Hazeldonk, Oeijenbraak and Vierken Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Hazeldonk, a small hamlet near the Dutch-Belgian border, this loop trail covers approximately 35 km (about 21.7 miles) with virtually no elevation gain, making it an accessible route for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Hazeldonk border crossing, which is easily reached by car via the A16 motorway. For those using public transport, buses from Breda central station stop at Hazeldonk, providing a straightforward connection for hikers arriving by train.

Route Overview and Navigation

The loop weaves through a patchwork of Dutch and Belgian countryside, passing through the tranquil woodlands of Oeijenbraak and the open fields of Vierken. The terrain is predominantly flat, with well-maintained dirt and gravel paths, occasional paved sections, and stretches through agricultural land. Navigation is straightforward, but due to the cross-border nature and occasional unmarked junctions, using HiiKER for offline maps and waypoints is highly recommended.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Shortly after leaving Hazeldonk, the route enters the Oeijenbraak forest, a serene woodland known for its tall beech and oak trees. In spring and early summer, the forest floor is carpeted with wildflowers, and birdwatchers may spot woodpeckers, nuthatches, and the occasional roe deer. After about 8 km (5 miles), the trail skirts the edge of the forest and opens up to the Vierken area, characterized by expansive meadows and small canals typical of the Brabant landscape.

At approximately 15 km (9.3 miles), the route passes near the historic hamlet of Meerle, just across the Belgian border. This area has a rich agricultural history, with traditional farmhouses and small chapels dotting the landscape. The border itself is marked by old customs posts and boundary stones, remnants of the region’s shifting national lines over the centuries.

Nature and Wildlife

The flat, open fields between Oeijenbraak and Vierken are home to a variety of birdlife, including storks, herons, and kestrels. In wetter months, the low-lying meadows can become marshy, attracting frogs and dragonflies. The trail also passes several small ponds and drainage ditches, which are important habitats for amphibians and waterfowl.

Facilities and Logistics

There are limited facilities directly on the trail, so hikers should carry sufficient water and snacks. The villages of Hazeldonk and Meerle offer small cafés and shops, but opening hours can be irregular, especially on weekends. Public toilets are scarce, so plan accordingly. The flat terrain and absence of significant elevation (total gain is negligible, less than 10 metres or 33 feet) make this loop suitable for all fitness levels, but the distance requires good stamina and comfortable footwear.

Historical Significance

The Hazeldonk region has long served as a borderland between the Netherlands and Belgium, with a history of smuggling and trade dating back centuries. The customs houses and old border markers along the route are silent witnesses to this past. During World War II, the area was a strategic crossing point, and some bunkers and memorials can still be found hidden in the woods.

For those seeking a long, easy walk through a landscape rich in natural beauty and subtle historical echoes, this loop offers a rewarding day out.