Cycling through the oldest landscaped cultural forest

In the 14th century, Terheijden arose on a sandy ridge. Its location next to the small river Mark was of great importance. Therefore, Spanish troops docked and built the fort de Kleine Schans. This was destroyed but a new one was built in 1830. This one is now renovated and worth seeing. Along the Markkanaal you drive towards Breda. The center, the historic inner city, is worth a break. While sitting on a terrace you can enjoy the old buildings and wonderful Brabant atmosphere. You cycle on to the Mastbos. This is one of the oldest, landscaped cultural forests in the Netherlands and therefore nationally known. It owes its name to the many Scots pines which used to be called 'mast trees'. Among other things, ship masts were made from them. Long lanes run through the forest. At one time, the lines of the avenues indicated a square. This was the perimeter of a hunting ground. Now especially enjoy the old trees and small pools.