Gastel: Cornelius Tradition, Heathland and Cycling Routes

Specific points of interest include the Cornelius Octave in September, the De Baronie van Cranendonck boundary post, Gastelse Heide and two named routes.

Cornelius Pilgrimage and Festival Week

The origins and development of the Cornelius pilgrimage in Gastel date back to the 18th century. Saint Cornelius is venerated particularly in connection with children suffering from convulsions and epilepsy. During the Cornelius Octave, from 16 to 23 September, a mass with veneration of relics is held every day. The Gastelse fair is set up next to the chapel during the first three days of Festival Week. A blessing of children takes place in the afternoons on the fair days. For travel planning, distinguish between these timeframes: the mass takes place throughout the octave, the fair during the first three festival days, and the blessing of children on the fair days. If you would like to time your stay to coincide with Festival Week, check the dates and local programme before your visit, as the annual schedule may change.

A Historic Boundary Post

Another historical point of interest is the De Baronie van Cranendonck boundary post. The post, made of hard stone, separated the Lordship of Hees en Leen from the Barony of Cranendonck. As a boundary marker, it represents an earlier territorial division. Gastel’s history thus encompasses different themes: the Cornelius pilgrimage as a religious tradition and a physical boundary between two named lordships.

Gastelse Heide and Landscape History

Gastelse Heide lies between Het Goor and Gastel. Grazing management using Icelandic ponies was introduced in 1972 in the area between these two places, where the heathland lies. The Soerendonks Goor and Gastelse Heide area is considered the oldest example of grazing with Icelandic ponies in the Netherlands. The Soerendonks Goor and Gastelse Heide area is home, among other species, to nightjars, natterjack toads and butterflies from the hairstreak family; their presence may vary seasonally. The timing differs: grazing was introduced in 1972, while species sightings change with the seasons. If you are particularly interested in these species, take the time of year into account when planning your visit.

Cycling and Walking

The Smokkelroute follows the cycling node network and can be ridden in either direction. One highlight of the route is the De Strijper Aa stream on Kluisweg in Gastel. The Ponyloopje walking route has another starting point at the car park on Kluisweg in Gastel, where parking is available. The distinction for planning purposes is clear: the Smokkelroute provides information about the cycling network and direction of travel, while the Ponyloopje has another named walking start with parking available. This can help you decide whether you would rather explore Gastel by bike or on foot.

Discover more destinations: Maarheeze, Budel-Dorplein, Cranendonck, Budel and Soerendonk.

Back to the main travel overview: Cranendonck.