Cycling through the forests around Helden

The first part of this route takes you through the villages of Koningslust and Maasbree. Both villages are located on sandy soil, surrounded by agricultural areas. In these villages you get an impression of Limburg village life. Just below Koningslust you come through the Vlakbroek, a former swamp that once had an open connection with the Maas. Now you see many butterflies there. Then you cycle into the Boekenderbos, a nature reserve of 234 hectares with forests, agricultural areas and grasslands along the Maas. This forest changes into the Heldense Bossen. These forests consist mainly of coniferous forests that were planted to keep the drifting sand dunes in this area under control. In Panningen you will find the start and end point of this route; Cafe Tinus, a nice place for a bite to eat and a drink.