4.1
(239)
14,419
runners
13
runs
Jogging in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving offers diverse running experiences across a sprawling nature reserve. The region features extensive wet and dry heathland, open inland dunes, and shallow fens, alongside belts of oak-birch and pine forests. Trails are predominantly unpaved, providing a natural running surface through varied terrain, including long avenues, narrow single tracks, and sections around an old clay pit. The landscape, shaped by restoration efforts, presents a mix of flat and gently hilly sections, with some routes incorporating…
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(1)
78
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.0
(1)
76
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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25
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
17
runners
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(1)
14
runners
4.92km
00:31
10m
10m
Easy run. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving
From the bicycle/pedestrian bridge you have a beautiful view over the canal
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Hey ... and in Colonie7, a beautiful location on the large farm (currently under restoration) you can take a break with a Vagebond beer!
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A road worthy of its name. Oxen are not to be seen here. They are literally gone. "Ossenweg". A journey to relax.
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On Saturdays it is very quiet to walk here.
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It's great to hit the pause button here. People come, people go and others pedal forward on the track. Just people watching...
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To prevent the increase in escape attempts, a ring moat was dug from 1893 onwards, approximately 10 meters wide and almost 7 km long. The mapped out walk 'The Escape Path' follows this ring moat / ring wall.
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Small bascule bridge and beautiful bike path on the canal.
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Quiet and beautifully landscaped roadway. Ideal for an endurance ride
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Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving offers a wide selection of over 850 running routes. These range from easy paths to more challenging trails, ensuring there's something for every runner.
Yes, Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving features 55 easy running routes, perfect for beginners or those looking for a relaxed jog. These trails often provide a gentle introduction to the reserve's beautiful landscapes.
Absolutely. Many of the running paths in the reserve are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. For example, the Eksterheide Nature Reserve loop from Natuurreservaat Eksterheide en omgeving is a popular 9.9 km option. The region research also highlights a dedicated 'Natuurloop' of 7.2 km that winds through the Eksterheide.
The terrain in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving is quite varied, with 95% of the trails being unpaved. You'll encounter a mix of long, straight avenues, narrow single tracks, sections around an old clay pit, and even parts that traverse a former motocross track with loose sand. Some areas can be gently hilly or include laid wooden paths, offering diverse challenges and scenery.
While the guide doesn't specify exact rules for dogs, nature reserves typically permit dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and maintain the natural environment. It's always best to check local signage upon arrival for any specific regulations regarding pets.
Many of the easier and moderate routes can be enjoyed with family. The varied landscape and wildlife spotting opportunities make for an engaging experience. Consider shorter, less challenging paths like De Pomp loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel, which is a moderate 5.1 km route.
The reserve boasts diverse natural features. You can run through extensive wet and dry heathland, open inland dunes, and shallow fens. The area also has oak-birch and pine forests. Keep an eye out for wildlife, and you might spot various birds or even deer. There are also three bird-watching huts strategically placed within the reserve for wildlife observation, such as the Eksterheide observation hide.
While specific parking locations aren't detailed in the guide, the main 'Natuurloop' route is noted to start at the intersection of Konijnenstraat and Reeënstraat in Beerse. This suggests parking facilities may be available in that vicinity or nearby access points to the reserve.
The running routes in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.1 stars from over 190 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse natural settings, the predominantly unpaved surfaces, and the peaceful atmosphere of the reserve.
Yes, the region research indicates that the 7.2 km 'Natuurloop' through Eksterheide can be combined with another green loop through the nearby Kievitsheide. This allows for longer runs and increases the variety of your running environment.
Beyond the natural beauty, you might encounter interesting spots like the Duivelskuil Pond or De Pomp/Poelberg. The reserve itself is a testament to ecological restoration, transforming a former airfield back into a natural habitat, which can be observed at the Old Airfield becomes heathland highlight.
One of the longer routes you can explore is the Colony - Eastern Rampart – Merksplas Colony loop from Natuurreservaat Eksterheide en omgeving, which spans 12.3 km and typically takes about 1 hour and 25 minutes to complete.


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