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Experience map Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide

Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide

Entry Gates

Visitor Centres & Museums

Walking Routes

Connecting Routes

Points of Interest

Viewpoints & Panoramas

Historical Points of Interest

Activities

Cycling Loops

Mountain Bike Routes

Horseback Riding Trails

Ambassadors

Food & Drinks

Accommodation

Recreation

Care & Well-being

Agriculture

Accessibility

Bus stop

Train station

Bikesharing

Bike repair station

Bike parking

Parking

Off-leash Dog Zone

Accessible by Public Transport

Dogs Allowed (on lead)

Dogs Not Allowed

0-5km

5-10km

>10km

Less Mobile

Starting point Volksabdij

Starting point Ravenhof

Starting point De Vroente

Starting point Hemelrijk

Going out with the kids

Riet De Bakker from Kalmthout won the 2019 poetry contest for the International Day of Silence organized by Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide.The theme of Silence and Nature is beautifully expressed in her poem “kom, wenkt de stilte" (Come, Silence Beckons).

Silence poem Riet De Bakker

De Gerda Hoeve

Ice Cream Farm – Guest Accommodation – Event & Meeting Hall – Farm

This monument, unveiled on October 18, 2019, commemorates the Canadian unit that liberated Essen and marks the unique fact that we have enjoyed over 75 years of peace since then. The monument features an old, half-rusted British reconnaissance armored vehicle (a Humber Scout Car). The steel plates surrounding the wreck protect the memory of the cruelty of war.

The Liberation Monument

Overnight stay in an attic room in a private home – with or without breakfastReservation via <a href=mailto:ingevano@scarlet.be rel="noopener noreferrer">ingevano@scarlet.be</a>

Het Zolderke

Viewing point with bench on the Mier and Mont Noir walking route.

Viewing point with bench

A key feature of this area is the varied elevation, due to its location on the Brabantse Wal.This makes walking or cycling here more active and challenging! You can also expect beautiful forests, heathlands, ponds, and expansive polders. For the little ones, there is a play forest with adventurous play elements, as well as an off-leash dog area for your loyal companion.Currently, there are no food or sanitary facilities available at Entry gate Volksabdij, but hikers and cyclists can use this starting point for the many bike and walking routes that begin here.

Volksabdij

Unwind in the heart of nature, make memories with the whole family, or bring out your most active self with your partner or friends — at Hotel Jerom, disconnecting comes naturally. In this eco-friendly hotel, cosy comfort and sustainability take centre stage. Not formal, but personal. Our team is here to ensure a warm and pleasant stay.Choose an overnight stay and enjoy one of our 20 rooms. Expect Belgian quality linens, ecological luxury soap, and an oasis of modern homeliness. Prefer to come just for breakfast? Absolutely! The buffet features homemade treats, pure ingredients, and the finest coffee and tea.A dream-worthy location, with the Kalmthoutse Heide as our backyard and plenty of fun activities just a stone’s throw away. Book your stay now via our website!

Jerom

Hotel

Your leashed four-legged friend is also very welcome in Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide. It’s a wonderful area for a long walk together. The park offers no fewer than 24 walking routes where leashed dogs are allowed.Would you like to let your dog run freely for a while? That’s possible in one of the designated off-leash zones in and around the park. Please note: even here, your dog must remain under control at all times, and you are required to clean up after your pet.

Dog adventure forest

The Border Park is perfectly accessible by bike. Cycling is sustainable, practical, and fast! At the various entrances and starting points, you’ll find bike racks where you can safely park your bike.

Donkey Republic offers shared bikes you can use to visit the Grenspark. These bikes are available in Essen, Wildert, Kalmthout, Stabroek and Heide. How it works:<ol><li>Download the app: Install the Donkey Republic app on your smartphone and create an account.</li><li>Find and unlock a bike: Use the app to locate a nearby bike. You can unlock the bike directly with your phone, with no membership needed—just pay per ride.</li><li>Ride whenever you want: Whether for a few hours or a whole day, use the bike as long as you need. Rates start from just a few euros per hour. Donkey Republic also offers cost-effective day packages via the app.</li><li>Return: Park the bike at a Donkey Republic location and lock it with the app to end your rental.</li></ol>

Donkey dropzone

Un PEU D'O

Wellness center

Bike pump

Visit the Border Park in a sustainable way. This means you contribute to the conservation of the area. The bus is the ideal way to travel to the park without traffic jams and parking stress.The following numbers stop at this stop:<ul><li>line 105 Ossendrecht – Bergen op Zoom</li><li>line 106 Putte – Bergen op Zoom</li></ul>Would you like to know more about public transport for your visit? Visit the 'Bravo' website via the link below.

Bus stop Antwerpsestraat

lines 105,106

Arboretum Kalmthout – A Botanical Paradise Since 1856 The provincial green domain Arboretum Kalmthout is a magical 13.5-hectare tree garden with over 11,000 plant species from around the world. Every season offers something unique: from winter-blooming witch hazels to the vibrant autumn colors of Japanese maples. In spring, cherry trees, magnolias, and crab apples are in bloom, while summer highlights include the rose garden, the Garden of Sonia, and a fun scavenger hunt for children.Visitors can relax on benches or the café terrace, and enjoy browsing the plant center, gift shop, and bookstore.Arboretum Kalmthout is open every day (except December 25 and January 1) from 10 AM to 5 PM. Free access to the café, gift and book shop, and plant center.Info &amp; tickets for garden visits via <a href=http://www.arboretumkalmthout.be rel="noopener noreferrer">www.arboretumkalmthout.be</a>

Arboretum Kalmthout

Botanical garden

Athena

Naturism

De Greefshoeve

Vacation home

VZW De Rommeshoef

Care and farm campsite

Blue-bikes allow you to explore the Grenspark conveniently and affordably. You’ll find Blue-bikes at the Essen, Kalmthout, and Heide stations.How it works:<ol><li>Register online: Create an account on the Blue-bike website or app.</li><li>Rent a bike: When you arrive at your destination, you can easily rent a bike with your Blue-bike member card or the app.</li><li>Enjoy your ride: The first 24 hours cost just a few euros.</li><li>Return: Bring the bike back to the same station and place it in the Blue-bike parking area.</li></ol>

Blue bike

At <a href=https://www.vvvessen.be/bezoek-de-tasberg rel="noopener noreferrer">De Tasberg</a>, the tourist information office of the municipality of Essen, you can find everything you need for walking, cycling, and more.Walking and cycling information: Pick up the best walking and cycling routes, including the visitor map of the Grenspark.Local food and accommodation: Discover where to stay overnight or enjoy a good meal nearby.Regional products: Visit the shop and buy delicious local products as a souvenir.Opening hours: Tuesday to Saturday: 9:30 AM – 4:00 PM Closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.

Visitor Center De Tasberg

VVV Tourism Essen

At Visit Kalmthout, you can explore the Bee Exhibition "Honingsporen" (Traces of Honey). This exhibition tells the story of the centuries-long relationship between humans and bees.Entrance is through Visit Kalmthout.Groups can book a one-hour guided tour by appointment.Opening Hours*The Bee Exhibition is open on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM.*During school holidays, the exhibition is also open Monday to Friday from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM.

Bee Exhibition Honingsporen

Kiekenhoeve

Restaurant

Stichting Titurel

caring - living - working

The old brick dam used to regulate the water level in the Stappersven. With a crank, it was possible to open a 40 x 40 cm opening at the bottom. However, not much was actually controlled: the water level was set as high as possible because Mr. Carlier was a hunter, and a high water level meant many geese.When Natuurpunt purchased the Stappersven, a new dam was built that allows the water level to be controlled automatically. It is located on the left side of the ditch, 10 metres towards the Stappersven. The dam channels the water under the road into the deep ditch. From there, it flows to Pidpa, which can pump it to the Groote Meer in the Netherlands.

The small dam of the Stappersven

Visit the Border Park in a sustainable way. This means you contribute to the conservation of the area. The bus is the ideal way to travel to the park without traffic jams and parking stress.The following numbers stop at this stop:<ul><li>line X71 Antwerp – Putte</li><li>line 72 Antwerp – Putte</li><li>line 105 Ossendrecht – Bergen op Zoom</li><li>line 106 Putte – Bergen op Zoom</li></ul>Would you like to know more about public transport for your visit? Visit the 'Bravo' website via the link below.Check the route planner for lines X71 and 72 <a href="https://www.delijn.be/en/routeplanner/" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>. Check the route planner for lines 104, 105, and 106 <a href="https://www.bravo.info/public-transport-brabant" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.

Bus stop Moretuslei

lines X71, 72,105,106 Entry gate Ravenhof

Viewing point with boardwalk

De 'Kleine Stapper'

De Zandloper

Visit the Border Park in a sustainable way. This is how you contribute to the conservation of the area. The train is the ideal way to reach the nature reserve. Trains on line S32 run between Puurs, Antwerp and Roosendaal from 6am to 11pm. The Heide, Kijkuit, Kalmthout, Wildert and Essen stations are all within walking or cycling distance of the park. Check the map to see at which station you should disembark, depending on the walk you plan to take.You can also bring your bike on the train. All trains have designated carriages where you can safely place your bike, though a small surcharge applies. Folding bikes, however, can be taken on board free of charge. Would you like to know more about public transport for your visit? Visit the 'SNCB' website via the link below.

Essen station

Entry gate Hemelrijk

The Geldberg (Money mountain) is an artificial hill in the Moretusbos, created on the orders of Count Moretus. Natural hills were dug up using wheelbarrows and shovels to build hills and dikes elsewhere ‘in the right places’ as decorative landscape features. Various stories circulate about the origin of the name. One says that money was once buried here during troubled times, though this has never been proven. Today, the Geldberg mainly stands as a silent witness to the estate’s rich history.At the top of the stairs, you’ll find a bench and a beautiful panoramic view.

Geldberg

Entry gate De Vroente is an excellent place to start your adventure in Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide.Explore the vast heathland and discover special spots such as the fire lookout tower, Putse Moer, and Stappersven.Entry gate De Vroente also offers plenty of opportunities for nature education at De Vroente, the Sustainable Education Center. For practical information and local tips, you can visit Visit Kalmthout, where you’ll also find the Bee Exhibition “Honingsporen,” which tells the story of the centuries-old partnership between humans and bees.Opening Hours <a href="https://www.vlaanderen.be/duurzaam-educatiepunt/de-vroente-duurzaam-educatiepunt" rel="noopener noreferrer">De Vroente, Sustainable Education Centre</a>Weekdays:9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Weekends &amp; public holidays:10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Between autumn and spring break:10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Group visits outside these hours:by appointment Closed:from December 25 to January 1Opening Hours <a href="https://visitkalmthout.be/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit Kalmthout</a>Monday to Friday:10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Saturday &amp; Sunday:10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Note:From October 1 to March 31, Visit Kalmthout closes at 4:00 p.m. instead of 5:00 p.m.Opening Hours <a href="https://bijenexpo.be/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Bee Expo “Honingsporen”</a>Saturday, Sunday &amp; public holidays:10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. During school holidays, the expo is open Monday to Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

De Vroente

In the municipalities of Kalmthout and Essen, you’ll find bike repair stations in various locations. Here, you can perform simple repairs or pump up your tires. These stations are located, among other places, at De Vroente gate and the Kalmthout and Heide train stations. The Essen station also has a bike repair station.

Bike repair point

<a href=https://www.vlaanderen.be/duurzaam-educatiepunt/de-vroente-duurzaam-educatiepunt rel="noopener noreferrer">De Vroente, Duurzaam Educatiepunt</a> is an educational center that promotes and supports learning and training on the environment, nature, and sustainable development. Visit the engaging, interactive exhibition to discover everything about the unique flora and fauna of the nature reserve.Schools are welcome for educational visits.Opening HoursWeekdays: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Weekends &amp; Public Holidays: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM Between Autumn and Spring Break (Heritage and Carnival holidays): 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Group visits outside these hours: by appointmentClosed: December 25 through January 1

Center for Sustainable Education

<a href="https://visitkalmthout.be/" rel="noopener noreferrer">Visit Kalmthout</a> is a dynamic tourist information center for the municipality of Kalmthout. It’s a vibrant crossroads where both residents and (international) visitors can discover the charm of Kalmthout and the unique natural landscapes of this heathland community. Visit Kalmthout works together with various tourism partners in the municipality as well as in the broader tourist regions of Kempen and Flanders.Who is it for?<ul><li>For anyone who wants to discover (more of) Kalmthout The info center is the ideal starting point for visitors spending one or more days in Kalmthout and looking to explore the area around the Kalmthoutse Heide.</li><li>For those already familiar with Kalmthout Visit Kalmthout offers a fresh perspective, combining inspiring tourism experiences with delicious local products.</li><li>For ‘Heikneuters’ (locals) Locals who take pride in their nature and cultural heritage will find Visit Kalmthout a welcoming hub for getting involved in activities in their own community.</li></ul>Opening HoursMonday to Friday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM 1:00 PM – 5:00 PMSaturday &amp; Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PMNote: From October 1st to March 31st, Visit Kalmthout will close at 4 p.m. instead of 5 p.m.

Visit Kalmthout

Tourist Information Office

De Velo

Bus stop Reekesberg

Bunderblok

Mont Noir refers to a piece of land traditionally known as Black Hill. In the 19th century, the Brussels industrialist Mignot bought a pavilion after a World Exhibition and had it transported to his estate, which he named ‘Mont Noir.’ At the same time, he reclaimed the heathland and had a park created with avenues, ponds, columns, and statues. All of this has now disappeared, except for the columns. The fact that three columns are depicted on the purple waymarkers is no coincidence—it’s a fitting reference to the estate of the past.

Mont Noir Estate Ruins

This 10-metre-high observation tower, managed by Natuurpunt, offers sweeping views over the Stappersven, one of the largest heathland pools in Flanders. The tower is a perfect spot for birdwatching.

Observation tower De Stapper

Kijkuit station

We offer two rooms: Erica (up to 4 guests) and Calluna (up to 5 guests), each with a private bathroom.Our Calluna room is equipped with a stairlift. We also work in cooperation with Bielebale and the Tourist Office of the Province of Antwerp to ensure that guests with specific care needs can stay with us while still receiving the necessary support (nurse, physiotherapist, etc. at home).A standard breakfast is included in the price. If you have any allergies or prefer a vegetarian option, please let us know.For prices, see our website: <a href=http://www.heiderust.be rel="noopener noreferrer">www.heiderust.be</a>Welcome to our home and our table!

Heiderust

BeWildert

De Draad, also known as the Death Wire or Death Fence, was a 332-kilometre-long wire barrier erected during World War I along the border between occupied Belgium and neutral the Netherlands. This electrified wire, charged with 2,000 volts, was known as the death wire because touching it was usually fatal. For efficiency, it was stretched in straight lines along the irregular borders, cutting off residents of Essen, Nieuwmoer, and Wildert from Belgium—and thus from family, loved ones, and customers. The Belgian part of Putte was also separated.At this location, you will find a reconstruction of the death wire and an information panel.

'Dodendraad' (Death wire)

De Huzarenberg of 'Trapkesberg' is een zandberg die is aangelegd door Graaf Josephus Moretus.

Huzarenberg

At Entry gate Ravenhof, you’ll find a stately park forest rich in cultural-historical elements, stunning tree-lined avenues with notable trees, and varied landscape elevations.This picturesque part of the Grenspark was designed in the late Baroque style.You can enjoy a bite and a drink at this location.There is a wheelchair-friendly trail available, so visitors with limited mobility can also explore the beautiful park forest.For dog lovers, there is an off-leash dog area.

Ravenhof

Since 1950, a unique collection of carts, wagons, and carriages has grown into the <a href=https://www.karrenmuseum.be/ rel="noopener noreferrer">het Karrenmuseum</a>. Discover the history of non-motorized transport through more than 300 vehicles.Take part in workshops in various traditional workshops, such as:<ul><li>Weaving techniques in the rope-making shop</li><li>Woodworking in the wagon-making workshop</li><li>Annealing metal in the blacksmith’s forge</li></ul>Join one of the many fascinating activities on the program.Opening hours: The Karremuseum is open from February to November. Tuesday to Sunday (including public holidays): 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM.

Karrenmuseum

Museum & Expertise center

Bus stop Putsmolentje

This impressive tower has a fire watch post at 30 metres and a visitor platform at 24 metres. During fire-prone periods, fire watch personnel keep watch here and alert the emergency services at the first sign of smoke.

Fire and observation tower

Staartse Duinen

Campsite & caravan park

De Heusche Bollaert

Pancake restaurant

Dog off-leash zone Wildertse Duintjes

Wildert station

Discover the Bosbar: a temporary open-air bar set in the heart of nature. It’s a unique and atmospheric stop during your visit to the Kalmthoutse Heide. Be surprised by our extensive menu of homemade snacks and drinks, or treat yourself to our artisanal ice cream. Children can have fun in the play jungle. The Bosbar is accessible only to walkers and cyclists and is located along the cycle path in the nature reserve, just 400 metres from the De Vroente car park. Open in summer from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

Bosbar

summerbar

Visit the Border Park in a sustainable way. This means you contribute to the conservation of the area. The bus is the ideal way to travel to the park without traffic jams and parking stress.The following numbers stop at this stop:<ul><li>line 104 Roosendaal – Hoogerheide ,</li><li>line 105 Ossendrecht – Bergen op Zoom</li><li>line 106 Putte – Bergen op Zoom</li></ul>Would you like to know more about public transport for your visit? Visit the 'Bravo' website via the link below.

Bus stop Raadhuisstraat

lines 104,105,106

The Gloriette in the Moretusbos is a small historic building that once served as a tea pavilion for the noble Moretus family. The term “gloriette” generally refers to a small pavilion or open, decorative structure, often placed in a scenic spot to enjoy the view and surroundings.In the case of the Moretusbos, the Gloriette is located on a slight rise along the central lane leading from Ravenhof Castle. Its strategic position offers a wide view over the fields and forests. This panorama was very important in the 18th and 19th centuries, as noble families loved to admire their estates and nature from such spots.The Gloriette is managed by Staatsbosbeheer.

The Gloriëtte

VVV Brabantse Wal is your starting point for exploring Bergen op Zoom and the Brabantse Wal region. Visit this location in the city palace Markiezenhof and get inspired by the VVV staff who know the area inside out. Set off with expert advice – you are warmly welcome!Here you can find:<ul><li>Group packages</li><li>Gift cards (VVV Gift Card, Cinema Voucher, <a href=http://Bol.com rel="noopener noreferrer">Bol.com</a> Gift Card, Podium Gift Card, and Book Voucher)</li><li>Postcards</li><li>Souvenirs from Brabantse Wal and the Netherlands</li><li>Tickets for Theater de Maagd and music venue Gebouw-T</li><li>Local ticket sales</li><li>Corporate gifts</li><li>Leaflets and brochures</li><li>City walking tours</li><li>Public transport information</li><li>Cycling and hiking routes</li></ul>

VVV Brabantse Wal

From here, you have a beautiful view over the Noordpolder and can look out for the pheasant, after which the walking route is named. On the panorama table, you can read more about the Noordpolder and the Brabantse Wal. Natuurmonumenten is the proud manager of the Noordpolder of Ossendrecht. This “wet nature pearl” is part of the National Nature Network, the lifeblood of Dutch nature. Thanks to this network, animals and plants can spread and reproduce more easily.

Panorama table Noordpolder

Bus stop Postbaan

lines 104,105,106 Entry gate Volksabdij

Kalmthout station

Monnikenhoeve – A Versatile Venue Between Port and Heath!Monnikenhoeve is located in the charming harbour village of Berendrecht, overlooking the Port of Antwerp and right next to the Grenspark De Kalmthoutse Heide. This makes it the ideal place for a wide range of activities and gatherings. Our holiday home can accommodate more than 30 guests in 9 bedrooms, each with its own private bathroom.The holiday home features a spacious kitchen, bar, and living area, as well as a terrace and play meadow – something for everyone to enjoy. Monnikenhoeve is also a green meeting venue, hosting events for up to 250 people.With a variety of rooms both large and small, plus an expansive garden, this picturesque estate is where history, nature, and tranquillity come together to create a truly memorable experience.

Monnikenhoeve

Holiday home

(!) The educational part of this trail is in dutch.Danny the Squirrel is the charming mascot of the new nature trail. He guides you along 25 educational panels set up along a varied 3-kilometre route.Along the way, he shares interesting and fun facts about nature in general, about the heathland, the pond, the forest, and all the creatures living there. He also invites you to complete various activities: for example, using two sticks to measure the height of a tree or estimating a tree’s age with the help of a tape measure. You can also create nature art, identify animal footprints, play “crumple-petanque,” or compete in a jumping contest with animals.This trail is designed for children aged 8 to 14. It’s perfect to explore with your children or grandchildren, and also makes for an educational and adventurous outing with a whole class.

Wilderse Duintjes

Nature 'learning' trail

The statue ‘Heldin’ (Heroine) by artist Raf Thys is a tribute to the brave women of World War I. The sculpture was created to highlight the often forgotten role of these women, such as smuggling letters across the death wire.

Statue 'Heldin'

At Stal Westerhof, everything revolves around a love for horses and providing the right guidance for both rider and horse. Whether you dream of dressage, want to jump, or are interested in horsemanship or groundwork, we offer professional riding lessons for all levels.From longe lessons to trail rides, from intensive training sessions to educational courses on horse care and behavior — Stal Westerhof is the place to deepen your knowledge and develop your skills.Our stable is also home to the pony club and riding association De Duinruiters. Weekly group lessons and fun activities are organized regularly.Additionally, you can purchase horse feed from the brand HorSemolen with us.

Stal Westerhof

Everything for horse and wellbeing

Bus stop Bieduinen

Costa Kabrita

Camping

The first inclusive Multimove path in Flanders consists of eight stations and obstacles that challenge children’s motor skills, such as climbing, jumping and landing, pulling and pushing, and rotating. The equipment is designed to be as accessible as possible so that all children, with and without disabilities, can play together.

The inclusive Multimove path

Here, you’ll find yourself in a beautifully furnished and very cosy B&amp;B where you will instantly feel at home.The bedroom has an adjoining private bathroom. In the separate dining area, you’ll find a fridge, microwave, coffee and tea facilities, and tableware.A secluded part of our lovely garden is reserved for guests. Breakfast is delicious, and you can wake up to a symphony of birdsong.This is the perfect place to unwind completely.Welcome.

’t Greefsch Geluck

Ouwerveldezicht

Located on the edge of the Kalmthoutse Heide nature park and almost entirely surrounded by forest, lies the charming border village of Huijbergen. The village owes its existence to the Wilhelmite monastic order, who began cultivating the rugged and hilly area of the Scheldt delta in 1278. The presence of the Wilhelmites, later succeeded by the still active Brothers of Huijbergen, has left a lasting mark on the Huijbergen community to this day. The monastery building, the brothers’ house, the Wilhelmite museum, the park-like surroundings, and even Huize Tijdsat are tangible reminders of their heritage. Their contribution, combined with the village’s beautiful location, has earned Huijbergen the nickname “Pearl of the Southwest Corner.”It will come as no surprise that Huijbergen, given the above, is a popular stopover for nature lovers, walkers, cyclists, and other tourists. Although the village has only about 2,100 inhabitants, it boasts several eateries that turn every visitor into a true gourmet. For overnight stays, Huize Tijdsat is the place to be.We offer 12 guest rooms (3 singles, 8 doubles, and 1 triple), 3 shared bathrooms, a communal kitchen, a dining/living room, a laundry room, 2 outdoor terraces, and parking on site.We warmly welcome you to our beautiful location within walking distance of Huijbergen’s center.

Huize Tijdsat

HVN10

Ravenhof Castle, surrounded by a park and vast forests on the Belgian-Dutch border, has a history dating back to the 14th century. The current castle, built in Neo-Louis XV style, was constructed in the 19th and 20th centuries by the Moretus family.

Ravenhof Castle

De Purperij

Camping Aan de Groene Papegaai, located just outside Hoogerheide and on the edge of the De Kortenhoef nature reserve, offers 57 spacious green pitches with 8-amp electricity (10 amps available at an extra charge). Two of the five fields feature beautiful fishing ponds for recreational anglers. Free Wi-Fi is available, and dogs are welcome.From the campsite, you can directly start the Mouse and Owl walking routes. Several other cycling and hiking trails are also nearby.Starting June 2025, 15 paved motorhome pitches will be available — keep an eye on our website for updates. On-site, you can become an SVR member and benefit from the special SVR rates.

Aan de Groene Papegaai

Camping and motorhome areas

Bus stop Kromme weg

The forest ranger’s cottage is owned by Natuurpunt.The cottage was once inhabited by the Carlier family’s forest ranger, who himself lived in the nearby “De Boterbergen” castle. It was occupied until the end of the last century. It’s a charming spot, but there wasn’t much luxury. The toilet was outside, and there was no electricity. A gas bottle supplied gas through a pipe system not only to the stove but also to the various chandeliers in the cottage—lighting was entirely gas-powered. Two wood stoves heated the house.There was water, though: beneath the road where you are standing runs a large water pipe that connects Pidpa with the port of Antwerp.

Forest ranger’s cottage Natuurpunt

Kempengoud

Bio vegetables & fruit

Discover the Antwerp Kempen with a guide? A great idea! Take your time and explore, in a relaxed way, one of the many villages or nature reserves. From the Grenspark Kalmthoutse Heide to the former vagrants’ colony in Merksplas, you’ll experience both culture and nature.Looking for an outing with family or friends, a team-building activity for your club or company, or a tailor-made tour? Together with you — and in cooperation with various tourist offices and organisations — I’ll create your perfect walk or programme.Get lost in a story. Discover the Antwerp Kempen with a local guide.More info &amp; bookings via <a href=mailto:peter.gids@hotmail.be rel="noopener noreferrer">peter.gids@hotmail.be</a>