Hello folks,
Belgium has been blessed with more than 25-degree weather on the last weeks. And while we're struggling to sleep through the heat and the mosquitos biting my husband, we're also hoping it stays like this all summer.
Yet, those who live near Leuven wanting some cool relief from the muggy heat may want to head to the lake of Rotselaar, which belongs to the recreational area called in Dutch Domein Ter Heide. The park is divided into 3 different areas, one very popular for more family-oriented swims, the second for sports like kayaking and windsurfing, and the third area for fishing. With such a variety of activities, I'm sure you will like this place.
Christian and I had a glorious day at the lake last weekend. We've packed our bags with fruit salad, some pastries and a bottle of water and we headed to Rotselaar by bike, it took us around 40 minutes to arrive at our destination. During our way, we've discovered some lovely lanes and historical places, like The Donjon Ter Heyden. Arriving at the lake we had to park in a special area destinated for bikes, in which a boy stamped our hands. After parking we had to show the stamp at the entrance and, because we were by bike, the lady gave us 50% discount, so we had to pay only 2,50 euros each to get into the park. How cool is that?
One of the things I most love about this place is the excellent infrastructure: it has showers, lockers and toilets. Don't get me wrong, I love wild swimming, but some modern conveniences like toilets are pretty much welcome. If you have kids I'm sure you will love to know that they have lifeguards and the water is clean and controlled monthly by the Flemish government. Furthermore, there is next to the park a bar where you can buy some refreshments, which is great just in case your picnic basket gets empty.
As someone who was born and raised in a big town, I really enjoy those country escapes and I do feel more at peace surrounded by nature. Moreover, riding my bike and not depending on a car gives me more freedom and peace of mind. Let's pollute less and enjoy the simple moments of life ;)
Lake's address: Vakenstraat 18. 3110 Rotselaar
Opening hours:
July and August: 10 am - 8 pm (the entrance gate closes at 7h30 pm)
May, June, 1st - 15th of September: open on Wednesday and Friday from 2 pm to 7 pm, and on weekends and public holidays from 10 am to 7 pm.
