The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving

Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving offers a good selection of family-friendly hikes, with 27 routes in total. Most of these, 20 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them ideal for families with children.

The reserve boasts a diverse landscape perfect for families. You'll encounter expansive heathlands, especially vibrant in August when in bloom, as well as varied forests including oak-birch and pine. There are also shallow fens (vennen) and unique boardwalks that offer a different walking experience. Keep an eye out for open fields and sand paths too.

Yes, there are several easy and shorter routes. For example, the Pond in the Blakheide – Het Blak bird hide loop from Sint-Jozef-Rijkevorsel is an easy 3.35 km hike. The region also features accessible paths like the 1.8 km Ekstergoorpad, which is suitable for strollers.

Families can discover several interesting spots. The Duivelskuil Pond is a notable feature, and you can even find a Picnic spot with a view of Duivelskuil. The Eksterheide Nature Reserve itself is a highlight, and you might spot the area where an Old Airfield becomes heathland as part of the ecological restoration efforts.

Absolutely! Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving is rich in biodiversity. You might see water birds, deer, and various bird species like hawks and black woodpeckers. There are even three observation huts designed for discreet wildlife viewing. Keep an eye out for Galloway cattle and Konik horses, which help manage the grazing.

Many of the trails in the reserve are circular, making them convenient for families. An easy option is the Het Blak bird hide – Pond in the Blakheide loop from Natuurreservaat Eksterheide en omgeving, which is just under 7 km and offers a pleasant round trip.

The reserve is beautiful year-round, but August is particularly special when the heathlands are in full bloom, creating stunning purple landscapes. Spring and early summer are also excellent for spotting diverse flora and fauna. Autumn offers beautiful colors, and even winter walks can be magical, especially on crisp, clear days.

Yes, the reserve is well-equipped for family outings. You'll find numerous picnic benches strategically placed along the routes, providing ideal spots to take a break and enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature.

The komoot community highly rates the trails in Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 4,600 ratings. Reviewers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the well-maintained paths, and the diverse natural beauty, making it a favorite for family excursions.

Natuurreservaat Eksterheide En Omgeving is generally dog-friendly, but it's always best to keep your dog on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Specific rules may vary by section, so look for signage at trailheads.

For families looking for a bit more of a challenge, there are moderate options available. The Duivelskuil Pond – Eksterheide Boardwalk loop from Duivelskuil is a moderate 8.28 km route that offers a great exploration of the area's features.