Best lakes around Baarle-Nassau are found within a landscape characterized by forests, fens, and heathlands, offering diverse natural experiences. The region, part of the Noorderkempen, features areas like the Mastbos and Regte Heide. These natural settings provide opportunities for exploration and quiet contemplation. Many of these lakes are remnants of historical peat extraction, now serving as important habitats.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
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You can see the observations at this birdwatching hut at: https://vogelkijkhut.nl/view/201/
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The Bootjesven is one of the most famous and beautiful spots in Wortel-Kolonie 🌿. 📍What is the Bootjesven? • It is a natural fen, surrounded by pine forests and heathland, in the heart of the tranquility of the Colony. • The name refers to the "boats" of peat moss that float on the water, giving the surface a fairytale-like appearance. • The fen is a vulnerable nature reserve: special plants such as cotton grass and sundew grow there, and you often find dragonflies and waterfowl there. • It is part of the Merkske Valley, a European Natura 2000 protected area. 🌿 Experience for hikers and cyclists • The Bootjesven is located along several beautiful hiking trails that start from the De Klapekster Visitor Center. • It is an ideal place to take a break and enjoy the peace and quiet and nature. • Because it is a sensitive area, walking on designated paths and not allowing dogs off the leash is important for the preservation of this unique natural environment.
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Andreas Schotel made many etchings of the life and work of the North Brabant farmers and farm workers (wikipedia)
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In the winter like now very wet. So you can easily paddle if you are unlucky. The fens are a bit bigger so to speak...
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The Bootjesven is a fen that was created by extracting peat. Peat was extracted on a large scale in the entire Noorderkempen region between the middle of the 13th and the 18th century. Peat is dried peat that was dug from the marshy peat areas. The extracted peat was laid out to dry and then used as a raw material. This location is now a large body of water where it is wonderful to stay. You can cool off up to your knees and no further. Swimming is prohibited.
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Don't forget your swimming trunks or swimsuit...
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After a junction number there follows bathing girls...
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A beautiful resting place in a beautiful natural setting. The food you bring with you tastes even better here and you can enjoy the nature and silence.😊 😀
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Yes, several lakes in the region are suitable for families. Turfven, Mastbos offers peaceful nature and hiking trails. The Picnic Spot at Goudbergven provides a relaxing setting with picnic tables. Additionally, the Tapsmoer Bird Hide is a great spot for families to observe birds and enjoy the views.
For walking and hiking, Turfven, Mastbos is highly recommended. It's known for its numerous hiking trails and peaceful natural environment within the Mastbos forest. The area around Tapsmoer Bird Hide on the Regte Heide also offers beautiful walks with opportunities for birdwatching.
The lakes and surrounding areas are rich in wildlife. At the Tapsmoer Bird Hide, you can observe various bird species and sometimes even deer. Bootjesven is a natural bog that serves as a habitat for dragonflies and water beetles, making it an interesting spot for nature observation.
Absolutely. The Picnic Spot at Goudbergven is specifically designed for relaxation, offering picnic tables by a fen. You can also find suitable spots to lay out a picnic blanket at the edge of Bootjesven, which is a natural biotope.
Yes, many of the fens and lakes in the region, such as Bootjesven and the area around Tapsmoer Bird Hide, are remnants of historical peat extraction that occurred between the 13th and 18th centuries. These sites now serve as important natural habitats.
Beyond walking, the area around Baarle-Nassau offers various outdoor activities. You can explore numerous running trails, road cycling routes, and gravel biking paths. For more details on routes, check out the guides for Running Trails around Baarle-Nassau, Road Cycling Routes around Baarle-Nassau, and Gravel biking around Baarle-Nassau.
Swimming is generally prohibited in many of the natural fens and bogs, such as Bootjesven, to protect the delicate natural environment and its inhabitants like dragonflies and water beetles. Always look for local signage regarding swimming regulations.
Yes, you can find the Baadster in Broekeling Sculptures near some of the natural areas. These sculptures, inspired by artist Andreas Schotel, add a unique cultural element to the landscape.
The lakes and surrounding nature reserves are beautiful year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and observing wildlife, while summer is ideal for picnics and enjoying the lush greenery. Even winter walks can be peaceful, especially in areas like the Mastbos.
While many lakes offer a natural, secluded experience, facilities like picnic tables are available at spots such as the Picnic Spot at Goudbergven. For cafes and more extensive facilities, you would typically find them in the nearby towns and villages, rather than directly at the remote lake edges.
The lakes in this region are often fens and bogs, many of which are remnants of historical peat extraction. They are nestled within a landscape of forests, fens, and heathlands, offering diverse natural experiences and serving as important habitats for various plant and animal species. The unique border situation of Baarle-Nassau also adds a distinct character to the surrounding areas.


Still not found your perfect lake around Baarle-Nassau? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.