Daatjeshoeve to Asten Walk

Starting from the welcoming grounds of Daatjeshoeve, a charming forest café nestled at the edge of the Strabrechtse Heide near Heeze in the Netherlands, this 18 km (about 11 miles) walk offers a gentle, flat journey through one of North Brabant’s most scenic heathland and woodland landscapes. With virtually no elevation gain, this route is accessible to hikers of all abilities and is especially suitable for those seeking a leisurely day out immersed in nature.

Getting There

Daatjeshoeve is easily accessible by both car and public transport. Drivers can park at the Daatjeshoeve car park, located at Somerenseweg 100, 5591 TN Heeze. For those using public transport, take a train to Heeze Station, then transfer to a local bus (such as line 173 towards Someren) and alight at the “Heeze, Daatjeshoeve” stop, which is just a short walk from the trailhead.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route is well-marked and follows a combination of sandy paths, forest tracks, and heather trails. For precise navigation and up-to-date trail conditions, use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and waypoints for this walk.

Strabrechtse Heide and Surroundings

The first section leads you into the heart of the Strabrechtse Heide, one of the largest contiguous heathlands in the Netherlands. In late summer, the heather blooms in vibrant purple, attracting photographers and nature lovers. The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including roe deer, foxes, and a rich diversity of birdlife such as the Eurasian skylark and the rare nightjar. Keep an eye out for grazing sheep, which help maintain the heathland ecosystem.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

- Grote and Kleine Aa Streams: About 4 km (2.5 miles) in, you’ll cross the serene waters of the Grote Aa and Kleine Aa, two streams that meander through the landscape and support a lush riparian habitat. - De Plaetse: Around the halfway mark, you’ll pass De Plaetse, a historic shepherd’s hamlet with traditional thatched buildings, offering a glimpse into the region’s pastoral heritage. - Asten: The walk concludes near the town of Asten, known for its impressive church tower and the Nationaal Beiaard- en Natuurmuseum (National Carillon and Nature Museum), which showcases the area’s cultural and natural history.

Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Highlights

The route traverses a mosaic of heath, woodland, and fen, with birch, oak, and pine providing shade along the way. In spring and autumn, look for migratory birds and the changing colors of the landscape. The wetlands attract dragonflies and amphibians, while the open heath is a haven for butterflies and bees.

Historical Significance

The Strabrechtse Heide has been shaped by centuries of grazing and peat cutting, and remnants of ancient field systems can still be seen in places. The shepherd’s hamlets and old farmsteads along the route reflect the area’s agricultural past, while the proximity to Asten connects hikers to a town with roots dating back to the Middle Ages.

Practical Tips

There are several rest areas and benches along the route, and Daatjeshoeve café at the start is an excellent spot for refreshments before or after your walk. The trail is mostly unpaved but well-maintained, suitable for sturdy walking shoes. Dogs are welcome but must be kept on a leash in certain nature reserve sections.

For a seamless hiking experience, consult HiiKER for route details, downloadable maps, and real-time updates.