Peat extraction Nieuwmoer

This beautiful part of Kalmthout is so important from a natural history perspective that it deserves some attention. That Nieuwmoer owes its origin to peat extraction is a fact that cannot be denied: Nieuwe Moeren. Besides the wild plant growth and bird population, the precious nature reserve has quite a bit of history to offer. The guide will take you by the hand to discover the remains of the "brown gold" in the De Maatjes nature reserve.

From the 15th century, peat extraction led to the emergence of the village of Nieuwmoer. The canals that run through De Maatjes, the relationship between the Abbey of Tongerlo and the Lords of Breda and Wuustwezel, the roles of Princes René and Willem van Nassau, Hanneke Wiewau... They are the main characters in the fascinating stories linked to De Maatjes. What do "Kijfhoek," "Prikkendier," and "Passevan" mean to you? Or do you know what a "Dikkop" is? Perhaps you'll meet Jaan de Turfsteker who will rescue you from the swamps after the wandering lights lured you there.