From the Visdonk estate through the Rucphen forests

A large portion of this route takes you through the Rucphen woods. This 1,200-hectare forest stretches all the way to the Belgian border. Originally, this area was a sandy ridge with heathlands and drifting sands, but in the early 20th century, the area was planted with conifers. Hidden among the trees are some agricultural fields, and a few patches of heather grass and drifting sand have also been preserved.

Refuel with a delicious meal
The start and end point of this route is at Brasserie Lodge Visdonk. The menu is packed with delicious dishes, so you certainly won't leave hungry. A great way to refuel after all the exercise. The brasserie is located on an estate that has been extensively renovated in recent years. Want to stretch your legs before or after your bike ride? Then stroll through the beautiful nature of the estate and enjoy the blooming marsh gentians and other beautiful plants and flowers around the Rozenven. After about six kilometers of cycling, you'll find the next attraction: the Heimolen in Rucphen. Get off your bike here to admire a belt mill dating back to 1866 and take a breather.

The Heimolen in Rucphen
Originally, the Heimolen was a wooden octagonal mill, but now it has a stone frame. It was originally built to replace a small, dilapidated wooden windmill. Until the end of the 20th century, the mill operated regularly, but eventually fell into disuse. The dilapidated mill was purchased in 2008 and restored by the municipality of Rucphen. This took several years, but since 2012, the mill's exterior has been completely restored and operational. The mill now operates occasionally with the help of a volunteer miller.