‘Abdijhoeve’ is the Dutch translation for abbey farm. This particular farm is situated in nature domain and recreation park ‘Kelchterhoef’. The complex is almost 2500m2 and is known for its rich history and green surroundings. Here’s a quick glimpse at its history!
A TASTE OF HISTORY
“A GIFT FROM THE PAST FOR THE PEOPLE OF TODAY.”
‘Abdijhoeve’ finds its roots in the 12th or 13th century. Baron Moreau De Bellaing later removed its west wing in 1851. This new, open character made passers-by curious! In 1954 the domain fell into the hands of the town of Houthalen. About 15 years later, it first took on the function of restaurant. Hooray!
“SOOT IN THE FOOD”
A heavy fire in 1981 got soot in the food. The abbey farm had to be rebuilt. Fortunately, the location would soon rise from the ashes! A new spark of popularity ignited for the large banquet hall. How incredibly luxurious these wedding parties were!
“30 YEARS OF HOSPITALITY”
Over the past thirty years, two generations of the Withofs family waited on tourists who visited the abbey farm by bike or while hiking through the park. This convenient pitstop was well-known for its coffee, traditional pies, Belgian lager and daily specials. Regular customers regretted the end of this happy era. Especially since there was no immediate prospect of a take-over.
“SAVE WHAT WAS AND MAKE IT NEW”
The town of Houthalen-Helchteren was on the look-out for a young-minded candidate who would respect the heritage and would give it a modern twist. For this grand project, a colab between a tavern/ restaurant, a party location and a microbrewery proved to be the best solution! Their shared mission? Transforming history together!
“RENEWED, YET FAMILIAR.”
The experienced hand of Dim’s interior breathed new life into ‘Abdijhoeve’ and renovated it into a social hotspot. Since ’21 the tavern/ restaurant/ private party location is run by local entrepreneur Patrick Pollers, taste fanatic Sander Vaes and their passionate team. The neighbors of ‘Cache Coeur’ focus on the large-scale events. The microbrewery isn’t in place yet, but hopefully we’ll soon raise our glass to its opening!