Bergeijk, Eersel

The Kempen is a sandy region stretching from the northeast of Belgium to the southeast of North Brabant. The sandy soil used to cause much poverty here. The simple smallholders had to work hard to scrape together a living. But this soil also created beautiful forests and heaths, interspersed with small lakes.

What was once a poor stretch of sand is now a paradise for nature lovers and bon vivants. The varied landscapes invite you to take long bike rides, during which you can stop at one of the many charming outdoor cafés.

Bergeijk and Eersel are two typical Kempen villages where nature, hospitality and culinary traditions go hand in hand. Bergeijk is also very artistic. A visit to De Weverij, where you can take a stroll past the art objects of Rietveld & Ruys, is highly recommended. You can then continue cycling through the green landscape, passing the ‘t Loo nature garden along the way.

After a beautiful trip through the woods and across the heath, a stop at a cosy eatery or a traditional brasserie is highly recommended. If you want to combine nature and culinary delights with a bit of history, you can visit the Kempenmuseum De Acht Zaligheden (The Eight Beatitudes) along the way, where you can learn everything about life in the Kempen region in the past.