Top 20 Lakes around Best
Lakes around Best, a municipality in the Netherlands, offer diverse natural landscapes characterized by fens, heathlands, and forests. This region is part of the larger Campina area, known for its unique ecosystems and tranquil water bodies. Visitors can explore a variety of lakes, often surrounded by walking trails and opportunities for observing local flora and fauna. The area provides a blend of natural beauty and accessible outdoor experiences, making it a destination for those seeking quiet recreation.
Best lakes around Best
- The most popular lakes is Kampina Nature Reserve, a forest that features wet heathland with fens, scented gale thickets, and deciduous forests. Horses run free in this natural setting, offering a unique sight.
- Another must-see spot is Huisvennen, a lake surrounded by a beautiful nature reserve. This area is ideal for walking, with several marked trails available for exploration.
- Visitors also love Palingven, a lake surrounded by trees and featuring a small sandy beach. This pond is known for its beautiful water lilies in summer and offers a quiet place for relaxation.
- Best is known for its fens, natural lakes, and forest-fringed water bodies. The region offers a variety of lakes to see and explore, from those with sandy beaches to those nestled within extensive nature reserves.
- The lakes around Best are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 700 upvotes and 30 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
Kampina Nature Reserve
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Palingven
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Kogelvangersven
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Natuurmonumenten wants to give drifting sand and heather a chance again in this area that is densely growing by conifers. That is why you see that they have cut a number of trees on the other side of the Kogelvangersven. The wind gets free reign here, you can experience this yourself. As a result, the area no longer grows dense and nature here becomes more attractive for the heath and, for example, the nightjar.
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Huisvennen
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Brandven
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Tips from the Community
The Brandven is one of the most famous fens in the Kampina region, situated in the heart of this unique nature reserve. The name likely refers to the heathland fires that frequently occurred here. Heathlands and fens were once fragile landscapes: a single spark could be enough to set large areas ablaze. Such fires kept the heathland open and prevented young trees from overgrowing the area. The fen itself is an old raised bog, formed during the last Ice Age, when meltwater and rain accumulated in shallow hollows in the landscape. For centuries, the surrounding area was used by local farmers, who grazed their sheep and cut sods for their straw barns. Today, the Brandven is a protected natural area. The fen attracts many birds, such as ducks, geese, and sometimes even cranes during migration. Together with the surrounding heathland and forests, it forms a typical Brabant cultural landscape where nature and history intersect.
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Beautiful path through a forest area with fens.
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NOTE: Brandven is currently only accessible from the south. The other paths have been under water for months.
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Did you know that the heathland used to be white in August and not purple? It started on the Maashorst, but it didn't take long for other heathland areas to be affected. Do you want to know how this happened? Then listen to the digital story 'Marieke, or: the girl and the purple heathland' on Spotify: .https://open.spotify.com/episode/6c9Lu6HL4AamFmci03ZZ4Q?si=444ee92a56984f98&nd=1&dlsi=5baac732a1674da1 If you want to know more about this project, visit www.theaterspoor.nl/marieke
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In this area you can find a number of beautiful fens.
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In this area you can find a number of beautiful fens.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect around the lakes in Best?
The lakes around Best are set within diverse natural landscapes, including fens, wet heathlands, and deciduous forests. This region, part of the larger Campina area, is known for its unique ecosystems. You'll find areas like Kampina Nature Reserve featuring wet heathland with fens and scented gale thickets, offering a blend of natural beauty and tranquil water bodies.
Are there family-friendly lakes or activities near Best?
Yes, several lakes around Best are considered family-friendly. For instance, Palingven offers a small sandy beach, which can be pleasant for families. Kampina Nature Reserve and Huisvennen are also great for family walks, with opportunities to observe nature.
Where can I find good walking or hiking trails around the lakes?
Many lakes in the Best region are surrounded by walking trails. Huisvennen is particularly noted for its beautiful nature reserve with several marked trails. The wider Kampina Nature Reserve also offers a variety of paths through its diverse landscapes. For more structured routes, you can explore the Running Trails around Best guide, which includes routes like the 'Langven loop'.
Are there any lakes suitable for swimming or relaxing by the water?
While specific wild swimming spots are not explicitly highlighted, Palingven is known for its small sandy beach and was historically a popular bathing spot. It offers a quiet place for relaxation by the water, especially in summer when it's adorned with water lilies.
What unique features or wildlife can I observe at the lakes?
The lakes and surrounding areas offer unique natural observations. At Kampina Nature Reserve, you might see horses running free in the natural setting. Palingven is notable for its beautiful water lilies in summer. The fens and heathlands are home to diverse flora and fauna, including specific plant species like scented gale thickets.
What outdoor activities, besides walking, are available near the lakes?
Beyond walking, the region around Best offers excellent opportunities for cycling and mountain biking. You can find various routes in the Cycling around Best guide, which includes routes through areas like Kampina Nature Reserve. For mountain biking enthusiasts, the MTB Trails around Best guide provides options like the 'Red MTB Route Best'.
Are there any historical points of interest near the lakes?
Yes, some lakes have interesting historical connections. For example, Kogelvangersven, a beautiful fen, was historically used in the 18th century by the gendarmerie for shooting practice, firing across the fen into sand walls. This adds a unique historical layer to the natural landscape.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the lakes around Best?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and natural beauty of the lakes. Many enjoy the varied landscapes, from wet heathlands to forests, and the opportunity for peaceful walks. The presence of free-roaming horses in areas like Kampina Nature Reserve is often cited as a beautiful sight, and the quiet relaxation offered by spots like Palingven is highly valued.
Are the lakes around Best suitable for dog walking?
The natural reserves and trails around the lakes are generally popular for dog walking. Areas like Huisvennen and Kampina Nature Reserve offer extensive walking opportunities. However, it's always advisable to check local signage for specific rules regarding dogs, especially in nature reserves where wildlife is present.
When is the best time to visit the lakes around Best?
The lakes around Best can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Summer brings water lilies to fens like Palingven and is ideal for relaxing by the water. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures for walking and observing nature's changing colors. Even in winter, the areas provide opportunities for quiet walks through the serene landscapes.
Are there any viewpoints to get a good overview of the lake areas?
Yes, you can find viewpoints that offer expansive views of the fens and heathlands. The Wit Hollandven Viewing Platform is located on the edge of the Landschotschen Heide and provides a wide view over the heathland and the pond. It's easily accessible and suitable for all ages.
Are there any lesser-known or 'hidden gem' lakes worth exploring?
While the main highlights are well-loved, exploring the numerous fens and smaller water bodies within the larger nature reserves can lead to discovering quieter spots. Kogelvangersven, for instance, is a beautiful fen that offers a more remote path along the Huisvennenroute, providing a sense of discovery away from busier areas.
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