Leeuwerkeneik, Ooijeyaarsnest and Regte Heide Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Goirle, Netherlands, this 11 km (about 6.8 miles) loop trail offers a gentle, flat walk with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers, including families and beginners. The trailhead is conveniently located near the intersection of Nieuwe Rielseweg and the edge of the Regte Heide nature reserve, easily reached by local bus from Tilburg Central Station to Goirle, followed by a short walk, or by car with parking available near the reserve entrance.

Navigating the Route

The loop is well-marked, but for added confidence and route details, HiiKER provides comprehensive navigation tools and offline maps. The path meanders through a patchwork of heathland, oak groves, and open meadows, with the landscape shifting subtly as you progress. Expect wide, sandy tracks and grassy paths, suitable for all-weather hiking.

Highlights and Landmarks

- Leeuwerkeneik: Early in the loop, you’ll pass through the Leeuwerkeneik area, named after the lark (leeuwerik) and oak (eik) trees that characterize this section. Listen for skylarks singing overhead in spring and summer, and look for ancient oaks that have stood for centuries. - Ooijeyaarsnest: Around the halfway mark, the trail skirts the Ooijeyaarsnest, a tranquil wetland area. This spot is a haven for birdlife, including herons, ducks, and sometimes even deer grazing at the water’s edge. Wooden observation platforms provide a perfect vantage point for wildlife watching. - Regte Heide: The final section leads you across the Regte Heide, a protected heathland renowned for its purple heather blooms in late summer. This area is also home to prehistoric burial mounds, or “grafheuvels,” dating back to the Bronze Age. Informational signs along the route explain the archaeological significance and the efforts to preserve these ancient sites.

Nature and Wildlife

Throughout the loop, the diversity of habitats supports a wide range of flora and fauna. In spring, wildflowers carpet the meadows, while autumn brings a flush of mushrooms beneath the trees. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of species, from woodpeckers in the oak groves to kestrels hovering above the heath. Roe deer and foxes are occasionally spotted at dawn or dusk.

Trail Preparation and Facilities

The terrain is mostly flat and easy underfoot, with no significant climbs or descents. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially after rain when some sections can be muddy. There are benches and picnic spots along the way, but no cafes or shops directly on the trail, so bring water and snacks. Public toilets are available at the main entrance to Regte Heide.

Getting There

By public transport, take a train to Tilburg Central Station, then bus 2 or 141 to Goirle, alighting at the “Nieuwe Rielseweg” stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the trailhead. For drivers, parking is available near the Regte Heide entrance on Nieuwe Rielseweg, just south of Goirle.

For navigation and up-to-date trail conditions, HiiKER is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable hike.