Cycling route Kempenland-West and Landgoed De Utrecht
Cycle through a varied landscape of dense forests, open heathlands, tranquil fens, lush stream valleys, rolling farmland and charming Kempen villages.
The Landscape
Kempenland-West lies on the transition from North Brabant to Belgian Limburg and feels remarkably open and unspoiled. Here, vast heathlands and hidden fens alternate with sandy soils, coniferous and deciduous forests, and quiet rural lanes. Lowland streams wind through the landscape, linking it into a mosaic of nature, water and open space. This constant variety brings the route to life, with ever-changing scenery and a deep sense of tranquility.
Landgoed De Utrecht forms a green heart in the Brabantse Kempen, covering around 2,500 hectares. In the late nineteenth century, large-scale heathland reclamation transformed the area into a varied landscape of production forests, arable fields, meadows and nature. The higher sandy grounds were planted with forest, while the lower, wetter zones were developed for agriculture and wet nature. Fens, streams and a remarkable geological monument now shape a landscape rich in both cultural heritage and natural beauty.
Forests and Heaths
Cycle along long avenues through production forests where pines and oaks define the landscape, interspersed with quiet sandy tracks and sheltered woodland edges. Around De Utrecht, broad heathlands open up in wide expanses, turning purple in season and offering the sweeping views that are characteristic of the Kempen.
Polders and Farmlands
Around Hooge Mierde and Esbeek, the route passes open farmland of grasslands, fields and traditional farms that reflect the historic reclaimed landscape. Hedgerows, straight plots and quiet country lanes create a gentle rhythm, where the agricultural setting remains in harmony with the surrounding greenery.
Marshes and Peatlands
Between the higher sandy grounds, wet heathlands and secluded fens are tucked away, with soft banks and herb-rich edges that create a calm, natural atmosphere. Fens such as the Flaes and the Goor add a sense of coolness and quiet, framed by reed beds, bog myrtle and dragonflies hovering above the water.
Rivers and Streams
The Reusel winds as a narrow stream through Landgoed De Utrecht, forming a green valley lined with alders, willows and wet grasslands. Along the way, smaller streams and ditches cross your route, leading you past little bridges and natural bends that define the character of this landscape.
Join our virtual bike tour and experience the journey
Virtual cycling through Kempenland-West and Landgoed De Utrecht lets you experience a quintessential Kempen landscape where forests, heathlands and tranquil fens blend seamlessly. Ride in complete calm along sandy tracks, forest avenues and open fields, with ever-changing views unfolding on the horizon.
At Landgoed De Utrecht, you experience a rich blend of nature and cultural heritage, with stream valleys, hedgerows and farmland shaping the character of the area. Perfect for riding at home on your indoor trainer, as the route guides you step by step through one of the most beautiful parts of the Brabantse Kempen.
Want to learn more about virtual cycling? THIS IS HOW VIRTUAL CYCLING WORKS
Route map and cycling junctions
Start and finish near bike node 96 on the Twisseltsebaan in Hooge Mierde. Because this is a circular route, you can also start at one of the other cycling junctions along the route.
- Distance: 59 kilometres
- Estimated cycling time: 3 hours 59 minutes
- Total elevation gain: 57 metres
- 91% of the route runs on paved roads
- 9% of the route runs on unpaved and semi-paved paths
- Ideal for e-bikes and city bikes
- Along the way, there are several places to stop for coffee, a drink or lunch.
