Top 20 Lakes around Valkenswaard
Best lakes around Valkenswaard are found within the municipality's natural landscapes in Noord-Brabant, Netherlands. The area features fens and smaller lakes within its nature parks. These natural features offer opportunities for recreation and exploration. The region is characterized by an interplay of water, heathlands, and forests.
Best lakes around Valkenswaard
- The most popular lakes is Lommel Sahara, a natural monument with sand dunes and lakes. This area features clear blue lakes, heather strips, and forests.
- Another must-see spot is Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, an other natural area known for its vast heathland and the bog Beuven. Visitors can expect natural paths and grazing sheep.
- Visitors also love Heather Landscape in De Malpie, an other natural area with heathland and fens. This area offers views of the lake and is suitable for cycling.
- Valkenswaard is known for its fens, smaller lakes, and bogs. These water bodies are often found within extensive nature parks, offering diverse landscapes to explore.
- The lakes around Valkenswaard are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1000 upvotes and over 700 photos shared across 18 highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower
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Lommel Sahara
Highlight • Natural Monument
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Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven
Highlight • Natural
There are sheep grazing that keep the heath free of new trees. Sometimes you also encounter them on the bike path!
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Strabrechtse Heide
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Birdwatching wall Lommelse Sahara
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Tips from the Community
The small body of water is called Beuven. The paths here are great for cycling.
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This 30-meter-high observation tower has three platforms that offer you a wide view of the surroundings.
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Beautiful tower with accompanying views that are equally spectacular...
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Beautiful nature reserve highly recommended
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Beautiful nature reserve and very special walking area! Well worth a visit
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Beautiful vast heathland with natural paths. Good for cycling with normal or gravel bike tires. With a racing bike it is possible, provided you like gravel. There are sheep grazing that keep the heath free of new trees. Sometimes you also encounter them on the bike path!
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Around the end of August/September this is a beautiful tour over the Strabrechtse heath
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A clear blue lake, surrounded by a mini-desert and coniferous and deciduous forest in the Bosland region. The lake was created by sand extraction in the 1920s.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of lakes and water bodies can I find around Valkenswaard?
Valkenswaard is known for its picturesque natural landscapes, featuring fens (small, shallow lakes) and smaller lakes primarily located within extensive nature parks. These areas are characterized by an interplay of water, heathlands, and forests, offering diverse landscapes to explore.
Are there good places for hiking and cycling near the lakes?
Yes, the region offers excellent opportunities for hiking and cycling. Heather Landscape in De Malpie is a popular spot with well-paved cycle paths and beautiful views of the fens. The Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven also feature vast heathlands with natural paths suitable for cycling and hiking. For more specific routes, you can explore the Cycling around Valkenswaard guide or the MTB Trails around Valkenswaard guide.
Which lakes are suitable for families with children?
Several areas are family-friendly. The Lommel Sahara, with its sand dunes and lakes, offers a unique landscape for exploration. The Heather Landscape in De Malpie is also suitable for families, offering easy cycling paths. For active water sports in a resort setting, Center Parcs De Kempervennen in nearby Hapert provides various activities.
Can I swim in the lakes around Valkenswaard?
While many lakes are beautiful for viewing and recreation, swimming is generally not permitted in all natural fens. For example, swimming is prohibited in the Lommel Sahara due to potential cold spots. For organized water sports and swimming, Center Parcs De Kempervennen offers facilities for activities like waterskiing and wakeboarding.
What natural features can I expect to see at these lakes?
You can expect diverse natural features. The fens in De Malpie are characterized by heathlands, forests, and the meandering Dommel River. The Lommel Sahara features unique sand dunes, clear blue lakes, and heather strips. The Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven offer vast heathlands and bogs known for special plants and grazing sheep.
Are there any viewpoints to get a good overview of the lake areas?
Yes, the Lommelse Sahara Observation Tower provides an excellent panoramic view over the Lommel Sahara, its ponds, and surrounding forests. From the top, you can see up to 25 km on a clear day.
What is the best time of year to visit the lakes around Valkenswaard?
The fens and heathlands around Valkenswaard offer beauty throughout the seasons. Summer brings blooming purple heather, especially in areas like De Malpie and Strabrechtse Heide. Autumn offers a fairytale-like atmosphere with mist and changing leaves. The natural paths are generally suitable for all seasons, making it a year-round destination for nature lovers.
Are there any historical or cultural sites near the lakes?
On the edge of De Malpie, you can find the Venbergse Water Mill, which adds historical charm to the natural landscape and features a café-restaurant. This offers a glimpse into the region's past alongside its natural beauty.
Can I bring my dog to the lake areas?
Many natural areas around Valkenswaard are dog-friendly, especially for walks on designated trails. For instance, the Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven is popular for walks, and you might even encounter grazing sheep. Always ensure dogs are kept on a leash where required to protect wildlife and livestock.
Where can I find information about local tourist attractions and activities in Valkenswaard?
For more information on local attractions and activities in Valkenswaard, you can visit the official tourism website. Check visitvalkenswaard.nl for highlights and visitvalkenswaard.nl for active pursuits.
What kind of wildlife can I spot around the fens and lakes?
The diverse ecosystems support various wildlife. In areas like De Malpie, you might spot dragonflies, frogs, and various waterfowl. The Lommel Sahara is home to many birds, including grebes, ducks, and swans in winter. The heathlands, such as Strabrechtse Heide, are known for special plants and grazing sheep.
Are there cafes or restaurants near the lake areas?
Yes, for example, the Venbergse Water Mill, located on the edge of De Malpie, features a café-restaurant where visitors can relax and enjoy refreshments after exploring the area.
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