Vierlingsbeek, Maashees and Overloon

On an elongated, high sandy ridge between the Meuse and the German border, there are relatively young conifers and heather plants, which were planted on what was once drifting sand. As a result, the sand no longer drifts, but this sand has largely determined the appearance of the area; National Park"De Maasduinen\\\" is a terraced landscape consisting of lower and higher sandy soils, the Maas valley and a plateau. The estate"de Hamert\\\", as the area was called until 1998, forms the heart of the forest and heathlands that cover approximately 45 hectares. The forests are kept young in a natural way: Galloway cattle, sheep and goats are used to prevent the area from becoming overgrown. Until the beginning of the twentieth century, the area around Overloon consisted of wasteland and unspoilt nature. Afterwards, trees were planted on the sandy soil for timber production. The rugged nature was slowly reclaimed and cycling and walking paths were subtly constructed through the area. And the route also runs through the Boschhuizerbergen. These higher sandy soils form a drifting sand area on which many pine forests have been planted. Juniper thickets grow in the heart and there are a few drifting sand corners, which are enclosed by the trees. At the edge of the area there are swamp forests and swampy meadows. The area of this Natura 2000 area is 278 hectares. You can park your car at Profile Thijs. Take the opportunity to have your bike serviced to ensure you are on the road safely. Don't forget to show your bicycle discount pass, because with it you will receive a 10 euro discount on repairs and maintenance of your steel horse at Profile Hoogeboezem.