The best family-friendly hikes and walks in De Scheeken

De Scheeken offers a wonderful selection of family-friendly hiking trails. You'll find over 15 routes specifically curated for families, with the majority being easy to moderate in difficulty.

Yes, De Scheeken has several easy circular routes perfect for families. A great option is the Scheeken-Mortelen entrance – De Scheeken loop from Speeleiland Gemeente Best, which is just under 6.6 km and features minimal elevation gain, making it ideal for a relaxed family outing.

The terrain in De Scheeken is generally flat and varied, characterized by its unique wet landscape. You'll encounter paths through moist heathland, marshy forests, and the distinctive poplar groves. The loam-rich soil means some paths can be damp, especially after rain, but they are generally well-maintained for hiking.

De Scheeken is rich in natural beauty and interesting features. You can explore the extensive poplar landscape, which is a defining characteristic of the area. Keep an eye out for the unique 'chamber landscape' formed by traditional land patterns. For specific points of interest, consider visiting De Scheeken itself, or the historical Paal De Drie-Steenen (Three Stones Boundary Marker).

Absolutely! De Scheeken is a biodiversity hotspot. You might spot red deer in their enclosed area, especially if you follow the dedicated blue walking route. Badgers have re-established themselves, and the area is home to various bird species, butterflies, and even special snail species due to the lime in the soil. It's a fantastic place for children to observe nature.

Yes, De Scheeken is generally dog-friendly. However, it's always best to keep your dog on a leash, especially in areas with wildlife or near grazing animals, to protect both the animals and your pet. Please remember to clean up after your dog.

Access to De Scheeken is facilitated by a Green Nature Gate in Best, which includes parking facilities. This is a convenient starting point for many of the trails, including those suitable for families.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 3700 reviews. Reviewers often praise the peaceful, varied landscape, the well-maintained paths, and the opportunity to experience unique nature, making it a beloved destination for family outings.

For families with older children looking for a bit more of a challenge, the Scheeken-Mortelen entrance – Groote Waterloop loop from De Scheeken is a moderate 11.0 km route. It offers a longer exploration of the diverse landscape while still being manageable for active families.

De Scheeken is beautiful year-round, but spring and early autumn are particularly pleasant for family hikes. In spring, you can enjoy ancient forest herbs like wood anemone and slender primrose, while autumn offers stunning foliage. The wet landscape means paths can be damp, so consider waterproof footwear, especially after rain.

While the immediate trails are focused on nature, the Green Nature Gate in Best, which serves as an access point, often has facilities. For cafes or picnic spots, you'll find options in the nearby towns of Liempde, Sint-Oedenrode, or Best, which are easily accessible from the reserve.