The Smokkelroute, a cross-border cycling experience through Hamont-Achel and Cranendonck, has been nominated for the Visit Limburg Awards in the walking, cycling, or water experience category. Hamont-Achel is particularly proud of this nomination and hopes for a win, for which public support is requested.
The 44 km long route takes cyclists through the landscape of Natuurgrenspark De Groote Heide, introducing them to the region's rich smuggling history. Along the way, participants discover stories of smugglers, customs officers, and the goods that were secretly transported across the border, such as butter, sugar, and even lingerie.
With support from Interreg and Natuurgrenspark De Groote Heide, the route is currently being developed into an engaging experience. Through creative elements like street art, wood carving, and corten steel silhouettes, the smuggling past is made visible and subtly integrated into the landscape. Additionally, QR codes along the route will allow visitors to view digital stories and animations about smuggling history on-site. In collaboration with local entrepreneurs, a smuggling game and scavenger hunt are also being developed to actively challenge visitors to experience the story of the border region.
Thus, the Smokkelroute is evolving into an innovative cycling experience where nature, heritage, art, and experience converge. The full realization of the renewed route is planned for spring 2027.
The nomination for the Visit Limburg Awards is a significant recognition. To convert this nomination into a win, everyone is urged to cast a vote for the Smokkelroute at www.visitlimburgawards.be. Voting is open until November 6th.
More information about the route can be found at degrooteheide.eu/smokkelroute.
