In Border Park Kalmthoutse Heide, it's still possible. Spend a whole day wandering and enjoying nature without encountering a lamppost or building. This challenging but beautiful long-distance hike, named Ree, takes you for 6 to 7 hours along the Belgian-Dutch border, crossing all the biotopes of the Border Park. You wander through forests, pass open drifting sands, and traverse an endless heathland. Experience the tranquility around the Bronven, the rustling of the trees at Stappersven, and the enchanting Kriekelare Dunes.
Vennen and dunes
The long-distance walk takes you far away from daily concerns and lets you get lost in the beauty of nature. Around the Bronven, there are a few beautiful solitary trees. The place invites you to pause and soak in the tranquility. Dragonflies and damselflies feel perfectly at home here by the water.
Another fen is the Stappersven, one of the largest heath fens in Flanders. Humans have created an open landscape in the Stappersven and given the heath free rein. By digging up peat, large fens were formed. Around the open and semi-open landscapes with heath fens, you will find both oak-birch forests and Scots pine forests. But also shifting sands, dry and wet heath, depleted marshes, and grassy rough patches with moor grass. This provides stunning vistas where you discover something new each time.
Good preparation is half the battle
The journey takes you through the most beautiful quiet areas in the Border Park, away from all the hustle and bustle. Only sheep might disturb your peace; they keep the areas clear of trees so that the heath has space to grow. You won't find any food outlets along the way. Bring food and drinks with you. Leave your dog at home, as dogs are not allowed on this route.
Ready to start?
This route has three starting points. From where do you dive into the silence?
- Starting point Parking North: Verbindingsstraat – Kalmthoutse Hoek (B)
- Starting point Staartse Heide: Staartsestraat 57, 4635 RC Huijbergen, Netherlands
- Starting point Kortenhoeff: Groene Papegaai 19 – 4631 RX Hoogerheide, Netherlands
Overnight Stay with the Host
Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide has several hosts. These ambassadors of the area are happy to share their knowledge with you. Let yourself be surprised by countless facts about nature, the landscape, cultural history, and recreational opportunities. You can also spend the night here!
Trail Running on the Route
Jos is a trail runner and regularly practices on the Ree route. In this video, Jos shares how he still enjoys the silence and nature every time, through all the seasons.