The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos
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Family friendly hiking trails in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos are located southwest of Turnhout in the Kempen region of Belgium. This area features diverse landscapes, including over 100 hectares of century-old oak forest, alongside beech, ash, and alder stands. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for various activity levels. A prominent pond, originating from a sand extraction pit, adds a natural feature to the forest environment.
Best family friendly hiking trails in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos
…Last updated: August 5, 2026
4.6
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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(4)
79
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
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56
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(11)
52
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Rest your legs every now and then...
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Even now there is no stork to be seen
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Where there's water, there's life. Be sure to bring binoculars.
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It is beautiful and very peaceful to walk here in any season.
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A beautiful stately avenue where it is very peaceful to walk
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It is one of the oldest forests in the Kempen with very diverse biotopes. So give your eyes and ears a good treat during your walk or bike ride through this wonderful habitat. There are many mammals in Grotenhout (300 hectares): eight different bat species, roe deer, hare, fox and stoat. The pond is a popular spot for butterflies, dragonflies, frogs and toads. Breeding birds include the honey buzzard, the wood warbler, the middle spotted woodpecker and the black woodpecker. The plant list is also impressive with more than 360 discovered species. One of the oldest forests in the Kempen Grotenhout, also called the Gierlese forest, is located southwest of Turnhout on the border of the municipalities of Lille and Vosselaar. With its 300 hectares, it is one of the largest and oldest forests in the Kempen. The area contains approximately 100 hectares of oak forest that is more than a hundred years old, as well as beech, ash and alder forests. The alternation of a rich subsoil with poor grasslands ensures a great wealth of plants. Muskwort, wood anemone, scattered-leaved goldfinch, slender primrose, blue button and ground star are just a few examples of the more than 360 species that occur. Back in time The Grotenhout forest has a rich past that (on paper) dates back to 1320. For centuries, noble families used the forest as a hunting domain. For example, the Dukes of Brabant, Burgundy, Habsburg, Nassau and Prussia held sway in the Grotenhout. The importance of the Grotenhout is also evident from the addition of the area to the list of free forests, the most important hunting domains for the lord of the manor Philip the Good (1430). From the 18th century onwards, the managers focused on timber production, although the nobility hunted small and large game there for a long time. Natuur en Bos took over the management of the Grotenhout in 2000. We want to safeguard the landscape and the natural values through smart management. Old forest plants are given every chance again and rare animals come home. Parts of the Grotenhout are protected as a forest reserve and are not accessible to visitors.
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The former Grotenhoutbos is a relic of the estate forest with an impressive avenue complex that served as a hunting ground for the Dukes of Brabant, later Lords of Turnhout. This forest domain - a large, contiguous, wooded area in a intact, open agricultural area - is the only old forest complex of that size in the Kempen that has remained present since at least the Middle Ages. Vulnerable old vegetation with rare plants associated with a forest environment can be found in the forest.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos?
Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos offers a good selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with 15 easy and 3 moderate routes. In total, there are 18 routes suitable for various family outings, ensuring there's something for everyone.
What kind of natural features can we expect to see on a family hike?
The area is rich in diverse natural features. You'll encounter century-old oak and beech forests, and can explore unique open areas known as 'houwen.' The central Gierle Grotenhoutbos Pond is a prominent feature, offering serene views and a chance to spot butterflies, dragonflies, frogs, and toads. Keep an eye out for interesting natural monuments like the Tinder Fungus Tree.
Are there any easy, shorter routes suitable for families with young children?
Yes, there are several easy and shorter routes perfect for families with young children. For example, the Beech Avenue – View of Grotenhoutbos Pond loop is an easy 3.8 km walk, and the View of the Pond near E34 – Lake in the Forest loop is an even shorter 3.3 km, both offering beautiful scenery without being too strenuous.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos?
The komoot community highly rates Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos, with an average score of 4.38 out of 5 stars from over 5,400 ratings. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere, the diverse forest types, and the well-marked trails. The beautiful Beech Avenue and the tranquil pond are frequently mentioned highlights.
Are dogs allowed on the trails in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos?
Yes, dogs are generally welcome in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos. However, it's always best to keep them on a leash, especially given the abundant wildlife, including roe deer, foxes, and various bird species. Please remember to clean up after your pet to help keep the forest beautiful for everyone.
What is the best time of year to visit Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos with family?
Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos is beautiful year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly enchanting. In spring, you can witness the vibrant bloom of rare forest plants like wood anemone and slender primrose. Autumn offers a spectacular display of colors from the diverse tree species. The paths are generally accessible, but appropriate footwear is recommended, especially in wet conditions.
Are there any circular routes that are good for families?
Many of the family-friendly routes in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos are circular, making them convenient for families. For instance, the Grotenhout Forest – View of Grotenhoutbos Pond loop is an easy 4.4 km circular trail, perfect for a relaxed family outing. The Lake in the Forest – Beech Avenue loop is a longer easy option at 7.3 km.
Where can we park when visiting Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos?
There are designated parking areas available for visitors. One convenient spot is near the Bench at Grotenhoutbos Parking, which provides easy access to the trail network. Parking information is often available at the entrances to the forest.
What kind of wildlife might we see during our hike?
The diverse habitats of Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos support a wide array of wildlife. You might spot roe deer, hares, and foxes. The central pond is a great place to observe butterflies, dragonflies, frogs, and toads. Birdwatchers can look for breeding birds like the honey buzzard, wood warbler, and black woodpecker, especially in the older trees with cavities.
Are the trails suitable for strollers or wheelchairs?
While many paths are generally accessible, some longer trails may be unpaved and can become muddy, especially after rain. For families with strollers or wheelchairs, it's advisable to stick to the wider, more established paths and check recent trail conditions if possible. The main avenues, like the Beech Avenue, are often more suitable.
Are there any historical points of interest in the forest?
Yes, Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos has a rich history dating back to 1320, having been a former hunting domain for noble families. Informative signs along the trails provide insights into this past. You can also find unique open areas like the historically significant 'Wolvenhouw,' where wolves were once driven, adding a cultural layer to your natural experience.
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