Smeetshof - Wijffelterbroek - orange - 10,3 km
In the hiking area Smeetshof-Wijffelterbroek, you literally cross borders. This longer cross-border route lets you experience both Smeetshof and Wijffelterbroek.
Extensive description CloseYou also hike all the way to the Abeek, where you have a view of the nature reserve Mariahof - De Luysen. Did you know that the Smeetshof, together with the Dutch Wijffelterbroek, was once part of a 5,000 ha large border swamp? The landscape was extensively cultivated at the end of the last century. In 2003, restoration of the swamp began. The nature development project Smeetshof created new swamp areas, heathland restoration, ponds with amphibians, and wet and dry grasslands with scattered woodlands. Vantage points, bird hides, and boardwalks offer you a unique view of this surprising part of the KempenBroek. You hike between Belgium and the Netherlands, among woodlands, swamps, meadows, and streams.
Distance
Average time
Ascent
Start points
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Smeetshof - starting point 't Vosseven
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Smeetshof - starting point Smeetshoeve
Smeetshofweg 1 , 3950 Bocholt
Practical info
Parking
Hospitality
- Sturdy shoes or boots recommended after wet periods
- Slip hazard: the paths, steep slopes, and stairways can be muddy and slippery.
- Picnic bench(es) available along the way