Top 7 Lakes in Malpie
Lakes in Malpie, located south of Valkenswaard in North Brabant, Netherlands, is a nature reserve characterized by a diverse landscape of heathland, forests, and numerous fens. This area is known for its ecological importance, providing habitats for various flora and fauna. The Malpievennen, a collection of fens, are a significant draw for visitors due to their natural beauty and varied scenery throughout the seasons. The reserve offers an attractive destination for outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
Best lakes in Malpie
- The most popular lakes is Heather Landscape in De Malpie, an other natural highlight that features 120 hectares of heathland and fens. A well-paved cycle path offers views of the lake and surrounding landscapes.
- Another must-see spot is Malpievennen Trail, a trail offering an open landscape with winding paths along the water. This sand route provides a scenic view of the Malpie ven.
- Visitors also love Molenven, a lake that was historically constructed and used as a fishpond. It is one of several larger fens in the Malpie nature reserve.
- Malpie is known for its fens, including natural river valley fens like Vaarvennen and historical fishponds such as Molenven and Pastoorsven. Visitors can explore a variety of fens, including the larger Groot Malpieven.
- The lakes in Malpie are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 400 upvotes and 80 photos shared by adventurers.
Last updated: April 25, 2026
Heather Landscape in De Malpie
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Malpievennen Trail
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De Malpie
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View of the Malpie Fens
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Beautiful view
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Tips from the Community
Relaxing space, even in autumn when the weather is drizzly.
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beautiful views over the fens with a bench and table and not to forget the bird with a book.
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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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It is a beautiful nature reserve
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beautiful open fen views with many different birds
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By far the most fascinating flora with beautiful changing colours here are the large thickets of bog myrtle which grows here in great numbers and was used in the past (and sometimes still is) for many applications including beer and medicine. Beautiful in spring.
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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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It is usually a bit busier here with the many benches and location on the cycle path so that the benches are quickly taken. A bit further, on the walking path in the sand, it is honestly more beautiful, wilder and often quieter. The view of the fen is beautiful to stand still for a while.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural features can I explore in Malpie?
Malpie is characterized by a diverse landscape of heathland, forests, and numerous fens, often referred to as lakes or ponds. You can explore areas like the Heather Landscape in De Malpie, which features 120 hectares of heathland and fens. The area also includes natural river valley fens like Vaarvennen and historical fishponds such as Molenven.
Are there family-friendly activities or trails around the Malpie lakes?
Yes, Malpie offers several family-friendly options. The Heather Landscape in De Malpie has a well-paved cycle path suitable for families. Additionally, the area around the Beautiful view highlight provides benches and picnic tables, perfect for a family rest stop.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Malpie?
The fens and heathlands of Malpie are a haven for wildlife. You might spot dragonflies, frogs, and various waterfowl like grebes in the fens. The heathlands are home to grazing animals, and birdwatchers can look for woodpeckers, stonechats, and even the rare nightjar. The Vaarvennen are particularly known for hosting a large black-headed gull colony.
What are the best times of year to visit the Malpie lakes?
The Malpievennen offer beautiful scenery throughout the seasons. Summer is ideal for seeing the blooming purple heather reflected in the water, while autumn brings a 'fairytale-like atmosphere' with mist and changing leaves. The area is attractive year-round for its natural beauty.
Are there hiking trails available near the Malpie lakes?
Absolutely. Malpie is an excellent destination for hiking. You can find numerous trails, including the Malpievennen Trail, which offers winding paths along the water. For more options, explore the Hiking in Malpie guide, which features routes like the 'Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven' and 'View of the Heidesee Fen'.
Can I go cycling around the Malpie lakes?
Yes, cycling is a popular activity. A well-paved cycle path runs through the Heather Landscape in De Malpie, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding areas. For more cycling routes, check out the Road Cycling Routes in Malpie guide, which includes routes like 'Groot Malpieven – Venbergse Watermill'.
What historical aspects are associated with the Malpie lakes?
Some fens in Malpie have historical significance. For instance, Molenven and Pastoorsven were historically constructed and used as fishponds. The name 'Malpie' itself was first mentioned in 1464, indicating a long history of human interaction with this natural landscape.
Where can I find a good viewpoint or resting spot in Malpie?
The highlight named Beautiful view offers a collection of benches and picnic tables overlooking a large pond. While it can be busy, it's a great spot to pause and enjoy the scenery. For a quieter experience, consider exploring walking paths further into the sand dunes near Groot Malpieven.
Are there any specific challenges or difficulties for walking around the Malpie lakes?
The Malpievennen Trail, a sand route, can be adventurous with winding paths and may become muddy if it has rained. While many trails are easy, some can be tough when the wind is blowing. Always check local conditions and wear appropriate footwear.
What do visitors enjoy most about Malpie?
Visitors appreciate the beautiful open landscapes, the adventurous winding paths, and the serene natural environment. Many enjoy the constantly changing scenery throughout the seasons, from blooming heather in summer to the 'fairytale-like atmosphere' of autumn. The quiet and special nature of the wet heathland and fens, such as De Malpie, are frequently highlighted.
Is there parking available near the Malpie lakes?
While specific parking locations are not detailed in the guide, Malpie is a popular nature reserve south of Valkenswaard. It is generally accessible for visitors, and you can often find designated parking areas at the entrances to such reserves. For detailed information on parking, it is advisable to consult local visitor information or maps.
Can I bring my dog to the Malpie lakes?
Malpie is a nature reserve popular for outdoor activities, and many nature areas in the Netherlands allow dogs, often on a leash. However, specific rules can vary. It's best to check local signage upon arrival or consult the official website of the De Groote Heide nature reserve park for the most current regulations regarding dogs.
Are there cafes or places to eat near the Malpie lakes?
The region research mentions the Venberg Watermill as a popular spot for a rest, which often implies nearby facilities like cafes. While not directly within the immediate vicinity of every fen, the area around Valkenswaard and popular trailheads typically offers options for refreshments.
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