Top 20 Lakes around Eindhoven
Best lakes around Eindhoven include several recreational water bodies within the city and its immediate surroundings. This region offers diverse options for outdoor activities, from swimming to walking and cycling. While large natural lakes are not directly within the city, man-made lakes and heathland fens provide accessible natural escapes. The area is characterized by a mix of urban green spaces and expansive nature reserves.
Best lakes around Eindhoven
- The most popular lakes is Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, an other natural area that features a vast heathland with natural paths. This area is known for its special plants and is suitable for hiking and cycling.
- Another must-see spot is Strabrechtse Heath and Beuven, an other natural area with a small body of water called Beuven. Visitors can expect beautiful open areas with gravel paths, ideal for cycling.
- Visitors also love Malpievennen Trail, a trail through an open landscape with water and winding paths. This route offers views along the Malpie ven and is appreciated for its natural beauty.
- Eindhoven is known for recreational lakes, heathland fens, and swimming lakes. The variety of lakes provides opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, cycling, and exploring diverse natural landscapes.
- The lakes around Eindhoven are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 550 upvotes and 50 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 1, 2026
Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven
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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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Malpievennen Trail
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Wit Hollandven Viewing Platform
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In 2019 the ponds are not filled with water due to the drought.
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Landschotse Heide Nature Reserve
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The Malpievennen route takes you through one of North Brabant's most beautiful nature reserves: the Malpie, located south of Valkenswaard along the Dommel River. This landscape is known for its interplay of fens, heathlands, and forests. It is a dynamic area where water, sand, and heathland meet and are constantly changing. The walk often begins at the Dommel River, which here still meanders through the landscape. From the banks, you have beautiful views of the river and the surrounding wet grasslands. The path then leads you past the Malpievennen, a series of picturesque fens that have a different character in every season. In summer, the heather blooms purple and reflects in the water, while in autumn, mist and changing leaves create an almost fairytale-like atmosphere. The Malpie is also rich in flora and fauna. The fens are home to dragonflies, frogs, and sometimes even waterfowl such as grebes and grebes. On the heathland, you'll encounter grazing animals, which are employed to keep the landscape open. Birdwatchers can spot woodpeckers, stonechats, and sometimes even the rare nightjar. What makes this route particularly special is the transition between heathland and river landscape. The contrast between the wet fens, dry sandy soil, and the flowing water of the Dommel River makes the walk very varied.
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Landschotse Heide nature reserve a dream for many hikers
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Nice sandy road with a bit of boardwalk, no problem to walk, huge challenge to limit the number of photos you want to take of the beautiful landscape. No bikes here!
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Fantastic heathland for nice walks. Not too big but very varied
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Very beautiful surroundings, but wear boots, otherwise it is impossible. Definitely go back here in the spring!
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The Landschotse Heide is accessible between sunrise and half an hour before sunset. Currently (Feb.2025) very wet but with good footwear you stay dry.
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It's so wet here that the water was running down my pants into my shoes.
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Enjoy Erica along winding hiking trails
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around the lakes near Eindhoven?
The area around Eindhoven's lakes offers a diverse mix of landscapes, from expansive heathlands and forests to recreational water bodies. You'll find picturesque fens, such as Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, known for their unique plant species and birdlife, as well as lush green surroundings with various trees like conifers, oaks, and birches around lakes like Karpendonkse Plas.
Which lakes near Eindhoven are suitable for swimming?
Several lakes near Eindhoven offer excellent swimming opportunities. Popular choices include IJzeren Man, which has beaches within the city, Aquabest in Best, Landgoed Duynenwater, Witven in Veldhoven, and E3-strand in Eersel. Berkendonk also allows swimming and other aquatic activities.
Are there good walking or cycling paths around the lakes near Eindhoven?
Yes, many lakes and natural areas offer great paths for walking and cycling. The Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven area features beautiful vast heathland with natural and gravel paths, ideal for both activities. The Malpievennen Trail also provides winding paths through an open landscape with water views. You can also enjoy walks or bike rides around Landgoed Duynenwater and Karpendonkse Plas.
What outdoor activities, besides visiting lakes, can I do in the Eindhoven area?
Beyond the lakes, the Eindhoven area is excellent for various outdoor sports. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including road cycling and mountain biking trails. For instance, there are several road cycling routes and MTB trails that wind through forests and natural areas. Additionally, there are many running trails available for joggers.
Are there family-friendly lakes with amenities near Eindhoven?
Absolutely. Lakes like Aquabest and E3-strand are known for being family-friendly, offering swimming opportunities and green surroundings. Landgoed Duynenwater is a lake park specifically designated for swimming and even offers mobile home stays. Witven also provides beaches and shaded grassy areas for relaxation, though some of these may have an entry fee.
Do any of the recreational lakes near Eindhoven have an entry fee?
Yes, some of the recreational lakes near Eindhoven do have an entry fee. This typically applies to facilities like Aquabest, Witven, and E3-strand, which offer developed beaches and amenities.
Which lakes are best for nature observation and birdwatching?
For nature observation and birdwatching, Beuven Lake within the Strabrechtse Heide is highly recommended. This area is renowned for its exceptional birdlife, including wild ducks, tar birds, egrets, and various migratory species, as well as diverse plant species like water spoons and carnivorous sundew.
Can I go windsurfing or paddleboarding at any of the lakes?
Yes, Berkendonk is a popular spot for a wide range of aquatic recreational activities, including windsurfing and paddleboarding. It even features a windsurfing school and rental shop right by the water.
Are there less crowded lakes or tranquil spots for relaxation near Eindhoven?
For a tranquil green space with water features rather than a busy swimming lake, Gender Park in Eindhoven offers serene walking paths and views of the Dommel river. While swimming is not permitted, Karpendonkse Plas also provides a picturesque and relaxing environment for sailing or enjoying the views from its banks.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural areas around Eindhoven's lakes?
Visitors particularly appreciate the vast, open landscapes and the natural beauty. Many enjoy the beautiful gravel paths for cycling, especially in areas like Strabrechtse Heide. The adventurous, winding paths and the ever-changing nature, along with the diverse flora and fauna, are frequently highlighted as major draws.
Is it possible to visit the lakes near Eindhoven during winter?
Yes, the natural areas around Eindhoven's lakes are enjoyable year-round. While swimming might not be an option, places like Strabrechtse Heide offer beautiful gravel paths that are great for cycling in all seasons, including winter. Some recreational lakes like Aquabest even offer ice skating in the winter, weather permitting.
Are there any lakes near Eindhoven that are formed from sand extraction?
Yes, Karpendonkse Plas in the Tongelre district of Eindhoven was formed from sand extraction for a railway line. Today, it's a beautiful recreational area with a picturesque island and lush surroundings.
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