Experience grand silence at a great height

On Sunday 27 October 2024, you will have the unique opportunity to experience the vast silence of this beautiful nature reserve from the highest platform of the fire and observation tower.

About the fire lookout tower

In 2022, the old fire tower in the Grenspark was replaced by a brand new, safer tower. This imposing tower has a fire watch tower at 30 metres and a visitor platform at 24 metres. Fire tower watchmen keep watch here during fire-prone periods and alert the emergency services at the slightest plume of smoke.

The role of the fire tower guards

The fire tower guards play a crucial role in protecting this fragile nature reserve. They are always alert and use all their senses to detect the first signs of fire. The watchmen sit in complete silence in the tower room, where they spend hours peering over the vast heathland. This silent observation is essential to intervene quickly in case of imminent danger. From this height, the tower watchers have a good overview of the vast heathland.

Reserve your spot

Don't want to miss this unique experience? Then register via this link and reserve your time slot. Places are limited, so be quick!

Practical information

• Date: Sunday 27 October 2024
• Time: 09:00 - 15:00
• Entrance: Free
• Location: Fire and observation tower, Korte Heuvelstraat, 2920 Kalmthout
• Registration: Groups of 10 people start every half-hour at the bottom of the tower. You can register via the Visit Kalmthout ticket system, where you will receive a digital ticket. This ticket gives you access to the highest platform of the tower.
• Accessibility: The fire tower is within walking distance of railway stations Kalmthout and Heide. Parking is available at Visit Kalmthout (Putsesteenweg 131, 2920 Kalmthout), from where a short walk takes you to the fire and observation tower. Bicycle parking is also available here.
• Guidance: The fire tower rangers will provide guidance and give information during your visit.
• Silence experience: Visitors are asked to enter the tower room in silence to feel the experience of the fire tower guards.

For more information on the Day of Silence, visit www.grensparkkalmthoutseheide.com/en/dagvandestilte.

This activity is made possible by Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos and the fire tower volunteers, Visit Kalmthout, IVN Natuureducatie and Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide.