Hiking in the Mortelen

The Mortelen nature reserve lies north of Oirschot. A characteristic of this area is the large number of deciduous and coniferous forests alternating with vast green meadows, dry fields and a hundred pools! This is a genuine piece of Brabant countryside. ‘Mortelen’ refers to the soft ground. The wet areas in combination with the higher soils, or ‘donking’, provide a particularly varied landscape, providing wonderful cycling and walking experiences, especially in the spring when the flowers, trees and bushes are in full bloom. From the slender primrose, dotter flower and celandine, to the Pentecostal flower. For lovers of plants, flowers and nature in general, the Mortelen provides a wonderfully enriching experience

If your interest is in the natural fauna, the Mortelen – tucked away between the Brabant towns of Oirschot, Best and Boxtel – is well worth a visit. Especially in the transitional areas between forest and agricultural land you will find many animals, both large and small living their natural life. From amphibians such as the tree frog, that recently made its comeback, beautiful butterflies like the orange tip that lays its eggs exclusively on the Pinkster Flower, to all kinds of small suckers and rodents, even foxes and roe deer! This makes the Mortelen an absolute must for anyone who loves a beautiful walk through the ‘farm nature’!

After a long walk, or bike ride through the Mortelen nature reserve, you will be ready to satisfy the ‘inner man’. Fortunately, De Mortelen nature reserve lies close to several typical Brabant church villages, which appear to have been picked straight out of an old postcard. What about the beautiful center of Oirschot, where time has apparently stood still? There you can enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch, dinner, or tasty snacks, all of course accompanied by the hospitality and conviviality that is so characteristic of this part of Brabant and the Brabant Kempen. There is certainly no shortage of catering establishments, so there is always a café, bar, restaurant, or snack bar that is ready to provide just what you need. When it comes to enjoyment, the Brabanders know about providing just what you want, when you want it! Ready to come and experience the Mortelen and its immediate surroundings yourself? Then book your stay at Camping De Bocht at Oude Grintweg 69 in Oirschot; within easy cycling and walking distance of the Mortelen. From there you can select from a range of beautiful cycling and walking routes.

Hiking trails Natuurmonumenten Kampina