.
Accessibility and parking
You can park at the Heerenlaak starting point: Heerenlaakweg, 3680, Aldeneik (Maaseik)
