Discover the wild heathland landscape of the beautiful Cartierheide in the middle of hiking paradise De Kempen. For a long time, shepherds and small farmers set the tone here. And peddlers walked along the sandy paths with their baskets of merchandise on their backs. It is an area full of history, where Napoleon left his mark. Did you know that the forests were the territory of smugglers?

The Cartierheide is part of the Kempen nature reserve and is located southwest of Eersel. It is a quiet walking route through forest, along heathland and large bodies of water. The area is flowed through by the idyllic Dalems Stroompje. Here you will find moist heathlands, birch marshes and gale thickets. The Round Sundew and Bell Gentian, among others, also grow here.

'If you are very quiet, the roe deer will show itself'

During this walk you can spot all kinds of animal species. A walk at dusk is recommended, when you have the greatest chance of encountering deer. The smooth snake, the viviparous lizard and the hazel worm, among others, scurry around on the heath. Do you come across them? Don't worry, they are absolutely non-toxic. The moor frog also lives in this area.

Tip: are you a horse lover? With this beautiful equestrian route, you will discover the Cartierheide from a different point of view!

Recommended by the forester
This walking route was created in collaboration with the Dutch Forestry Commission. Erik Schram, forester in the Kempen, recommends the walking route:

"A beautiful heath walk over the Cartierheide along fens and on a boardwalk."

About this route
This route has been set out via the Brabant walking junction system. Easily walk from one numbered junction to another. Arrows show you the way between the nodes. Is there something wrong with the signposting of the route? Please let us know via visitbrabant.com/meldpunt. You can also call 0800-4050050 (free of charge).

Discover the nature of Brabant
In Brabant you can completely relax. Here you can enjoy a wonderful selection of carefully marked nature routes. These nature routes take you past the most beautiful places in the Brabant landscape. Be amazed by Brabant forests and fens or walk over beautiful boardwalk bridges. Discover all nature routes here.