Camp Heumensoord is where all military participants stay during the 4Days Marches. But there is more to Heumensoord than that. The woods to the south of the city of Nijmegen have a rich history. The small mounds are a reminder that Heumensoord was once used for military exercises and shooting practice, and there is actually still a military shooting range in use at Heumensoord. With an old Roman route running through them, the woods are home to the (restored) remains of a late-Roman watchtower. Heumensoord’s characteristic beech tree-lined lane is one you really should see, according to Bart: ‘The tall trees really make it a sight to behold. What makes Heumensoord all the more special is the variety of closely spaced landscapes along the push moraine: woodland, heathland and rivers.’

One spot that Bart thinks walkers should not pass up on is the Koningsven-De Diepen nature reserve between the town of Groesbeek and the village of Milsbeek. ‘Botanically speaking, it really is a stunning area. In 1935, these peatlands were developed and subsequently used for agriculture. In 2017, the area was dug up and returned to nature. Now we see a lot of special orchids and water birds thrive there. Those walking the 40km and 50km routes will pass this area on their way to the first climb, which offers a superb panoramic view as you walk towards the push moraine. The 30km crowd will get to enjoy it as they pass along Mooksebaan, which is a beautiful road that runs right through the beech tree forests. The restaurant called ’t Zwaantje makes for a great starting point for walks passing iconic sights such as the hunting lodge in the Mookerheide moorland. This 120-year-old hunting lodge was reopened last year, after a renovation that took eight years. There are also walks that start at the hunting lodge.

You will not be surprised to hear that Heumensoord is located in the municipality of Heumen. But has it ever struck you that this municipality is the only one you pass through on all four days of the 4Days Marches? Bear this in mind and see how you experience Heumen on each of the four days, and how the experience changes or remains the same from one day to the next.

Green Thursday is the day of woods and hills. Hills are not something we are used to in our flat country. Bart has several tips that may also come in handy after the 4Days Marches:

• Wear sturdy shoes. Preferably high-cut or low-cut hiking boots.
• Use anti-tick spray or wear thin long-sleeved shirts and full-length trousers.
• Walk at a calm pace, so that you can keep your breathing under control.
• Look around you and enjoy all the natural beauty.
• Get sufficient rest: there are plenty of lovely spots where you can take a breather.
• Bring a bag for your rubbish and protect nature.
• Be prepared for the fact that it may be chillier in a woody environment.