What will you encounter along the way?
The route follows the Rode Beek, a winding stream that rises just across the border in Germany. The clear water flows over a striking reddish-brown, iron-rich bed. Here, you are literally walking along the border between the Netherlands and Germany. In the area, you will also find bog myrtle, a plant that was once used for brewing beer.
You will also pass Vlodrop Station, a place with a remarkable past. This was once the site of a station on the “Iron Rhine” railway line, which connected Belgium with the Ruhr area. The name of the area still reflects this history.
Happiness spots along the route
Along the way, you pass two so-called happiness spots from Roerdalen. These are places selected by local residents where you can pause and take in your surroundings.
At happiness spot 16, you walk across the wooden boardwalk of Sint Ludwig. This path takes you over the marshland along the Rode Beek. You hear the gentle flow of water and see the light reflecting on the clear surface.
A little further on is happiness spot 17: the Wheel of Fortune at the Gitstappermolen. The large water wheel has been turning here for centuries, powered by the stream. This water mill from the fourteenth century forms a vivid piece of history in the landscape.
Also across the border: Wassenberg
The walk also takes you into the German town of Wassenberg. Here, residents have designated ten of their own happiness spots. Think of the view from the Bergfried, a walk through the rose garden, or a quiet moment at the Birgelener Pützchen chapel. These are places where you experience the surroundings in a different way.
Along the route, you will find several restaurants where you can take a break. This turns the hike into not just a journey through nature, but a relaxed day in the border region.