The abbey was the first Cistercian nunnery in the current territory of Belgium.
It possessed an extensive library that included rare 13th-century manuscripts.
The onsite herb garden features over 400 different species of medicinal and culinary plants.
During the French Revolution, the abbey was suppressed and its vast art collection was dispersed across various museums.
The site acts as a gateway to the larger 'De Wijers' area, which is colloquially known as the Land of 1,001 Ponds.
Herkenrode Abbey is a former Cistercian nunnery located on the outskirts of Hasselt, Belgium. Founded in the 12th century, it was once the wealthiest and most influential women's monastery in the Low Countries. Today, the site functions as a heritage and nature park containing remnants of the abbey buildings and a visitor center. The site includes a medicinal herb garden that draws inspiration from the nuns' historical cultivation practices. Visitors can explore the preserved infrastructure, including the 16th-century stables and the grand tithe barn. The abbey is situated within a 100-hectare nature reserve known as De Wijers, which is defined by its numerous ponds. The original church was demolished in the late 18th century, but archival research and archaeological digs have revealed significant foundations. The site serves as a research hub for local history and environmental conservation.
The central courtyard overlooking the preserved brick architecture and the surrounding ponds.
Combine your visit with a bike ride or hike through the surrounding De Wijers nature reserve.
Consult the visitor center displays to understand the layout of the abbey before walking the grounds.
Check the event schedule for seasonal workshops focused on herbalism or local artisanal history.
Do not expect to see a fully intact monastery; most original structures were destroyed or repurposed centuries ago.
Closed on Mondays during the winter season.
Respect the quiet nature of the grounds and stay on marked paths within the herb garden.
