Brabant Monastery Trail: circular tour De Groote Heide
This monastery walk will allow you to discover the beautiful countryside around the Achelse Kluis in Hamont-Achel in De Groote Heide heathland.
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This monastery walk will allow you to discover the beautiful countryside around the Achelse Kluis in Hamont-Achel in De Groote Heide heathland.
North Brabant monastery life
While walking, become acquainted with the life and work of the Brabant monks and nuns – then and now. Brabant Monastery Trail takes you past around fifty-five monasteries and abbeys in North Brabant in various stages. The total length of the trail is 330 kilometres, but there are also beautiful trails marked out around various monasteries.
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Signposting of the Monastery trail
Simply follow the signs and walk along the route from one numbered junction to the next.
Signposting of the Monastery trail
Simply follow the signs and walk along the route from one numbered junction to the next.
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Hotline routes
Hotline routesIf there is something wrong on the route, report it here.
from Brabant residents
Skip map elementsLocations on this route
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De Achelse Kluis Abbey
De Achelse Kluis Abbey
It is the starting point for a wonderful walking or cycling trip through the Leenderbos, the Groote Heide or the Beverbeekse Heide. From here, you can also easily reach the charming town of Hamont-Achel.
De Achelse Kluis
De Kluis 1/A
3930 Hamont-Achel
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De Groote Heide / Achelse Kluis Visitor Center
De Groote Heide / Achelse Kluis Visitor Center
At the De Groote Heide / Achelse Kluis Visitor Center, you’ll get to know the region through interactive experiences. And all your senses will be stimulated!
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Location of former Border chapel
Location of former Border chapel
In the centre of this heathland region among several remote fens lies the remains of what used to be a conventicle (a secret or unlawful religious meeting), during the period that lasted from 1648 to 1672.
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Den Doodendraad and National Border Post 175
Den Doodendraad and National Border Post 175
Many “pungelaars” (smugglers carrying burlap bags filled with contraband on their backs) followed small forest paths and sandy roads to cross the border along the Budel-Gastel route towards Achel and vice versa.
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De Achelse Kluis Abbey
De Achelse Kluis Abbey
It is the starting point for a wonderful walking or cycling trip through the Leenderbos, the Groote Heide or the Beverbeekse Heide. From here, you can also easily reach the charming town of Hamont-Achel.
De Achelse Kluis
De Kluis 1/A
3930 Hamont-Achel
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Route features
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11 dog-friendly places to eat and drink amid the North Brabant countryside
In North Brabant there are plenty of places to eat and drink where dogs are just as welcome as their owners. From bowls of water and dog biscuits to special dog menus, at these 11 locations you and your dog can enjoy the countryside and the hospitality.
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8 things to do with children in North Brabant
North Brabant is a location that draws you closer to those unforgettable moments with the entire family. Will you choose a swimming paradise, an amusement park or a childproof museum? Plan your ideal family outing in the Netherlands in North Brabant.
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7 places to go in the Brabant countryside with children
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Tips for a sustainable weekend away or day out in North Brabant
Does travelling actually fit within a sustainable lifestyle? Yes, it does! Often, small adjustments can make a huge difference.
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A cultural city trip: Breda and surrounding area
Breda is a city filled with unique stories, some of which you will learn about during this two-day trip.
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From monastery gardens to drifting sand dunes: a 5-day motorhome road trip through the Van Gogh National Park
Hike and cycle through Van Gogh National Park on a 5-day east–west route. Discover nature, local flavours, and stories, with welcoming motorhome stops near monasteries, castles, woods, dunes, and lively Brabant towns.
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Reflection and wonder on a two-day walking trail
For centuries, Brabant’s countryside has inspired monks and Van Gogh. Follow their footsteps on a 2-day walk past monasteries, abbeys, and the Oisterwijk Forests & Fens, with a night in the peaceful countryside.
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A weekend for slowing down in North Brabant
Two days of wandering through monasteries, castles, forts and fortified cities with plenty of time along the way for culinary enjoyment at creative food hotspots – this is possible in North Brabant.
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A long weekend of surprises in the heart of Brabant
Allow yourself three days to be amazed by a part of North Brabant between Tilburg and Esbeek, close to the Belgian border.
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7 times UNESCO in North Brabant
UNESCO is best known for the World Heritage List. But UNESCO also recognises heritage in other areas, which means you will encounter UNESCO sites also in North Brabant.