The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Malpie

Planning to cycle or hike in Valkanswaard, Pelt, Achel etc.? Then this is a nice base from which you can go swimming, eating or do other activities afterwards... Either bring your own bike, so you can safely store it in your cottage, prepare it etc... or rent one there!

Relaxing space, even in autumn when the weather is drizzly.

beautiful views over the fens with a bench and table and not to forget the bird with a book.

Beautiful surroundings and I have been there twice now and the heath and fen landscapes with all its animals are a pleasure to enjoy.

beautiful spot along the Dommel where you can enjoy the surroundings and if you are lucky canoeists will pass by

Here you can walk along a beautifully situated boardwalk path in the middle of the Malpie nature reserve.

This walk takes you along the beautiful boardwalk at Groot Malpieven, in the heart of the De Malpie nature reserve near Valkenswaard. The boardwalk winds through the wet heathland and along the fen, offering unique views of the water and the surrounding fields. In clear weather, the clouds and heather reflect in the fen, creating a picturesque backdrop that changes with each season. Groot Malpieven is one of the largest and most beautiful fens in the region. It was formed during the last ice age, when meltwater and wind formed the subsoil into these wet depressions. Today, the fen is an important habitat for dragonflies, frogs, salamanders, and countless waterfowl. In summer, the flowering heathlands create a sea of purple hues, while autumn lends the area a tranquil, mysterious atmosphere. The boardwalks make this natural area easily accessible, even where the ground is marshy and boggy. The feeling of "walking on water" gives this walk a special touch, allowing you to experience the fragility and beauty of the fen up close. Looking closely, you'll also see the influence of traditional landscape management practices: grazing with sheep and cattle ensures that the heathland remains open and the area doesn't become overgrown with forest. This is how this valuable heathland landscape is preserved.

The Malpievennen route takes you through one of North Brabant's most beautiful nature reserves: the Malpie, located south of Valkenswaard along the Dommel River. This landscape is known for its interplay of fens, heathlands, and forests. It is a dynamic area where water, sand, and heathland meet and are constantly changing. The walk often begins at the Dommel River, which here still meanders through the landscape. From the banks, you have beautiful views of the river and the surrounding wet grasslands. The path then leads you past the Malpievennen, a series of picturesque fens that have a different character in every season. In summer, the heather blooms purple and reflects in the water, while in autumn, mist and changing leaves create an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The Malpie is also rich in flora and fauna. The fens are home to dragonflies, frogs, and sometimes even waterfowl such as grebes and grebes. On the heathland, you'll encounter grazing animals, which are employed to keep the landscape open. Birdwatchers can spot woodpeckers, stonechats, and sometimes even the rare nightjar. What makes this route particularly special is the transition between heathland and river landscape. The contrast between the wet fens, dry sandy soil, and the flowing water of the Dommel River makes the walk very varied.