DISCOVER THE UNPARALLELED BEAUTY
IN THE MIDDLE OF THE NETHERLANDS

The Horsterwold is the largest contiguous deciduous forest in the Netherlands. What makes this forest so special is the combination of nature and silence, as well as its rich biodiversity. The area was created by ancient soil formation and is now an important nature reserve. Here you can hike, bike and enjoy the tranquility while spotting wildlife such as deer and birds. The Horsterwold offers a wonderful example of how nature can flourish in a land largely created by human hands.

FLORA AND FAUNA

The largest deciduous forest in the Netherlands literally begins at your front door. On your bike, you swing right along the paths that run through the forest. Between the trees, you'll sometimes see a deer leaping away or wild horses grazing in a clearing.

In the middle of the forest is the Silent Core - 900 acres where there is almost no sound. Only the crackle of twigs under your feet and sometimes the snort of Konik horses grazing nearby. In the tall grass you can hear fallow deer rustling before you see them. You walk from forest to meadow to water, each stretch different from the last.

Discover unique animal species

Many animals can be spotted in Horsterwold, both on land and in the air. If you walk silently through the forest, you will suddenly see a roe deer standing among the trees. Wild konik horses graze quietly in the clearings - they are used to people and often just keep on eating as you pass. Near the water you sometimes hear a splash - a beaver diving away. Above your head a buzzard circles, and if you're lucky you'll see a bald eagle fly by. In spring, the forest is full of songbirds singing. Along the waterfront, sometimes a blue streak flashes by - a kingfisher diving for fish. And if you stand very still by the water, you might see a spoonbill with its strange spoon-shaped bill wading through the shallows.