From a recreational point of view Brunssum enjoys international fame because of an area of over 2000 hectares of heathland and woodland. In summer walkers can enjoy views of herds of sheep and the winter season offers langlauf skiers opportunities to practise their sports. The little stream 'Rode Beek', flowing through the silver sand plain, derives its name from traces of iron ore.

The Brunssummerheide is actually recognised moorland in the Dutch province of Limburg, in the eastern town of Brunssum and adjacent municipalities, including Brunssum, Heerlen and Landgraaf. The area is partly nature reserve (600 ha), partly recreational (including walking, cycling, golf and horseback riding) and partly for, among other hydrographic zilverzand and gravel. The Brunssummerheide is a nature reserve of Natuurmonumenten.