Highest points in the Netherlands and Belgium: Zwarte Berg

The Schwarze Berg, or Black Mountain, is only a few metres lower than the nearby Kemmelberg. The latter is 156 metres high, while the Black Mountain measures 152 metres. The mountain is located directly on the Belgian-French border and is therefore also known as Mont Noir. Incidentally, the name comes from the De Zwarte family, who owned the mountain in the 13th and 14th centuries.

You start the tour at a bus stop, but as it is a circular hike, it doesn't matter where you start. There are several car parks and other parking facilities along the route. You can also do this hike from the Mont Noir campsite or other accommodation.

A special feature along the way are at least the terraced paths and the chairlift that you suddenly see hovering above you. If you have enough time, a ride is definitely recommended. Just enquire about the opening times in advance.

You also hike through the Hellegat forest. The highlight of the hike, the summit of Black Mountain, is marked by a bronze female figure. This is Miss Cavell, a British nurse who was killed by the Germans during the First World War.