Red Heath Reserve Nature Area - Sint-Andries - Bruges

The name of the nature reserve reveals which plant is the main actor here. In our country, the purple-colored red heath (Erica Cinerea) has a very limited distribution area. It occurs on a few heathlands south of Bruges, and in a few places in the eastern Kempen. Together with the heathland area of Zevenkerken and the nearby domains of Beisbroek, Tilleghem-Valkenbosch and Vloethemveld, the Rode-dopheide reserve belongs to the most important places to grow this (Flemish Red List) plant in our country. These moors are reminiscent of a past in which the Bruges sands had several extensive moors.

Red heath reaches the northern border of its Atlantic distribution area in Flanders. There is also plenty of common shrub heather in the area. In a somewhat more humid zone, common heather can also be found. The nature reserve thus accommodates the unique combination of these 3 heath types.

Access to the area is limited due to its biological vulnerability and water extraction. You can get acquainted with it during one of the pleasant working days, guided walks or on request.

Willem Vandenameele