War memories around Leopoldsburg

The liberation of the Limburg Kempen was finally initiated on September 11, 1944, when the Allied troops crossed the Albert Canal in Beringen. While the Allied airborne operations in Arnhem went poorly, orders were given on the Belgian side of the border to advance towards the Meuse. The German troops fiercely resisted and were only gradually forced to retreat. Nevertheless, the liberation became a reality within the same month. It was primarily thanks to the heroic readiness of countless ordinary soldiers, both Belgian and of many other nationalities. During this bike ride, we primarily aim to highlight the true heroes at the front. Along the way, we do not forget that this region also suffered greatly during the First World War.

DIRECTIONS
Signpost bike network.

SAFETY
Like the entire Limburg bike network, this route is quite safe as well. However, caution is advised when crossing roads and near residential areas.

NATURE OF THE PATH
Tarred roads, except for half a kilometer. 40% traffic-free.

RECOMMENDED STARTING POINT
Leopoldsburg Harbor.

INFORMATION
Tourism Limburg Kempen, Kloosterstraat 13, 3960 Bree, 089 48 15 79, info@limburgsekempen.be, www.limburgsekempen.be.

Tourist Office, Hechtelsesteenweg 7, 3970 Leopoldsburg, 011 40 21 84, info@toerismeleopoldsburg.be, www.toerismeleopoldsburg.be.

VVV Hechtel-Eksel, Service Center, Don Boscostraat 8, 3940 Hechtel,
011 73 35 65, vvv.hechteksel@belgacom.net, www.hechtel.be.

BIKE RENTAL
Tourist Office, Hechtelsesteenweg 7, 3970 Leopoldsburg, 011 40 21 84, info@toerismeleopoldsburg.be.

Hotel Au Prince Royal, Albert I Square 28, 3970 Leopoldsburg, 011 34 62 16.

FOOD AND DRINK
De Merel, Op 't Zand 53, 3970 Heppen, 011 40 22 55.

Bistro Kaffee, 12 September Street 7, 3940 Hechtel, 011 60 32 92.