Maaseik and surroundings

The Bergerven, a nature reserve that extends southwest of Neeroeteren, is also a beautiful area to explore by bike. This area, which used to be called Neerheide, is 577 hectares in size, of which 44 hectares are used for recreational and industrial opportunities, as well as for agriculture. Here too you will find heather stands, but coniferous forests planted by humans predominate. The four large lakes in the area were created by gravel extraction, which also took place here on a large scale. Since 1992, these activities have been stopped and efforts are being made to enrich the poor soil again and convert it into heathland. When you recognize red heath in the area, you know that the development of nature here is on the right track, because growing the shrub is one of the stated goals.

At the statue of Mary in the Gruitroderbos you can get off your bike for a prayer, or just to take a closer look at the religious piece of art. The chapel is nicely hidden among the trees, giving it a mysterious but serene appearance.