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Turnhout

Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied

Routes
Places to see
Lakes
Belgium
Flanders
Antwerp
Turnhout

Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied

Top 4 Lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied

Best lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied are part of a significant heathland area in the province of Antwerp, Belgium, recognized for its distinctive fens, heath, and grasslands. This unique landscape is a vital habitat within the European Natura 2000 network, supporting numerous rare plant and animal species. The reserve offers extensive walking and cycling routes, providing opportunities to explore its diverse ecosystems and observe wildlife. It is characterized by oligotrophic ponds, which are nutrient-poor and support specialized flora.

Best lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied

  • The most popular lakes is View from the Kleine Klotteraard viewing tower, a viewpoint that provides panoramic vistas over the fens and surrounding heathland. It offers a magnificent panoramic view of the Kleine & Grote Klotteraard fens and the surrounding heathland.
  • Another must-see spot is Bird-watching hide in Turnhouts Vennengebied Nature Reserve, a viewpoint. Visitors can observe various bird species and the changing natural scenery from this hide, which allows for quiet observation of the wildlife.
  • Visitors also love Wetlands, an other natural feature. It features marked hiking trails that allow dry access to the biotopes, including Koeiven and Paul De Vicq fen, which are habitats for many bird species and large grazers.
  • Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied is known for its distinctive fens and oligotrophic ponds. These nutrient-poor waters support rare plant species and diverse birdlife, making them ecologically important.
  • The lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 120 upvotes and more than 60 photos shared.

Last updated: July 8, 2026

Bird-watching hide in Turnhouts Vennengebied Nature Reserve

Highlight • Viewpoint

A moment for yourself when you take a seat behind the viewing wall.
Just enjoy the scene that is playing in front of you.
Each season has its own performance in a larger play.

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Enjoy a breathtaking panorama from the top of the lookout tower of the Turnhouts Vennengebied.

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Wetlands

Highlight (Segment) • Natural

Hiking trail ensures that you can enjoy the biotopes dry.
The Koeiven and the Paul De Vicq fen are habitats for many bird species and large grazers.

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Paul De Vicq Pond

Highlight • Lake

In grateful tribute to Baron-Colonel Paul de Vicq de Cumptich who had lost his heart to nature, especially the domain of Little England.
A good friend of landscape painter René Degroux has also captured this location on canvas.
Candidates can enjoy this fen or muse on the nearby bench with a view of the Koeiven

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wonderful stay

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Hiking in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied

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Tips from the Community

Rudy en Thor
February 25, 2025, Wetlands

Beautiful ponds for bird lovers to view, from the viewing wall or from a bench

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Enjoy a breathtaking panorama from the top of the lookout tower of the Turnhouts Vennengebied.

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15

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A top breeding ground, the cows...

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wonderful stay

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Here in the nature reserve you can watch the hustle and bustle on and around the lake from the tower at any time of the year.

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12

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Nice area for walking with a separate vantage point. In the area there are all corten steel plates with texts

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So a cow wall :) We were already wondering what it was hahaha

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6

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Beautiful area. At the time I visited the noise of the birds was overwhelming.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see around the lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied?

The reserve is a vital habitat for numerous rare plant and animal species. You can observe a wide variety of birds, especially during autumn and winter when hundreds of ducks gather at Zwart Water. Other fens like Grote Klotteraard are known as 'maternity wards' for breeding birds. In spring, various amphibians such as common toads, brown frogs, and newts are active, while dragonflies are abundant in warmer months. Keep an eye out for large grazers in areas like the Wetlands.

Are there specific spots for birdwatching in the reserve?

Yes, Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied offers excellent birdwatching opportunities. There is a dedicated Bird-watching hide that allows for quiet observation of wildlife. Additionally, an observation tower located between Zwart Water and Hoogmoerheide provides great vantage points, and the Koeiven features a viewing screen for undisturbed bird observation.

What makes the fens in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied unique?

The fens in this reserve are characterized as oligotrophic ponds, meaning they are poor in nutrients. This creates ideal conditions for rare and specialized plant species, such as water lobelia and floating water plantain, which are endangered in Flanders and Europe. This unique ecological characteristic underscores the reserve's importance.

Where can I get the best panoramic views of the fens and surrounding heathland?

For magnificent panoramic views, visit the View from the Kleine Klotteraard viewing tower. This tower provides expansive vistas over the Kleine & Grote Klotteraard fens and the surrounding heathland, offering a breathtaking panorama of the area.

Are there easy walking routes around the lakes suitable for families?

Yes, the reserve offers several easy walking routes perfect for families. You can find options like the 'Fens Trail' or the 'Wetlands – Klein Engeland Farm loop'. These routes allow you to explore the diverse ecosystems, including fens like Koeiven and Paul De Vicq fen, which are habitats for many bird species. For more details on easy hikes, refer to the Easy hikes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied guide.

Can I go cycling near the lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied?

Absolutely. The reserve offers extensive cycling routes that allow you to explore its diverse ecosystems. You can find various routes, including easy options like the 'Langvenstraat; gravel – View of Zondereigen church loop'. For more cycling options, check out the Cycling in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied guide.

What other outdoor activities are available near the lakes?

Beyond walking and cycling, the area is also popular for mountain biking. There are several MTB trails available, ranging from moderate to difficult, such as the 'Bench on De Liereman Heath – Ravenpad Ramp at Bridge 6 loop'. You can find more information on these routes in the MTB Trails in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied guide.

When is the best time of year to visit the lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied?

The reserve offers unique experiences throughout the year. Autumn and winter are excellent for birdwatching, especially at Zwart Water, where many ducks gather. Spring is ideal for observing various amphibians, while dragonflies are abundant during the warmer months. Each season presents its own natural beauty and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Are there facilities like cafes or visitor centers near the lakes?

Yes, the Klein Engelandhoeve visitor center is located adjacent to Zandven and serves as an excellent starting point for various walking routes. This center is a hub for nature experiences, tourism, and cultural history, and likely offers facilities or information about nearby cafes.

How can I get to Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied by public transport?

While specific routes can vary, the reserve is accessible from Turnhout. You would typically look for local bus services that connect Turnhout to the vicinity of the nature reserve, such as near the Klein Engelandhoeve visitor center. It's advisable to check current local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Where can I park when visiting the lakes in Natuurreservaat Turnhouts Vennengebied?

The Turnhouts Venn area is equipped with parking facilities. A convenient starting point with parking is often near the Klein Engelandhoeve visitor center, which provides access to various walking routes through the reserve.

Can I bring my dog to the lakes in the reserve?

Many nature reserves have specific rules regarding dogs to protect wildlife. While some areas might allow dogs on a leash, others, especially sensitive breeding grounds or protected zones, may restrict access. It's best to check local signage or the official reserve website for the most current regulations on bringing dogs.

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