The best walks and hikes in Malpie
4.4
(8684)
44,121
hikers
39
hikes
Hiking in Malpie offers routes through a diverse nature reserve characterized by extensive heathland and numerous fens. The terrain is generally flat, with minimal elevation gain, making it accessible for various activity levels. Features include wet heathlands, sandy paths, and boardwalks winding along fens like the Groot Malpieven. The area also encompasses hay meadows, marshes, and swamp woods, contributing to its varied landscape.
Best hiking trails in Malpie
- The most popular hiking route is Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven –…
Last updated: August 27, 2026
4.6
(269)
1,066
hikers
10.1km
02:33
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.3
(20)
79
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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4.5
(2)
64
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3.8
(5)
62
hikers
3.00km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.1
(11)
45
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
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!
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Relaxing space, even in autumn when the weather is drizzly.
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beautiful views over the fens with a bench and table and not to forget the bird with a book.
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Beautiful surroundings and I have been there twice now and the heath and fen landscapes with all its animals are a pleasure to enjoy.
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beautiful spot along the Dommel where you can enjoy the surroundings and if you are lucky canoeists will pass by
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Here you can walk along a beautifully situated boardwalk path in the middle of the Malpie nature reserve.
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small car park where you can start walks to the Malpie area with all its fens.
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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.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of terrain can I expect when hiking in Malpie?
Malpie is known for its diverse landscape, featuring extensive heathland, numerous fens, and areas of hay meadows, marshes, and swamp woods. You'll encounter sandy paths, and many routes include scenic boardwalks, especially around the fens like the Groot Malpieven. The terrain is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it accessible for various fitness levels.
Are there many hiking trails available in Malpie?
Yes, Malpie offers a wide selection of routes. There are over 35 hiking trails available, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate excursions, ensuring options for different preferences and abilities.
What are the main natural features or landmarks to see in Malpie?
Malpie's landscape is defined by its beautiful fens and heathland. Key natural features include the expansive Groot Malpieven, with its iconic boardwalk, and other fens like Molenven, Wasven, Pastoorsven, and Vaarvennen. The Heather Landscape in De Malpie and the Malpievennen Trail are particularly popular for their scenic beauty.
Are there any circular hiking routes in Malpie?
Yes, many of the trails in Malpie are circular, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the View of the Heidesee Fen – Venbergse Mill loop from Schaft is an easy 6.1 km circular route that showcases the fens and surrounding nature.
Is Malpie suitable for family-friendly hikes?
Absolutely. With its generally flat terrain and numerous easy routes, Malpie is an excellent choice for families. The boardwalks and varied scenery keep children engaged. A shorter, easy option is the Boardwalk at the Groot Malpieven – Great Malpie Fen loop from Valkenswaard, which is 3.9 km long and offers beautiful views of the fens.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails in Malpie?
Malpie is generally dog-friendly, allowing you to enjoy the trails with your canine companion. However, it's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash, especially in areas with livestock or sensitive wildlife, and to check local signage for any specific restrictions.
What is the best time of year to hike in Malpie?
Malpie offers beauty throughout the year, but each season has its charm. Late summer (August/September) is particularly stunning when the heathland blooms with vibrant purple. Spring brings fresh greenery and birdlife, while autumn offers beautiful foliage. Even in winter, the fens can be picturesque, though paths might be wetter.
Where can I park when visiting Malpie for a hike?
There are several parking options available around the Malpie nature reserve, often located near popular trailheads or access points. Many visitors park near Valkenswaard or the Malpie area itself, with designated parking lots provided for hikers.
Is Malpie accessible by public transport?
While Malpie is primarily accessed by car, some entry points may be reachable via public transport, particularly from nearby towns like Valkenswaard. It's recommended to check local bus schedules and routes to plan your journey if you intend to use public transport.
What do other hikers enjoy most about Malpie?
The komoot community highly rates Malpie, with an average score of 4.38 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the area's tranquil fens, the unique experience of walking on the boardwalks, and the expansive, picturesque heathland, especially during the blooming season. The varied landscape and well-maintained paths are also often highlighted.
Are there any longer, more challenging routes in Malpie?
While Malpie is known for its generally easy terrain, there are longer routes for those seeking a more extended hike. The Small pond – View of the Malpie Fens loop from Valkenswaard is a moderate 11.2 km trail that takes you through varied fens and heathland, offering a longer exploration of the area.
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