To the North of Turnhout lies the Turnhout Heathland Area. This area is sparsely populated, with smaller or larger ponds scattered here and there. By swapping land with agriculture and recreation, the goal is to transform the Turnhout Heathland Area back into a continuous nature reserve of heath, ponds, and forests.

The Bels Lijntje, a popular green cycling path along an old railway bed, runs through this area. The wooden observation tower along the way is an ideal stopping point. Climb it, and you’ll enjoy a free panoramic view of the Turnhout Heathland Area.

Past the old border station of Weelde, head towards Baarle, which is split into the Belgian part, Baarle-Hertog, and the Dutch part, Baarle-Nassau. This division isn’t neatly done street by street. Baarle-Hertog consists of 22 enclaves scattered across the municipality of Baarle-Nassau. Within those Belgian enclaves are seven Dutch plots of land. For clarity, tiles in the streets indicate the border’s location. You’ll notice it cuts across streets, squares, and even houses. This intricate puzzle is a legacy from the 13th century. The route then takes you further into a corner of the Netherlands.

Next, you head towards the Ravelse Forests. Forestry was the main industry in the Kempen in the early 20th century. Soon, you’ll reach the banks of the Dessel-Schoten Canal. In summer, you can take the ferry “De Liereman” across; on the other side, Burcht Hertog Jan brasserie awaits, welcoming thirsty cyclists. Through the Turnhout marina, you’ll then cycle back to De Lilse Bergen.