Schaijk, Zeeland, Herpen

The Liberation Routes Brabant are eight cycle routes, spread throughout the province, that take you past the stories of World War II and liberation. This war was largely fought in the air. Near Schaijk, the Germans owned a number of airfields: the base in Volkel and the shadow airfield Keent. Both played an important role in Operation Market Garden.

This cycle route takes you past the places where German fighter jets used to be stationed. During the war years, residents around Keent, among others, had to give up their land and houses so that the airfield could be expanded. At both this shadow airfield and Volkel airbase, civilians from the surrounding area were recruited and obliged to help restore the runways after bombing raids.

Operation Market Garden had a major impact in the liberation of this region. The Allies wanted to cross this area as quickly as possible. A number of heroic locals helped them do this. The British Royal Air Force, after the area had been cleared of German occupation, used the air bases to supply relief troops and equipment.

Cycle the route and immerse yourself in the stories of the liberation of the Maashorst municipality. Along the way, you will come across several reminders that will make you pause and reflect on the peace and freedom as we cherish it today.

Photo: ©VisitBrabant Routebureau