Along lost smuggling trails around Hoogstraten

Carnivorous plants

Especially along the winding Strijbeeksche Beek, you will feel like you are in earlier times, but without smugglers. The path crosses the stream several times over bridges, which were of course missing in the past. Due to the moist terrain conditions, mainly alder swamp forest grows. You will also find carnivorous plants such as the small sundew, a lover of very specific environments that are often dry in summer but flooded in winter.

Breathtaking nature

In recent years, the Dutch Forestry Commission and the Belgian Agency for Nature and Forests have been trying to regain the original open heathland landscape. The beautifully situated Langven and the modest Goudberg behind it are still largely in the same condition as they were back then. Sheep and cattle keep these places open. Now this area mainly offers breathtaking nature, silence and tranquility. The Elsakker nature reserve nicely illustrates the variety on this route: forest, heath, flower-rich grasslands, pools and ponds. An ideal place to catch your breath.

Photo copyright: Mie De Backer and Kempens Landschap