Enjoyment without barriers
For less mobile, blind and visually impaired visitors
Being less mobile is no reason to be unable to enjoy nature. It is precisely then that it is important to get out and about and the Grenspark is happy to help. Discover the alternative paths for people with reduced mobility. Read about the possibilities below.
Wheelchair paths Klein Zwitserland and Ravenhof Castle
In the Grenspark there are two signposted and semi-paved paths suitable for wheelchair users and prams. One path starts at gateway De Vroente in Kalmthout. This footpath 'Klein Zwitserland' runs via the Withoefse Heide through a beautiful stretch of heathland. Along the way, you will find an (adapted) picnic table for a well-deserved break.
Download GPX-file
Another semi-paved path starts at entrance gate Ravenhof/Moretusbos in Putte/Stabroek and takes you past Ravenhof castle, the old castle garden and through stately avenues of majestic trees.
Download GPX-file
Discover barrier-free routes and addresses via our digital experience map:
MTB News from the park
MONA News from the park
Wheelchair path
Wombat
Cadweazle
Wombat or DE-BUG, robust off-road wheelchairs for your forest tour
Would you rather go into the sandy forest? That's possible too, with a Wombat or DE-BUG! A Wombat is a robust all-terrain wheelchair with smaller front caster wheels that can take a bump and is therefore well suited to sandy paths. Two Wombats are available, as well as two DE-BUGs. The DE-BUG has smaller caster wheels at the back instead of the front.
Note: A wombat rides well on forest paths, but in the loose sand a bit more strength is needed when pushing the wheelchair.
Cadweazle electric off-road wheelchair
For people with a physical disability who would like to move around independently, De Vroente has one Cadweazle. This is an electrically powered and very stable all-terrain wheelchair that travels up to 6 km/hour. Unevenness and tree roots on the path are no problem for this wheelchair. So users discover the Kalmthoutse Heide together with family or friends at a nice walking pace. Children and young people with a physical disability can use the Cadweazle when accompanied by an adult. The Cadweazle has a three-point harness and foot strap.
Cadweazle route
In consultation with the Agency for Nature and Forest (ANB) and the Kalmthout fire brigade, a fixed 4.1-kilometre route has been mapped out for safety reasons where you can drive with the Cadweazle. You will enjoy a nice view of the Putse Moer fen, a ride over a sandy plain and the panorama at the fire tower.
Download GPX-file
Offroad wheelchair
De Vroente has an Offroad rollator adapted to the terrain of the Kalmthoutse Heide.
Book in advance
The various devices are provided free of charge by De Vroente, Duurzaam Educatiepunt, on condition that you leave an identity card or a copy thereof and sign a user agreement. You can book during weekdays from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm and at weekends from 2:00 pm to 4:30 pm. Reservations can be made directly via the reservation system, by e-mail or by phone (03 620 18 30).
De Vroente has special car parks and the visitor centre is wheelchair-friendly, with an adapted toilet. Wheelchair-friendly tables are also provided at all picnic areas in the Grenspark.
Blind and visually impaired
Even without sight, natural beauty is excellent to experience. Just then, the birds' song sounds louder, the scent of flowers is more intense and the texture of the sand under your feet is clearer. It is important that everyone can enjoy nature. The accompanying 'Butterfly app' with special route for the blind and visually impaired contributes to this.
Footpath butterfly
The butterfly footpath in the Withoefse Heide is laid out in such a way that people with a visual impairment can use it effortlessly. The path is thoroughly and regularly maintained so that it remains passable, without large bumps or deep potholes. Natural elements such as tree trunks clearly demarcate the path. Via the Butterfly app, visitors also get expert explanations of the surrounding nature and history of the area during the tour. You walk the entire route in one to one and a half hours.
Want to experience nature without sight?
Not visually impaired but want to know how blind or visually impaired people experience nature and the path? De Vroente offers simulation glasses and white canes to borrow. Click here for more information.