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Turnhouts Vennengebied: A Natural Tapestry of Heath and Water

Explore the serene beauty of Turnhout's fenlands: hike, birdwatch, and discover rare species in this protected natural haven.

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The Turnhouts Vennengebied, or Turnhout Fen Area, is a sprawling nature reserve just north of Turnhout, Belgium, characterized by its diverse landscape of heathland, fens, grasslands, and forests. This unique area offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in nature, with opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the tranquility of the countryside.

A brief summary to Turnhouts Vennengebied

Local tips

  • Wear appropriate footwear, as some areas can be wet and muddy, especially after rain.
  • Visit the observation tower for panoramic views of the heathland and surrounding areas.
  • Stop by the visitor center 'Klein Engeland' for maps, information, and to start your hike.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is home to diverse bird species.
  • Check the Natuurpunt website for trail closures during breeding season.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Klein Engelandhoeve visitor center, several marked walking routes begin. Follow the signs for the Vennenwandeling (7.7 km) or the Vensterwandeling (3.4 km) to explore the area's highlights. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as trails can be muddy.

  • Public Transport

    From Turnhout train station, take bus line 1, 2, 21, 212, 416, 435, 33, 43B, 47, 49, or X41. Get off at a stop near Klein Engeland (check De Lijn website for the most accurate route and schedule). From there, it's a short walk to the visitor center and the start of the trails. A single bus fare within Turnhout is approximately €2.50.

  • Taxi

    From Turnhout city center, a taxi to Klein Engeland will cost approximately €15-€20, depending on the exact location and time of day. Taxi services are available in Turnhout, including Bob Taxi Turnhout. Be aware that fares may be higher during evenings and weekends.

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Discover more about Turnhouts Vennengebied

The Turnhouts Vennengebied, loosely translated as the Marshes of Turnhout, is a remarkable nature area located a few kilometers north of Turnhout, near the Dutch border. This expansive landscape, stretching between the communities of Merksplas and Ravels, forms part of the wider European Campine region and represents a valuable remnant of a once-vast heathland. The area's unique character stems from its varied habitats, including heathland, oligotrophic ponds, and species-rich Nardus grasslands. The underlying clay layer creates a naturally wet environment, resulting in numerous fens and moorlands, while relicts of inland dunes contribute dry, nutrient-poor sandy soils. This mosaic of habitats supports a diverse array of plant and animal life, including several rare and endangered species. Visitors can explore the Turnhouts Vennengebied via a network of marked hiking trails, totaling around 30 km. These trails wind through the diverse landscapes, offering opportunities to observe the unique flora and fauna of the region. An observation tower provides panoramic views of the area, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the scale and beauty of the Turnhouts Vennengebied. The visitor center 'Klein Engeland' serves as a starting point for many explorations, offering information and resources for walkers. The Turnhouts Vennengebied plays a crucial role in environmental conservation, helping to conserve rainwater, prevent flooding, and store carbon. It is part of the Natura 2000 network, recognizing its importance as a protected area in Europe.

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