De Flaes, Het Goor and De Hertgang Loop

Starting from the vicinity of Esbeek, a small village in North Brabant, the De Flaes, Het Goor and De Hertgang Loop offers a gentle 8 km (about 5 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near Landgoed De Utrecht, a well-known estate and nature reserve, which is easily reached by car from Tilburg or Eindhoven. For those using public transport, buses from Tilburg or Eindhoven stop in Esbeek, from where it’s a short walk to the starting point.

Navigating the Route

The loop is well-marked, but for added confidence and route details, HiiKER provides comprehensive navigation tools and offline maps. The terrain is predominantly flat, with wide sandy paths and occasional boardwalks over wetter sections, ensuring a comfortable walk throughout the year.

Natural Highlights and Wildlife

The route meanders through a mosaic of heathland, pine forests, and tranquil wetlands. Early on, you’ll skirt the edges of De Flaes, a serene lake bordered by reeds and home to waterfowl such as grebes and herons. The trail then leads into Het Goor, a marshy area rich in biodiversity—look for dragonflies, frogs, and, in spring, carpets of wildflowers. De Hertgang, a patchwork of open fields and woodland, is frequented by roe deer and foxes, especially at dawn and dusk.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

At approximately 2 km (1.2 miles), you’ll pass the Flaestoren, a striking wooden observation tower rising above the treetops. Climb the tower for panoramic views over the surrounding nature reserve and spot the mosaic of lakes and forests that define this landscape. Continuing through the estate, you’ll encounter remnants of historic drainage ditches and old farmsteads, reminders of the area’s agricultural past.

Historical Significance

Landgoed De Utrecht was established in the late 19th century by an insurance company as a model estate, transforming former heathland into productive forest and farmland. Many of the pine plantations and drainage systems you see today date back to this period, and the estate’s careful management has preserved both natural and cultural heritage.

Trail Logistics and Preparation

With a total distance of 8 km (5 miles) and no significant climbs, the loop is suitable for families and casual walkers. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially after rain when sections can be muddy. There are several benches and picnic spots along the way, particularly near the lake and observation tower. Facilities are limited, so bring water and snacks. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash in sensitive wildlife areas.

For navigation, download the route on HiiKER before setting out, as mobile signal can be patchy in the denser forest sections. The trail is open year-round, but spring and autumn offer the most vibrant scenery and wildlife activity.