Best attractions and places to see in Lange Bleek are found within a diverse and picturesque natural landscape in the municipality of Heeze-Leende, Netherlands. This region is renowned for its varied environment, featuring expansive heather fields, shifting sand dunes, and numerous fens. It offers a wealth of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts, making it an ideal destination for exploring its unique terrain.
Last updated: July 5, 2026
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De Lange Bleek is a nature reserve of approximately 170 hectares. It is a woodland area with two patches of heathland and a fen named Bultven. The area consists primarily of coniferous forest. In the coming years, the forest will be transformed into a more open woodland landscape, with greater variation in forest type and more openness. The area is partly grazed by cattle and sheep. The Great Grey Shrike has been breeding there for about five years (3 territories). The Great Grey Shrike is present every winter. The wolf also lives in this area. Other birds that can be seen there include the Coal Tit, Crested Tit, Tree Pipit, Yellow Bunting, Stonechat, Mistle Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher, Common Redstart, Great Spotted Woodpecker, and Black Woodpecker.
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Beautiful nature reserve with free-roaming wildlife. And a bit of history
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The exmoor pony or simply exmoor is a subspecies of the wild horse (Equus ferus)[1]. The Exmoor is a small and austere pony, which has survived in the UK in an extensively managed environment. The Exmoor pony still lives on in wild herds, with natural behaviour, in the Exmoor National Park. Exmoor ponies are characterized by their light or dark brown coat with a flour snout. They are used for grazing in nature reserves and, with the right training, as a versatile pony for children.
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Entrance area of the Exmoor ponies and Scottish Highlanders.
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The Strabrechtse Heide is a nature reserve of approximately 1500 ha in the Dutch municipalities of Heeze-Leende, Someren and Geldrop-Mierlo (province of North Brabant), largely managed by Staatsbosbeheer. The heath derives its name from the hamlet of Strabrecht near Heeze.
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South of the Provincialeweg main road, the “Lange Bleek” forest area awaits us. Pause on a very fresh "memorial bench" with a heartfelt dedication. We've hardly unpacked our snacks when suddenly horses step out of the forest and head for Bultven, the waterhole. The spectacle that is now beginning, which we will follow for half an hour or more, spellbound, lonely and undisturbed, with eyes and cameras, is one of the really impressive experiences of the day. A "real" herd of wild horses with a lead mare moves leisurely through the dwindling water world. Especially the foals rolling in the dust make a wonderful spectacle. The feeling of freedom blows through the bush. Eventually the herd pulls out of our vantage point; later we find their fresh tracks on our way, follow them until they turn west, while we continue east to the Somerensche Heide.
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South of the Provincialeweg main road, the “Lange Bleek” forest area awaits us. Pause on a very fresh "memorial bench" with a heartfelt dedication. We've hardly unpacked our snacks when suddenly horses step out of the forest and head for Bultven, the waterhole. The spectacle that is now beginning, which we will follow for half an hour or more, spellbound, lonely and undisturbed, with eyes and cameras, is one of the really impressive experiences of the day. A "real" herd of wild horses with a lead mare moves leisurely through the dwindling water world. Especially the foals rolling in the dust make a wonderful spectacle. The feeling of freedom blows through the bush. Eventually the herd pulls out of our vantage point; later we find their fresh tracks on our way, follow them until they turn west, while we continue east to the Somerensche Heide.
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Lange Bleek is renowned for its diverse natural landscape. You can discover expansive fields of bell and common heather, shifting sand dunes, and numerous fens. A prominent feature is Bultven, a significant lake or waterhole, and the broader Lange Bleek forest area itself, which is home to free-roaming wildlife.
The best place to observe wild horses is around Bultven. Visitors often have the unique opportunity to see a herd of wild horses, including foals, moving leisurely through the waterhole. Additionally, you might encounter Exmoor ponies, a wild horse subspecies, grazing in the nature reserve.
Yes, Lange Bleek offers several family-friendly experiences. Observing the wild horses at Bultven or spotting Exmoor ponies are captivating for all ages. The diverse natural landscape with its fens, sand dunes, and forests provides ample opportunities for easy walks and nature exploration, making it suitable for families.
Beyond the wild horses and Exmoor ponies, Lange Bleek is rich in wildlife. The heathlands are home to a herd of Kempisch heath sheep and various cattle breeds. The fens are particularly known for a multitude of dragonfly species, and visitors might also spot moor frogs, natterjack toads, and a rich variety of birdlife, including the Great Grey Shrike.
While primarily a natural reserve, Lange Bleek does feature elements of a cultural landscape. You can find old farmhouses that contribute to its appearance. The Monument De Drie Kruizen (The Three Crosses Monument) is also mentioned as a point of interest within the area, suggesting local historical significance.
Lange Bleek is an ideal destination for various outdoor activities. Hiking and cycling are very popular, with numerous trails catering to different fitness levels. You can find many routes for easy hikes, mountain biking, and running, allowing you to explore the diverse landscapes.
Yes, Lange Bleek offers several easy hiking options. For instance, you can find routes like the 'Bultven – Large Oak on the Langen Bleek loop' or 'Exmoor ponies in the forest – Large Oak on the Langen Bleek loop' which are classified as easy. More options are available in the Easy hikes in Lange Bleek guide.
Absolutely. Lange Bleek and its surroundings offer several mountain biking trails. You can find routes like 'Keelven, Strabrechtse Heide – MTB Route Along Keelven loop' which range from easy to moderate difficulty. For more details, check the MTB Trails in Lange Bleek guide.
The landscape of Lange Bleek is uniquely diverse, featuring a blend of expansive heather fields, shifting sand dunes ('stuifduintjes'), and numerous fens ('vennetjes'). This variety, combined with its forests and the presence of free-roaming wildlife, creates a picturesque and ever-changing environment that is considered one of the most beautiful in the region.
While the guide data doesn't explicitly state 'dog-friendly trails,' nature reserves like Lange Bleek often have specific rules regarding dogs to protect wildlife. It's advisable to check local signage or the municipality's website for current regulations on dog walking, especially concerning leash requirements and restricted areas near grazing animals or sensitive habitats.
Lange Bleek is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit often depends on what you wish to experience. The heather fields are particularly stunning when in bloom, typically in late summer (August-September). Spring offers the chance to see foals and young wildlife, while autumn provides vibrant colors. The diverse landscape makes it enjoyable in any season.
The area around Bultven is a highly recommended viewpoint, especially for observing the wild horses. The varied landscapes, including the expansive heather fields and fens, offer numerous scenic spots for photography and enjoying the natural beauty. The skies above Lange Bleek are often described as resembling large-scale paintings, enhancing the natural vistas.
Visitors frequently highlight the opportunity to witness free-roaming wildlife, especially the wild horses at Bultven, as a truly impressive experience. The beautiful and diverse nature reserve itself, with its forests, fens, and heather, is also highly appreciated for its tranquility and the feeling of freedom it evokes.


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