Overloonsche Duinen, Het Helder, Helderse Duinen and Hondsberg Loop

Starting from the edge of Overloon, a small village in North Brabant, the trailhead is conveniently located near the entrance to Overloon War Museum, a well-known local landmark. This makes it easy to access by car, with ample parking available at the museum. For those arriving by public transport, buses from Venray or Boxmeer stop in Overloon village center, just a short walk from the trailhead.

Trail Overview and Navigation

Covering approximately 35 km (about 21.7 miles) with negligible elevation gain, this loop is ideal for hikers seeking a long but gentle walk through varied landscapes. The route is well-marked, but for added confidence and real-time navigation, HiiKER is recommended as your digital companion.

Overloonsche Duinen and Het Helder

The first section leads you through the Overloonsche Duinen, a unique sand dune landscape interspersed with heathland and pine forests. The sandy soils and open heath are remnants of ancient glacial activity, and the area is managed to preserve its rare flora, including heather and juniper. Early morning hikers may spot roe deer or foxes, and birdwatchers should look for woodlarks and tree pipits.

After about 8 km (5 miles), the trail transitions into Het Helder, a tranquil nature reserve known for its clear ponds and marshy meadows. This area is a haven for amphibians and dragonflies, especially in spring and summer. The ponds here were historically used for peat extraction, a reminder of the region’s agricultural past.

Helderse Duinen and Hondsberg

Continuing west, the route enters the Helderse Duinen, where the landscape shifts to rolling dunes and scattered birch groves. The sandy paths are easy underfoot, and the open terrain offers wide views across the reserve. At roughly 20 km (12.4 miles), you’ll reach the Hondsberg, a wooded ridge that provides a gentle change in scenery. The forest here is home to tawny owls and the occasional badger sett.

Historical Significance

This region bears the scars and stories of World War II. Overloon was the site of a major tank battle in 1944, and the Overloon War Museum at the trailhead is dedicated to this history. Along the route, you may notice memorials and information boards detailing the events that unfolded in these woods and fields.

Practical Information

The entire loop is flat, with total elevation gain less than 10 metres (33 feet), making it accessible for most fitness levels. The sandy sections can be tiring in hot weather, so bring plenty of water and sun protection. There are several picnic spots along the way, particularly near Het Helder’s ponds and in the shade of Hondsberg’s woods. Facilities are limited once you leave Overloon, so plan accordingly for food and restroom breaks.

Wildlife is abundant, but ticks can be present in grassy and wooded areas, so check yourself after hiking. Dogs are allowed on most sections but must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife.

For navigation, download the route on HiiKER before setting out, as mobile signal can be patchy in the more remote sections. The loop brings you back to Overloon, where you can relax at a local café or visit the museum to round off your day.