Attractions and Places To See in Malpie - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Malpie, located near Valkenswaard in the Netherlands, is a nature reserve known for its diverse ecosystems. The area features extensive heathland, numerous fens, and forests, with the Dommel River flowing through it. It offers a variety of natural beauty and historical elements for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see in Malpie
- The most popular attractions is Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven, a bridge that winds through the wet heathland. It provides a unique way to experience the fens, particularly at Groot Malpieven, offering picturesque views.
- Another must-see spot is Heather Landscape in De Malpie, an extensive area of heathland and fens. This area includes the Malpiebeemden and Malpiebossen, offering diverse ecosystems and views of the lake.
- Visitors also love Malpievennen Trail, a trail through an open landscape with winding paths. It offers views of the Malpie ven and can be adventurous with its water features.
- Malpie is known for its heathland, fens, and forests. The region offers a variety of outdoor activities and natural features to explore.
- The attractions in Malpie are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and more than 80 photos shared.
Last updated: June 22, 2026
Heather Landscape in De Malpie
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Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven
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Malpievennen Trail
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Cycle path through the De Malpie nature reserve
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Groot Malpieven
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Tips from the Community
This walk takes you along the beautiful boardwalk at Groot Malpieven, in the heart of the De Malpie nature reserve near Valkenswaard. The boardwalk winds through the wet heathland and along the fen, offering unique views of the water and the surrounding fields. In clear weather, the clouds and heather reflect in the fen, creating a picturesque backdrop that changes with each season. Groot Malpieven is one of the largest and most beautiful fens in the region. It was formed during the last ice age, when meltwater and wind formed the subsoil into these wet depressions. Today, the fen is an important habitat for dragonflies, frogs, salamanders, and countless waterfowl. In summer, the flowering heathlands create a sea of purple hues, while autumn lends the area a tranquil, mysterious atmosphere. The boardwalks make this natural area easily accessible, even where the ground is marshy and boggy. The feeling of "walking on water" gives this walk a special touch, allowing you to experience the fragility and beauty of the fen up close. Looking closely, you'll also see the influence of traditional landscape management practices: grazing with sheep and cattle ensures that the heathland remains open and the area doesn't become overgrown with forest. This is how this valuable heathland landscape is preserved.
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The Malpievennen route takes you through one of North Brabant's most beautiful nature reserves: the Malpie, located south of Valkenswaard along the Dommel River. This landscape is known for its interplay of fens, heathlands, and forests. It is a dynamic area where water, sand, and heathland meet and are constantly changing. The walk often begins at the Dommel River, which here still meanders through the landscape. From the banks, you have beautiful views of the river and the surrounding wet grasslands. The path then leads you past the Malpievennen, a series of picturesque fens that have a different character in every season. In summer, the heather blooms purple and reflects in the water, while in autumn, mist and changing leaves create an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The Malpie is also rich in flora and fauna. The fens are home to dragonflies, frogs, and sometimes even waterfowl such as grebes and grebes. On the heathland, you'll encounter grazing animals, which are employed to keep the landscape open. Birdwatchers can spot woodpeckers, stonechats, and sometimes even the rare nightjar. What makes this route particularly special is the transition between heathland and river landscape. The contrast between the wet fens, dry sandy soil, and the flowing water of the Dommel River makes the walk very varied.
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Beautiful nature and nice cycle path
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It is a beautiful nature reserve
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Beautiful spring bird sounds including Cuckoo and Bittern
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The peace and quiet and the sound of birds
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Nice sandy road with a bit of boardwalk, no problem to walk, huge challenge to limit the number of photos you want to take of the beautiful landscape. No bikes here!
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nice cycle path with children ride one behind the other because there are a few sharp bends where you can't see oncoming traffic in borkel there are 2 cozy cafes with terrace
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the prominent natural features to explore in Malpie?
Malpie is renowned for its extensive heathland and numerous fens, such as Molenven, Wasven, Pastoorsven, Vaarvennen, and the prominent Groot Malpieven. The area also features diverse forests and the flowing Dommel River. You can experience the wet heathland and fens directly via the Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven, which winds through the wet heathland.
Are there good hiking trails in Malpie?
Yes, Malpie is an excellent destination for hiking, offering well-maintained networks of paths, including sandy and paved trails, and wooden boardwalks. The Malpievennen Trail is a popular option, offering views of the Malpie ven. For more hiking options, you can explore various routes in the region, including those listed in the Hiking in Malpie guide.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Malpie?
The diverse ecosystems of Malpie, including open heathland, moist grasslands, and fens, attract a wide array of wildlife. You might spot various bird species like the European Stonechat, Wood Lark, Bluethroat, and Little Grebe. Dragonflies and butterflies are also common, and a large black-headed gull colony can be found in the Vaarvennen. The area is also home to bats, with specific cellars housing big-eared and natterer's bats.
Are there any historical landmarks in Malpie?
Yes, the Venbergse Watermill is a significant historical landmark located at the northern entrance of the area on the Dommel River. Believed to have been built between 850 and 900 AD, it serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the nature reserve and offers a place for refreshments.
What activities are available for families in Malpie?
Malpie offers several family-friendly attractions and activities. The Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven and the Malpie Ponds Boardwalk provide accessible ways to explore the fens. The area's well-maintained paths are suitable for family walks and cycling. Canoeing on the Dommel River is also a popular family activity.
Can I go cycling in Malpie?
Yes, Malpie is a popular destination for cyclists, with well-maintained networks of paths. A well-paved cycle path runs through the Heather Landscape in De Malpie, offering beautiful views. You can find more cycling routes in the Cycling in Malpie guide.
What is the best time to visit Malpie?
Malpie offers picturesque views that change with the seasons. The heathland is particularly beautiful when it blooms, typically in late summer (August-September). Spring brings new growth and active wildlife, while autumn offers vibrant colors. The boardwalks and trails are enjoyable year-round, though some paths can be muddy after rain.
Are there cultural sites near Malpie?
While Malpie itself is a nature reserve, the nearby town of Valkenswaard offers cultural experiences. The Rijtuigenmuseum Valkenswaard (Carriage Museum) is an interactive museum featuring historical carriages. Other museums in the vicinity include Museumkwartier Carolus, Nederlands Steendrukmuseum, and the Valkerij en Sigarenmakerij museum.
What makes the Malpie heathland unique?
The heathland in Malpie is one of the last remaining original heathland areas in Brabant. It consists of both wet and dry heath, forming a unique biotope for various plant species like common heather and bluebell bush. The heathland is interspersed with fens and sand drifts, creating a diverse and dynamic landscape.
What do visitors enjoy most about Malpie?
Visitors frequently praise Malpie for its quiet and beautiful natural environment, especially the extensive heathland and fens. The Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven is particularly popular for its unique views. Many appreciate the well-maintained trails for hiking and cycling, and the opportunity to enjoy nature away from crowds.
Can I go running in Malpie?
Yes, Malpie offers various routes suitable for running. The natural landscape provides a scenic backdrop for your run. You can find several running trails, including loops around the fens, in the Running Trails in Malpie guide.
Where can I find more information about Malpie and the surrounding area?
For additional details about Malpie and its attractions, you can visit the official tourism websites for the region. Check VisitBrabant or VisitValkenswaard for more information on local points of interest and activities.
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