Smuggling Route De Groote Heide | Stories at the Border

Explore the De Groote Heide nature reserve with this 44-kilometre cycle route, which takes you across the border and introduces you to the story of a customs officer or smuggler from the 1930s.

This varied cycle route offers a beautiful mix of city and countryside, with a connecting route between the Netherlands and Belgium. During the tour you will pass through unspoilt nature and charming villages with a history of smuggling. Experience the cat-and-mouse game that took place in the border area of De Groote Heide and follow in the footsteps of the smuggler or clerk with this approximately 44 kilometre long cycle route.

About this route

This cycle route was developed by the VisitBrabant Routebureau and uses the Brabant cycle junction system. You can easily follow the route by cycling from one numbered junction to another, while arrows guide you between the junctions. If there is anything wrong with the signposting of the route, you can report this on visitbrabant.com/meldpunt or call 0800-4050050 (free).

Roadmap

View this route page on your phone or download the GPX file. A route brochure is available for this theme route, download it here . They are also available at the VVV in Cranendonck and the VVV in Hamont-Achel.

Stories at the Border

Stories at the Border offers a unique insight into the diversity of the province of Brabant. Brabant is located on the border between the Netherlands and Belgium, and between the provinces of Limburg, Zeeland, South Holland and Gelderland. The border has a rich history with stories about smuggling, closed borders and cross-border cooperation.

View all routes via visitbrabant.com/verhalenaandegrens .