Baronie Route Belgium

GPS recording of 30 September 2022

A rugged nature reserve with sand drifts and wet heathland, where you can see many Scots pines nowadays. Fens were drained and grasslands were created where the areas were too wet. In the varied nature of the Chaamse Bossen grow plants that thrive on relatively acidic soils and floral herbs and grassy plants are scattered here and there between the trees. The treetops are home to many different bird species: the yellow bunting, the nightjar, the tree lark, the collared redstart and the tree pipit are just a few of the many songbirds that live in the area. Birds of prey also feel at home there. The buzzard, sparrowhawk, hawk, kestrel and wasp thief hunt the grassy plains, which are inhabited by the teal, crested duck and ordered grebe. The fin-footed and alpine water salamander also seek out the moist soil, but roe deer prefer to hide: they graze among the trees. The adjacent St. Annabos is part of the Ulvenhout forests and was built in the sixteenth century. The forest was managed for hunting and, like the Mastbos, for timber yield. Both forests are particularly valuable and can be seen as natural museum pieces. Between the centuries-old trees you will find impressive avenues, beautiful vistas and lovely fens. But during this tour, which starts at the Zevenster at the Fathers in Meersel, it also has cultural-historical values. You will pass the Fusillade Monument Breda, which consists of a stone on which a plaque is attached. It says that eleven resistance fighters were executed close to the monument. Their names are engraved in the plaque. The historic country estate Bouvigne will undoubtedly also impress you a lot. This beautiful summer residence of prominent nobles of the past consists of a fairytale castle surrounded by three special gardens and an orchard. The estate dates back to the fifteenth century and the gardens are well worth a visit. Beautifully landscaped you will find designs from France, England and Germany. The orchard has also been restored and has been artfully landscaped. Back at De Zevenster "Bij De Paters", the cozy tarverne in Meersel-Dreef, you can order the tastiest sandwiches and invigorating drinks. It is nice to eat something before departure, but after the effort of the bike ride it is completely wonderful to rest on the terrace. Children can let off steam in the playground, while you enjoy a delicious home-brewed beer from the local brewer Den Drevenier.