Vortum Mullem: Cornelius history and the Maasheggen

Vortum Mullem offers several points of interest to consider when planning a stay: the history surrounding Saint Cornelius and trails through the Maasheggen landscape. You can make your choice based on whether historical connections to the area, a walking route, or a cycling tour is your priority. Details about dates, route length, and starting points can help you weigh these options.

Cornelius history and historical connections to the area

The Cornelius Chapel in Mullem was first mentioned in a document dated August 16, 1424. For centuries, Mullem was a pilgrimage site for Sinte Knillis. People prayed there for protection from cramps, paralysis, and nervous disorders, as well as for the good health of their calves.

The new parish church in Vortum-Mullem was consecrated on February 14, 1953, and dedicated to Saint Cornelius. It contains an oak statue of the saint dating from around 1500. On June 10, 2017, St. Cornelius Church was deconsecrated and converted into MFA Knillus, ending its use as a place of worship.

The historic Roman road through the Land van Cuijk also passed through Vortum-Mullem, adding another historical connection to the area alongside the history of Cornelius.

Walking trails and landscape

The 7.7 km walking trail “De Maasheggen op z’n mooist” starts at De Schutkooi, Veerweg 3, between junctions 23 and 28. The trail crosses wind-blown sand dunes known as the Bergjes and follows a finely structured patchwork of Maasheggen hedgerows in a floodplain where the hedges are preserved.

More than 40 different bird species breed in the Maasheggen and in the woodland on the raised ground in and around the Vortumse Bergjes. The number of species may change over time.

The IVN De Pontipad starts near De Schutkooi on Veerweg, where the road leads into the Maasheggen area. The two trails offer different planning reference points: “De Maasheggen op z’n mooist” is listed as 7.7 km long, while the IVN De Pontipad’s starting point is where Veerweg enters the area. This lets you choose a walk based on its length or its described starting point.

Cycling in the Maasheggen area

The Kapellenbaan can be explored by bicycle or car, passing modern and traditional works of art as well as existing heritage sites in the Maasheggen area. Its address is Provincialeweg 1b, 5827 AA Vortum Mullem.

A signposted cycling route also runs through the Maasheggen area along the Roman road. It follows numbered cycling junctions; sections of the historic route are marked by Roman field signs, information boards, and Roman helmets set into the road surface.

De Schutkooi has a catering building for recreational cyclists and festive occasions. If you are planning a visit, check in advance whether it will be open at your intended time.

Boxmeer, Oeffelt, Overloon, Groeningen, Maashees, Vierlingsbeek, Sambeek

Go to the main travel overview: Boxmeer.