From nature reserve to nature reserve around Helchteren

De Teut nature reserve
The starting point of this cycle route is just outside Helchteren in the Helchterenbos. From here you cycle over a former railway bed to Zonhoven. You can enjoy cycling on this path while you see numerous ponds and wetland areas around you. Just outside Zonhoven you cross the De Teut nature reserve, a beautiful and quiet area with extensive heathlands, fens and pine forests. Together with the Tenhaagdoornheide nature reserve, De Teut forms a heathland area of approximately 2,000 hectares. Typical vegetation you will encounter here is sundew and white sedge.

La Reine Sucree
At the end of the route you arrive back in the Helchterenbos at La Reine Sucrée. Relax here on the terrace and be pampered with delicious snacks and drinks. Enjoy a cup of coffee or tea with homemade pastries, fresh soup, quiche or something else tasty. You are sure to find something on the menu that will make your mouth water.

Centuries-old heathlands
The heathlands in this area were created by the felling of primeval forests in the past and the lack of fertilizers. The heathlands that emerged were used by farmers to graze their livestock, especially sheep herds. Later, many heathlands were converted into fields and meadows, but here and there some heathlands have still been preserved.