In the Herbertusbossen, a large estate forest behind Kasteel Heeze, there are beautiful old deciduous and coniferous trees. It is also the basin of the Sterkselse Aa, a strongly meandering stream. The forest is named after Herbertus van Heeze, the first Lord of Heeze.
Through wide avenues and forest paths along fens and moors you come to Nature Reserve the Strabrechtse Heide. With an area of over 1,850 hectares, it is the largest contiguous heathland in Brabant. Special plants grow around the fens and are teeming with dragonfly species, moor frogs and toads. The heathland is maintained in part by grazing with sheep and Scottish Highlanders. The sheepfold on the Plaetse is home to the flock of nearly 350 Kempische Heideschapen.
No less than six thousand acres of beautiful nature stretches from the south side of Eindhoven to across the Belgian border. The Strabrechtse Heide, the Leenderbos, De Malpie and Plateaux-Hageven and the Beverbeekse Heide are all part of this fine natural border park. And there's more...Across De Groote Heide runs an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. For a short trip, but certainly also for a full-day program here are further bridle paths, MTB and cycling routes to find. All this in a setting of beautiful and varied nature with forests, farmland, many moors and not to forget: water. Lots of water!
The stream valleys of the Warmbeek/Tongelreep, the Dommel and the Aa's all meander through this beautiful nature area. The landscape is further enriched by the picturesque village centers and dynamic city centers. As a starting or ending point of your route through nature, but also as an addition to your visit to the region. Whether you choose a cozy terrace or a visit to an interesting exhibition or museum or just want to enjoy shopping, you will be pleasantly surprised.
All this makes De Groote Heide a unique place to enjoy, unwind and recharge.
More about the Groote HeideThe Leenderbos is the largest nature reserve in De Groote Heide. It was originally heathland, but has turned into a production forest with mainly conifers. It provides a home for various animals and insects and is popular for recreation. The area has hiking and biking trails and a dog walking area. It is part of the Natura 2000 area and is protected. Bicycle trails in the area offer the opportunity to explore other natural areas and villages.
The Strabrechtse Heide is a vast nature reserve located in the southeastern part of the Netherlands. It is known for its diversity of landscapes, including vast heathlands, forests and fens. It is a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers and cyclists.
The heathlands of the Strabrechtse Heide are breathtaking and offer spectacular views, especially when the heather is in bloom. You can walk along winding paths and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature. It is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.
In addition to the heathlands, the Strabrechtse Heide is also home to extensive forests, which are rich in various tree species. It is an ideal place to walk and enjoy the shady paths, where you can listen to the rustling of the leaves and the many birds that have found their home there.
The fens on the Strabrechtse Heide add an extra dimension to the landscape. These wetlands are often surrounded by reeds and provide a habitat for a variety of plant and animal species. They are also ideal places to observe birds and enjoy the peaceful ambience.