Het Hoeveke (Natuur Puur vzw)

The grounds of a small Belgian naturist association, Natuur Puur, in the heart of the Campine, in the triangle between Westerlo, Diest and Aarschot. It is not a commercial campsite: it is a club with some seventy pitches of 100 m² each, all with electric hookup, where most of the places are taken by members' static caravans. The grounds are hidden from view from the road, surrounded by woods and fields, and the facilities are basic but well kept: toilets and washrooms with hot water, an above-ground pool, wi-fi throughout, and as a clubhouse a large 70 m² tent next to a static caravan. The rhythm is set by the social calendar, a busy one for the size of the place: communal work days in spring and autumn, an opening party in April, bingo, music nights about once a month, a spaghetti dinner, a pétanque tournament with other Belgian naturist clubs and the end-of-season party in September. Outside the parties, guests' accounts mostly speak of peace and quiet and a warm welcome. Worth knowing before you go: to get in you need the card of a naturist association. Those who don't have one can apply to join Natuur Puur, from age 18 and with an application approved by the association; the fee also includes membership of the Belgian and international federations, and the rates distinguish between families and single people, club members and members of other associations. Day visitors and campers are welcome from April to late October, members all year round. There is no rental accommodation; you arrive with a tent, caravan or motorhome. Dogs and cats are allowed if kept on a leash.