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Kabouterkoning Kyrië

1 hour 40 minutes (23.5 km)
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For generations, the people of the Kempen have been telling each other stories about Kabouterkoning Kyrië. You can find the full story in the description on this page. This cycle route is part of a series of cycle routes based on Kabouterkoning Kyrië. The other cycle route, the Gnome Cycle Route, can also be found on our website. This 9-kilometre cycle route, following the cycle junction network, takes you through the exciting story.

Long ago, a mysterious race of gnomes lived in the Kempen. These tiny creatures were kind to both people and animals, but never showed themselves to humans. Only in the evening, after dark, would they emerge. Then they would help the people of the Kempen with their hard work. Carpentry, baking, cheese-making and ploughing – nothing was too much for the gnomes. But leave them in peace… or you may face a punishment! Set off and follow in the footsteps of the Kempen Gnomes, but be warned…

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For generations, the people of the Kempen have been telling each other stories about Kabouterkoning Kyrië. You can find the full story in the description on this page. This cycle route is part of a series of cycle routes based on Kabouterkoning Kyrië. The other cycle route, the Gnome Cycle Route, can also be found on our website. This 9-kilometre cycle route, following the cycle junction network, takes you through the exciting story.

Long ago, a mysterious race of gnomes lived in the Kempen. These tiny creatures were kind to both people and animals, but never showed themselves to humans. Only in the evening, after dark, would they emerge. Then they would help the people of the Kempen with their hard work. Carpentry, baking, cheese-making and ploughing – nothing was too much for the gnomes. But leave them in peace… or you may face a punishment! Set off and follow in the footsteps of the Kempen Gnomes, but be warned…

Every evening, as soon as the clock strikes ten and the people of the Kempen extinguish their oil lamps, the gnomes come out. Then they knock on every window and door. “Everyone off to bed!” And they get on with a mountain of work. They help the cheesemaker with his cheese recipe and the miller with grinding all the grain from the Kempen. At the break of dawn, the gnomes return home. To the Kaboutersberg, to sleep. Or to the Ten Vorsel Estate, to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings.

For years, everything has been ei in the Kempen. The gnomes enjoy their secluded life. And the people of the Kempen appreciate the welcome help. Until one day, a farmer from the Kempen becomes too curious. “Who on earth is doing all that work at night?” He decides to stay up secretly at night and investigate.

It’s midnight. The farmer gets up. In his barn, he hears the sound of small, quick footsteps. He peeks inside through the keyhole. Before he can see anything, a key hits him in the eye. “Ouch!” cries the farmer in panic. He is instantly half-blind. And the gnomes? They decide never to help him again…

Disappointed, the gnomes slink away. Back to the Kaboutersberg in Hoogeloon, centred around a centuries-old gnome tree. This tree is very important to Kyrië and his gnome folk. Unfortunately, the tree has been ill for some time. That is why he decides to go in search of healing herbs. He will do anything to make his tree better again.

Meanwhile, the half-blind farmer is on the verge of despair. “I was so used to the gnomes’ help. Now I don’t know how to keep my farm running.” To put food on the table, the farmer decides to go hunting. He packs his things and walks out onto the surrounding heathland.

In the tall grass, he sees something moving. “Brilliant, a black grouse!” The farmer takes aim and fires. But as soon as he gets closer, it turns out he’s hit something else. It’s Kabouterkoning Kyrië! Now the farmer knows for sure that gnomes exist. But… he’s also well aware of the gnomes’ vengeance. He quickly takes to his heels. “I’m never coming back here!”

That evening, the gnomes realise that their king has disappeared. “We must spread the news quickly.” They leave pancakes and other treats all over the place. As soon as someone from the Kempen finds the treats, they hear a whisper: “Go home and tell everyone that Kabouterkoning Kyrië has disappeared!” And so the news spreads like wildfire through the Kempen.

To their great sorrow, the gnomes can no longer find their king. A few days later, the people of the Kempen saw a large cloud of dust sweeping across the heath. Since then, the gnomes have disappeared. And nobody knows where they are. As a memento, the gnomes left behind a statue of Kabouterkoning Kyrië . This reminds the people of the Kempen that, just like the gnomes, they should be kind, good-natured and helpful. For only then will the gnomes return. Or might they already be back? Do take a quick look at the play areas the gnomes are so fond of. You might just spot one there...

Get off your bike and explore…
Be sure to stop off here and there to explore the beautiful surroundings. In the bustling centre of Bladel, the many restaurants, terraces and shops will welcome you with open arms. You’ll also get to experience the stunning natural landscapes and countryside you’ll encounter during your cycle ride.

Cycle junction points
Follow the route from junction to junction using the distinctive cycle junction signs. You simply cycle from number to number. You’ll find the junction numbers on signs by the side of the road. Arrows then point you in the direction of your chosen number.

Route reporting centre
Is there something wrong with the signposting or the route? Please report this via the Brabant Junction Routes Reporting Centre. You can also call 0800-4050050 (free of charge).

This is what you are going to see

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