North Limburg Nature Route

Dune Belt, Terhills & Bergerven

During this varied loop, you will discover the northern side of Hoge Kempen National Park. The route effortlessly alternates between forests, water landscapes, and an impressive mining past. You start and finish at Camping Kikmolen, at junction 61, and cycle via quiet paths gradually towards the greener, wilder landscape in the north.

One of the first highlights is the Dune Belt area. This is a surprising mix of forests and sandy ridges, making the landscape feel almost dune-like in places. The route continues along forest paths, stream valleys, and open meadows. Peaceful, refreshing, and ideal for a relaxed cycle.

A lovely stopover is As Station on the Coal Railway, where the atmosphere of the old railway line is still palpable. Colourful train carriages and creative touches often make the place feel like a small open-air gallery. From here, you cycle towards Terhills, where the landscape suddenly takes on a more impressive character.

The iconic floating bridge of Cycling Between the Mining Dumps takes you across the water, between the twin-dump and the panoramic-dump. It's one of the most unique cycling experiences in Limburg. If you have some extra time, the former mining site is also worth a stop. Climb a viewpoint and enjoy the grandeur of the landscape.

The atmosphere changes again as you follow the Zuid-Willemsvaart canal towards Bergerven. This is a tranquil gem with wide expanses of water and open space, where wild grazing animals are often part of the view. Finally, you follow the gentle course of the Bosbeek stream through shady wooded areas before returning to Camping Kikmolen. You end the day with the feeling that you have discovered a very diverse part of Limburg in a single bike ride.