Oisterwijkse Bossen en Vennen Oisterwijk - Nature

The Oisterwijkse Bossen en Vennen are a beautiful nature reserve located in the province of North Brabant, in the south of the Netherlands. The area is approximately 750 hectares in size and consists of extensive forests, heaths, fens and streams.

The area has a long history. In the Middle Ages it was a peat area that was reclaimed for agriculture and peat extraction. In the 19th century, the area was rediscovered by artists and writers, who were inspired by the rustic beauty of the landscape. In the 20th century, the area was purchased by the government and transformed into a nature reserve.

The Oisterwijkse Bossen en Vennen offer a varied landscape consisting of forest, heathland, fens and streams. There are more than ten fens in the area, each of which has its own unique characteristics. There is the beautiful Huisven, which is known for its crystal clear water and its rich underwater life. The Belversven is another popular fen surrounded by heath and pine forest.

The area is not only rich in flora and fauna, but also in cultural history. For example, traces of peat extraction from the past can still be found in various places in the area, such as ditches and peat pits. There are also some monumental buildings, such as the Kerkhovense mill, which is still in operation and can be visited.