Audio Guide of Oisterwijk Forests and Lakes

The nature reserve is open to visitors from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year, for walking and enjoying the landscape. The visitor center (Groot Speijck Visitor Center) is usually open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10:00 to 17:00, where you can get maps and detailed information on its official website.

Access to the trails in the Oisterwijk Forests and Lakes is completely free for all visitors. However, please note that if you arrive by car, parking near the visitor center has a daily fee unless you are a member of Natuurmonumenten.

To enjoy a complete experience by following one of the main trails and admiring the lakes, we recommend setting aside between 2 and 3 hours. If you plan to have a picnic, visit Groot Speijck, or listen to our audio guide at a relaxed pace, consider spending half a day.

This area is famous for its dozens of small lakes and ponds, many of which were formed after the last Ice Age or through historical peat extraction. It is a landscape of great cultural and ecological value in North Brabant, protected since the early 20th century to preserve its unique biodiversity.

Autumn is spectacular for the contrast of copper-toned colors reflected in the water, although spring offers vibrant wildlife. To avoid crowds and capture the best photos with mystical mist over the lakes, we suggest going early in the morning at dawn.

Yes, the reserve has paved paths and specific routes, such as the family route near the visitor center, suitable for wheelchairs and strollers. You can check accessibility and specific services on the Natuurmonumenten website before you go.

Very close by is the famous Koningshoeven Abbey, where La Trappe Trappist beer is brewed, a must-visit for food and drink lovers. You can also visit the charming center of the village of Oisterwijk, known as the 'Pearl in the Green,' full of terraces and art galleries.

Wear comfortable waterproof footwear, as some trails can be muddy, and do not forget your binoculars for watching water birds. We recommend starting your route at Groot Speijck Visitor Center to have a coffee and choose the color-coded trail that best fits your schedule.