Brunssummerheide and surroundings Heerlen

The Brunssummerheide is a hilly area covered with heathland, woods, fens and bogs. Raised moor occurs in the source area; the Brunssummerheide is therefore particularly humid here. In the area, if you come in the summer months, you can see many butterflies fluttering. Due to the high moisture content, many amphibians and reptiles live there: green frogs, grass snakes and sand lizards are no exception. Other animals such as the nightjar and the tree pipit also have a good time among plants such as legwort, white beak rush and clubmoss.

When you start the cycle route, you cycle from the heart of Heerlen in a northerly direction to the Brunssummerheide. After 11.5 kilometers you will come across the Sheepfold. In the spring, the adult Schoonebeker sheep graze on the heath, while the lambs happily frolic around. The sheep prevent the heaths from becoming overgrown with grass, shrubs and forest and thus have the important task of preserving the appearance of the area. The sheepfold offers the herd of 400 animals shelter at night, but during the day you can see the sheep in different places in the landscape.

You cross Hoensbroek and then you see Castle TerWorm looming outside the built-up area on the horizon. Noble families have lived here since the 14th century. At the time, the castle was white in color and therefore stood out on the 1500-hectare estate. The estate promotes culture and nature. Investments have been made in greenery and various interventions have been made to add value to the estate. The current appearance of the complex was created in the 19th century, when the then baron who lived in the complex renovated the castle.

Back in Heerlen you will find De Oliemolen. This water mill from the 16th century did not always press oil from oilseeds: its first function was to full wool. In 1829 the mill received a permit for grinding grain and from 1905 that was the only function the mill had. Wheat is currently still milled on a voluntary basis, with the mill being driven by water power.