Kinderbos Route and Heerenbeek Route

Nestled in the tranquil green belt near Best, North Brabant, the Kinderbos Route and Heerenbeek Route combine to offer a gentle 11 km (about 6.8 miles) loop with virtually no elevation gain, making it an ideal outing for families, beginners, and anyone seeking a leisurely walk through Dutch woodland and countryside. The trailhead is conveniently located near the entrance to Kinderbos, close to the well-known address of Oirschotseweg 117, 5684 NE Best, which is easily accessible by both car and public transport.

Getting There

For those arriving by car, parking is available at the Kinderbos car park on Oirschotseweg, just outside the village of Best. If you’re using public transport, take the train to Best Station, then transfer to a local bus (such as line 141 or 142) heading towards Oirschot, alighting at the ‘Best, Heerenbeek’ stop. From there, it’s a short walk to the trailhead.

Trail Experience and Navigation

The route meanders through the lush Kinderbos (Children’s Forest), a patchwork of mixed woodland, open meadows, and tranquil ponds. The paths are well-maintained, mostly flat, and suitable for all ages. For navigation, HiiKER provides an accurate and up-to-date map of the route, ensuring you stay on track and don’t miss any highlights.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

• Kinderbos: Early in the walk, you’ll pass through the heart of Kinderbos, a forest planted with the help of local schoolchildren. Look for educational signs about native trees and wildlife, and keep an eye out for playful wooden sculptures and natural play areas designed for kids.
• Heerenbeek Estate: Around the halfway mark, the trail skirts the historic Heerenbeek Estate, a former noble estate dating back to the 17th century. The estate’s stately avenues, old farm buildings, and ornamental ponds offer a glimpse into the region’s aristocratic past. While the main house is private, the surrounding parkland is open to walkers.
• Wildlife and Nature: The area is rich in birdlife, especially in spring and early summer. Expect to see woodpeckers, nuthatches, and the occasional buzzard circling overhead. The ponds and wetlands attract frogs, dragonflies, and, if you’re lucky, a shy roe deer at dawn or dusk.
• Heerenbeekse Loop: The route follows the gentle course of the Heerenbeekse Loop, a small stream that winds through the landscape, supporting a variety of wetland plants and providing a peaceful soundtrack to your walk.

Practical Tips

The entire loop is about 11 km (6.8 miles) with negligible elevation change, making it accessible for strollers and wheelchairs in dry conditions. There are several benches and picnic spots along the way, particularly near the ponds and open meadows. Public toilets are available at the Kinderbos entrance. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a leash, especially near grazing livestock and in the more sensitive wildlife areas.

The Kinderbos Route and Heerenbeek Route offer a gentle immersion into the natural and historical tapestry of North Brabant, perfect for a relaxed day outdoors.