4.4
(6223)
35,513
hikers
905
hikes
Hiking in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos offers a diverse landscape characterized by ancient woodlands, varied forest ecosystems, and open spaces known as "houwen." This 300-hectare forest, located southwest of Turnhout, features a rich biodiversity with over 360 plant species and a variety of fauna. The terrain includes well-maintained paths, the central Grotenhoutbos pond, and marshy open areas, providing a mosaic environment for outdoor activities.
Last updated: July 22, 2026
5.0
(4)
26
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
12
hikers
4.66km
01:10
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
4.3
(4)
12
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
2.94km
00:44
0m
0m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(18)
85
hikers
5.98km
01:30
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Rest your legs every now and then...
1
0
Narrow bridge, only for pedestrians, over the Haarlebeek
15
0
Even now there is no stork to be seen
3
0
Where there's water, there's life. Be sure to bring binoculars.
5
0
The Grotenhoutbos, also known as the Gierlese Bos, is a forest in Flanders, southwest of Turnhout, on the border of the municipalities of Vosselaar and Gierle. It covers an area of 375 hectares and is part of the Natura 2000 area "Forest and Heathland Areas East of Antwerp."
6
0
A beautiful stately avenue where it is very peaceful to walk
6
0
It is a brick chapel on a rectangular plan with a three-sided choir. The saddle roof carries a roof turret. The west facade is a pointed gable with wickerwork. A statue of Mary stands in a niche. The interior contains a baroque altar, made by Wouter Neefs (end of the 17th century) with the altarpiece Mary visits Elisabeth by Theodoor Boeyermans from 1674. Some painted wooden angels are from the end of the 17th century. The chapel is said to have been built at the end of the 16th century and was completely surrounded by a moat at that time. It may have belonged to a redoubt. In the 19th century, the chapel was enlarged to the west. The chapel was restored in 1986.
7
0
There are over 850 bus-accessible hiking trails in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos. The majority, over 500, are rated as easy, making the area very accessible for various fitness levels.
Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos offers a diverse landscape with ancient oak, beech, ash, and alder forests. You can explore areas like the Grotenhout Forest, discover unique natural monuments such as the Tinder Fungus Tree, and enjoy the serene Gierle Grotenhoutbos Pond, a habitat for various wildlife.
Yes, many trails are suitable for families. For an easy walk, consider the Rooien information board loop from Vosselaar, which is under 3 km and features minimal elevation. The paths in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos are generally well-maintained and suitable for various fitness levels, including families with strollers.
Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos is generally dog-friendly, offering plenty of space for walks. However, specific rules regarding leashes may apply in certain areas, especially near wildlife protection zones or agricultural land. Always keep your dog under control and check for local signage.
Yes, many of the bus-accessible routes are circular, allowing you to return to your starting point without retracing your steps. An example is the Grotenhoutbos Picnic Area – Giels Bos Pond loop from Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos, which offers a pleasant loop through the forest and past the pond.
Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos is beautiful year-round. Spring brings vibrant plant life like wood anemone and blue button, while autumn offers stunning foliage. The well-maintained paths make it accessible even in wetter conditions, though specific seasonal highlights like day butterflies around the pond are best observed in warmer months.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 5,400 ratings. Reviewers often praise the diverse forest ecosystems, the tranquility of the ancient woodlands, and the well-maintained, accessible paths that cater to all levels.
Beyond the general forest experience, look for the Beech Avenue for a picturesque walk. The area also features 'houwen' – open spaces like the 'Rotte Del' marshy area and the historical 'Wolvenhouw', which add to the varied landscape.
Hikes from bus stations in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos vary in length and duration. Many easy routes, such as the Lake in the Forest – View of Grotenhoutbos Pond loop from Gierle, can be completed in under 1.5 hours, while longer routes can extend to several hours, depending on your pace and chosen trail.
Yes, the Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos region is known for its water features. The Grotenhoutbos Pond is a central feature, and routes like the Open space with numerous ponds – Pond in Grotenhoutbos loop from Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos specifically highlight these serene water bodies, offering opportunities for wildlife observation.
The terrain in Grotenhoutbos - Gierlebos is generally flat with minimal elevation changes, making it suitable for most hikers. The paths are well-maintained, consisting mostly of forest trails and compacted earth, which are easy to navigate. You'll find a mix of dense forest paths and open spaces, including some heathland.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.