4.5
(144)
607
hikers
Witte Netevallei Red Trail
02:17
9.07km
10m
Hiking
Hike the Witte Netevallei Red Trail, a moderate 5.6-mile route through diverse landscapes, including swamp forests and hayfields.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
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2.62 km
Natural ponds
Highlight • Lake
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Tip by
2.76 km
Witch's House, Hekselien Path
Highlight • Rest Area
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3.34 km
Witches' Bath
Highlight • River
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Tip by
3.43 km
Viewing platform overlooking the Witte Nete Valley
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
3.86 km
Bridge over the branch of the Witte Nete
Highlight • Bridge
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Tip by
9.07 km
End point
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
5.96 km
1.48 km
765 m
584 m
269 m
Surfaces
3.34 km
2.38 km
2.24 km
681 m
387 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Tuesday 12 May
13°C
7°C
93 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 22.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the terrain like on the Witte Netevallei Red Trail?
The trail winds through a diverse landscape, including mysterious swamp forests, flower-rich hayfields, and wet marshes. You'll encounter unpaved paths, and some sections feature boardwalks, which may occasionally be under repair. Sturdy footwear is highly recommended, especially after rain, due to the prevalence of wet and marshy areas.
How long does it take to hike this trail?
The Witte Netevallei Red Trail is approximately 9.1 kilometers (5.6 miles) long and typically takes around 2 hours and 17 minutes to complete at a moderate hiking pace.
Is the trail suitable for beginners?
Rated as 'moderate' difficulty, the trail is generally accessible. However, given the varied terrain with unpaved and potentially wet sections, it's best suited for hikers with reasonable stamina and appropriate footwear. Some parts, like the Hekselienpad within the valley, are not suitable for strollers or wheelchairs.
What can I see along the route?
You'll discover several interesting points, including Natural ponds, the Witch's House on the Hekselien Path, and the Witches' Bath. Don't miss the Viewing platform overlooking the Witte Nete Valley and a charming Bridge over the branch of the Witte Nete with historical photo boards.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for the Witte Netevallei nature reserve?
Generally, there are no specific permits or entrance fees required to access the Witte Netevallei nature reserve for hiking. However, always check local regulations for any updates before your visit.
Is the Witte Netevallei Red Trail dog-friendly?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome on the trail. However, it's crucial to keep them on a leash to protect the local wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Be mindful of marshy areas and potential livestock.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
Spring is particularly beautiful, with cuckooflowers blooming in the grasslands and nightingales singing. Autumn offers vibrant colors. While accessible year-round, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially after rain, making sturdy waterproof footwear essential.
Where can I park to access the trailhead?
Specific parking information for the Witte Netevallei Red Trail is not detailed in the provided data, but access points to the Witte Netevallei nature reserve typically offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check local maps or visitor information centers for the most convenient starting points.
What kind of wildlife or plants can I expect to see?
The Witte Netevallei is rich in biodiversity. You might spot rare plants like snakeroot and animals such as kingfishers and spined loaches. In spring, look for purplish-white cuckooflowers and orange-tip butterflies, and listen for nightingales in the swamp forests.
Does this trail intersect with other hiking paths?
Yes, the route overlaps with several other trails. You'll find sections that are part of the Zeven Neten Route Groen, the Witte Netevallei - Rode Wandeling, and the Witte Netevallei - Gele wandeling, among others.
What should I bring for a hike on this trail?
Given the varied terrain and potential for wet conditions, sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are highly recommended. Additionally, bring water, snacks, a map or GPS device (like Komoot!), and appropriate clothing for the weather. Binoculars can enhance your wildlife viewing experience.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
Thanks to Peter and Joke. All car parks were full, so we started a little further.
Nice walk through the Noorderkempen. Around Retie. 80% dirt roads. Recommended.
Beautiful day for a walk in the area of the Witte-Kleine Nete. Departure at the car park of tavern Meulezicht, further along the south left bank of the watercourse. Further on over the Schaapschoorbrug the memorial of the Halifax victims of 1943 during the 2nd WW. Beautiful wide walking paths and forest paths bring us to the northernmost point of the walk on Geenend. After this follows a very beautiful part through a large piece of forest and along the right bank of the Desselse Neet and Witte Nete, over a fantastic long boardwalk, worth the effort. We return to our starting point via the wooden bridge over the mill arm. High time for a drink in tavern Meulezicht, fantastically well situated...
Today we had a nice walk again. And again in Belgium, namely at Arendonk / Retie. Start at the watermill and then into the Kabouter forest. Beautiful Hiking trail through a kind of swamp-like area. With a very long boardwalk in which fun play moments for children are recorded. A number of chapels and beautiful forest paths. Unfortunately the last part from the war memorial of a crashed English plane it started to rain. Too bad, but we were prepared for it. Definitely worth a walk. #MyKomootStory
Bitten by the White and Black Nete We are eager to discover the historic landscape of the White Nete Valley. Bitten by old stories, our walk, which is for 80% unpaved, starts at 't Vossekot – Geenend in Retie. Fortunately, it is only a short walk over the paved Geenend. Through the playful Boseindsebergen we navigate for a while between the company of adventurous mountain bikers. A little further on we taste the wonderful peace and quiet of the river landscape in the valley. The enchanting landscape mainly consists of swamp forests, meadows and soaking wet swamps. At the witch's house on the boardwalk we have an appointment with the witch Hekselien. Together we walk dry feet along the Zwarte Nete where we get acquainted with "den Haring, Viennese Putten and the Koeibemdekens". Playful wooden constructions invite you to discover the river up close. The rambunctious witch's bath can hardly fascinate us with these winter temperatures, the viewing platform over the Witte Nete, on the other hand, does. Here you will become acquainted with “The landscape of the Future”. We say goodbye to Hekselien and the historic river landscape. We fall under the spell of Retie's picturesque, milling grain water mill. Originally this water mill was a medieval ban mill (more info in the highlight). Lovely to relax here for a while. Lunch time. We return through the Beverdonkse Heide. In the mosaic landscape of forests, agricultural areas and open plains, we pay tribute at the Halifax Memorial. The tragedy that took place here on October 22, 1943 should never be forgotten. An R.A.F. bomber was shot out of the sky here and the seven crew members were killed. They gave their lives for our freedom. Via coniferous forests and the hamlet of Duinberg, the Sniederspad takes us back to 't Vossekot. Highly recommended for pedaling (water) in a historic landscape of that time. A golden advice, wear a waterproof shoe on each foot. The 'Vallei Witte en Zwarte Nete' is truly mouth-watering.
Walk in Retie, very beautiful! You start at the sports center, so there's plenty of parking. The first part takes you close to the Nete and then follows it for a while. Via small paths, sometimes wet and swampy, to a long beautiful and fun decking path. I liked the walk through Herwig, thanks man !
Took a walk in our own region today, this time in the beautiful Retie, beautiful forest walk and back along the Hesselienpad
A tour through the Kempen forests culminating in a beautiful passage through the Witte Netevallei.