To the Moeren

This international 52-kilometer cycling route leads through former peat extraction areas in the Achtmaal-Schijf region.

While cycling, you will frequently encounter information boards that mention something about the peat history.

The route goes through forests and agricultural areas.

In addition to references to the peat history, you will also come across a few Mariakapellen.

In North Brabant, "moeren" were important areas where peat was extracted.

"Moeren" are peatlands, consisting of thick layers of decayed plant remains that have hardly decomposed due to the wet climate.

This peat could be dried and was then called turf: an important fuel before the arrival of coal and gas.

The largest moor areas in North Brabant were mainly located in De Peel (near the Limburg border) and around Roosendaal and Breda.

Peat was cut out of the peat soil in blocks. This was also referred to as "turven."

It was hard work: people often stood barefoot in muddy, wet ground for days on end.

After cutting, the peat had to dry on racks or in the field, after which it was suitable for firing.

Peat extraction was of great economic importance.

From the 16th to the 18th century, peat was the fuel for households, brewers, tanners, and bakeries.
Since peat was wet and heavy, it was usually transported by water via specially dug peat canals and neighborhoods (small channels).

In North Brabant, a fine network of peat canals developed, often connected to larger rivers like the Mark.

Examples of peat shipping places:
Roosendaal: developed a thriving economy due to peat shipping to Holland.
Breda: peat from surrounding moors was brought to the city via the water.