Gnome King Kyrië cycle route, 9 km
For generations, the people of the Kempen have been telling each other stories about Kyrië, the Gnome King. 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 the story of Kyrië, the Gnome King. The other cycle route, the Gnome Cycle Route, can also be found on our website. This 9-kilometre cycle route, following the junction points, takes you through the exciting story.
Long ago, a mysterious race of gnomes lived in de 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… otherwise, a punishment may follow! 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 Kyrië, the Gnome King. 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 the story of Kyrië, the Gnome King. The other cycle route, the Gnome Cycle Route, can also be found on our website. This 9-kilometre cycle route, following the junction points, takes you through the exciting story.
Long ago, a mysterious race of gnomes lived in de 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… otherwise, a punishment may follow! 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 o naar buitenr. Then they knock on every window and door. “Everyone off to bed!” And they get on with a mountain of work. They help the cheesemonger 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 Landgoed Ten Vorsel estate, to enjoy the beautiful countryside.
For years, everything has been ‘ koek en ei ’ in de Kempen. The gnomes enjoy their secluded life. And the people of de Kempen appreciate the welcome help. Until one day, a farmer from de Kempen becomes too curious. “Who on earth is doing all that hard 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 even see anything, a key hits him in the eye. “Ouch!”, the farmer shouts in panic. He’s suddenly half-blind. And the gnomes? They decide never to help him again…
Disappointed, the gnomes trudge off. 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’s why he decides to go in search of healing herbs. He’ll 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 gathers 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 Kyrië, the Gnome King! 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 again!”
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 a local from de Kempen finds the treats, they hear a whisper: “Go home and tell everyone that Gnome King Kyrië has disappeared!” And so the news spreads like wildfire through de Kempen.
To their great sorrow, the gnomes could 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 vanished. And nobody knows where they are. As a memento, the gnomes left behind a statue of Gnome King 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 even spot one there...
Hop off your bike and explore…
Be sure to stop off here and there to discover the beautiful surroundings. In the bustling centre of Bladel , the many restaurants, outdoor cafés and shops will welcome you with open arms. You’ll also come across plenty of beautiful nature and countryside during your cycle ride. Enjoy the peace and space all around you! For more information, visit visitbladel.nl. Here you’ll find a calendar of events, places to eat and drink, accommodation options and plenty of tips for a fantastic day out in Bladel and the surrounding area.
Experience exciting local stories in Brabant
Here’s what you’ll see
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