Board G

Old Railway Line Tract

The bike path you see here is located on the old route of the railway line that connected Eindhoven to Liège in Belgium since 1866. The Aalst-Waalre station was situated near "Brasserie 't Stationskoffiehuis" in Waalre.

The railway primarily transported goods needed for the emerging industry, such as sugar beets, potatoes, textiles, cigars, and candles. A substantial amount of mine wood was also transported to Limburg. Opposite the loading line was the Boerenbond building, intended for temporary storage of goods before carriers could take them away. For many years, until well into the 1950s, coal was delivered via the "Belslijntje," providing for our energy supply. Passengers were also transported until the early 1950s. In 1959, the railway was dismantled, and the station was demolished in 1964.

Bombs Line

During World War II, about 300 meters north of here, an offshoot was created by the German Luftwaffe. This branch was used to transport military equipment, bombs, and other ammunition to the "Welschap" airfield. The old gravel bed can still be found in the ground.

Hike

The IVN Valkenswaard/Waalre department has set up marked hiking trails in the area. For more information, including the starting points for the trails, please visit the website of IVN.

Heath

This heathland, Meelberg, is a remnant of the larger Neerheide. In the mid-19th century, the Neerheide extended entirely between the valley of the Tongelreep in the east and the valley of the Dommel in the west. At that time, heathland covered 70% of the Kempen landscape, characterized by high sand ridges alternating with valleys. Heath is one of the first plants to establish itself on sandy soils. The heather's roots help retain the sand and prevent it from blowing away. Two types of heather are distinguished here: bell heather and common heather.

Unique Habitat for Plants and Animals

Heathland is a unique habitat for plants and animals. Thanks to the heath, various species of mosses and lichens thrive here. Many species of insects and spiders also find their habitat here. Furthermore, the viviparous lizard, a particularly vulnerable and therefore rare reptile, can still be found on this piece of heath.

Maintenance

Heath is a so-called semi-cultivated plant, which means it needs maintenance. In the past, this was achieved through sheep grazing to keep the heath short and allow it to rejuvenate regularly. Nowadays, human intervention is required for heath maintenance. If neglected, the heath will be overrun by birch and pine. Another threat is nitrogen deposition, causing grass species like purple moor grass and wavy hair-grass to proliferate. This leads to the heath being "overgrown."

The Nature Working Group Waalre of the IVN conducts maintenance here. The heath is regularly cleared of young birch and pine.
This area is one of the last places in the municipality of Waalre where we can enjoy the heath. All the more reason to take good care of it.

Peace on the heath is important for our birds and amphibians. Therefore, keep dogs on a leash!