De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide Cross-Border Park is a cross-border park on the Belgian–Dutch border. It is a merger of two former parks, the Kalmthoutse Heide (Kalmthout Heath) in Belgium and De Zoom in the Netherlands, together extending over 37.50 square kilometres (14.48 sq mi). A very large part of the park is covered with heath.
The park is managed by a special commission in which both Flemish and Dutch organisations are represented. The park is owned by the state of Flanders, the municipality Kalmthout, Staatsbosbeheer, Natuurmonumenten and several private owners. The best known part of the border park lies in Belgium, in the north of the province of Antwerp (Kalmthout and Essen). The Dutch part lies in the municipality Woensdrecht (province North Brabant) and stretches from the border to the villages Huijbergen and Putte.
Getting there
The closest major city is Antwerp and the drive from the city is just 30 - 40 minutes. The drive from Brussels is not much longer and you should be able to reach the national park in a little over an hour. There are plenty of international flights to Brussels from most major airports.
When to visit
The national park is popular in all seasons as it's located in a quite densely populated area. Summer is the most popular month given the warmer weather. You will still find visitors in the colder months throughout the year.
Map of De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
Image gallery of De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
Visitor/Information centres in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
Most national parks have an associated visitor centre to help visitors. They are usually open most of the year but some close in the off-season. You will often be able to find information on all the activities in the national park. A visit to the visitor centre is often recommended before venturing into the park.
Wildlife in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
These sections shows you some of the characteristic wildlife to the national park.
Mushroom hunting in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
There are no official information on opportunities for foraging in the park. Be sure to speak to local authorities before picking mushrooms.
Camping rules in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
The national park is located in a densely populated area. Wild camping is prohibited and there is no wild nature in the park.
Bears in De Zoom–Kalmthoutse Heide National Park
No bears in the park
This national park has no bears and you do not need to take precautions.
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