Top 20 Natural Monuments around Best
Natural monuments around Best, located in the province of North Brabant, Netherlands, feature diverse landscapes. The region is characterized by heathlands, fens, sand drifts, and forests, offering varied natural environments. These areas provide opportunities to experience the local ecology and geological formations. The municipality is surrounded by significant natural features, including restored river systems and former heathlands.
Best natural monuments around Best
- The most popular natural monuments is Palingven, a lake that is one of many pools on the…
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Palingven
Highlight • Lake
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Kogelvangersven
Highlight • Lake
Natuurmonumenten wants to give drifting …
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Fish passes on the Beerze
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Pieter van Tienhoven Memorial
Highlight • Monument
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Bronze Age Burial Mounds at Vessem
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tips from the Community
The burial mounds near Vessem are among the oldest visible traces of habitation in this region and date back to the Bronze Age (approx. 2000–800 BC). These low, round mounds were erected as burial sites and are often still subtly recognizable in the landscape. In the Bronze Age, it was customary to cremate the deceased. The ashes were then buried in an urn or directly in the ground, after which a mound of sand and turf was placed over it. Sometimes multiple burials were made in one burial mound, causing it to grow over time. The burial mounds are often located on higher sandy soils, as near Vessem, because these spots were dry and clearly visible in the landscape. They probably served not only a funerary purpose but also as markers of territory or important routes. Many burial mounds have been flattened over the centuries by agriculture and forestry, but a number have been preserved and today form a valuable archaeological monument. During a walk, they are sometimes only visible as slight elevations in the forest — silent witnesses to thousands of years of human history. A special element in the landscape, where nature and prehistory literally come together.
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When you walk along the stream, you hear the babbling sound of the flowing water in the Beerze Valley. My mind drifts to babbling brooks and streams in mountainous terrain. Wonderful!!
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The fish ladder in the Beerze river was constructed to allow fish to move freely up the stream again. The system consists of fourteen low basalt steps, where the water makes a short drop at each step, then forms a resting basin. This allows species such as chub, stone loach, stickleback, and spined loach to swim gradually against the current without becoming exhausted. The fish ladder is part of the broader stream restoration project for the Beerze river. This restoration has returned the stream to a more natural, meandering course, allowing the current, riparian zones, and the ecosystem to function as they once did. The fish ladder prevents height differences or old weirs from forming barriers and ensures that fish once again have access to their spawning grounds upstream. This is an interesting point for hikers because it clearly demonstrates how nature conservation and water management converge: a practical structure that has a direct impact on biodiversity in the Beerze valley.
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fish ladder dried up.
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Nice in the sun, benches and enjoy
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The son of the previous owner of the Kampina, Pieter van Tienhoven, has made great efforts as chairman of Natuurmonumenten to preserve the Kampina, the preservation of meandering streams, and for nature conservation in general. His ashes were scattered on the Kampina at the spot where his memorial stone was also erected. This viewpoint was his favorite spot.
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Beautiful surroundings to take a rest
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In the immediate vicinity of this monument I found two other memorials at the base of a tree. A stone with a bird on it and a heart-shaped memorial with the text “Rest in peace”. I do not know whether there is a relationship with the large memorial.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of natural features can I expect to see around Best?
The natural monuments around Best offer a diverse landscape, including expansive heathlands, fens, sand drifts, and forests. You'll find serene lakes like Palingven and Belvers Ven, as well as restored river systems like the Beerze with its unique fish passes. Areas like Oirschotse Heide feature a mix of these elements, providing varied natural environments for exploration.
Are there any natural monuments around Best with historical significance?
Yes, several natural monuments in the region have interesting historical connections. For instance, Kogelvangersven was historically used as a gendarmerie shooting range. The Oirschotse Heide, while primarily a natural area, also served as a military training ground and contains remnants from WWII. The Vlagheide, a former heathland, was home to an Allied airfield during Operation Market Garden.
Which natural monuments are suitable for families with children?
Many natural monuments around Best are family-friendly. Palingven offers a quiet atmosphere with a small sandy beach, perfect for a relaxed outing. Kogelvangersven and Belvers Ven are also great choices, providing easy walking paths and scenic views. The Fish passes on the Beerze can be an educational stop for children to learn about river ecosystems.
What kind of wildlife can I observe in the natural monuments near Best?
The region is rich in wildlife. The Oirschotse Heide is known for various butterfly species, including the silver-studded blue and marsh fritillary, and the rare cone-headed grasshopper. Diessens Broek is a paradise for birdwatchers, especially in spring, with a high density of meadow birds like godwits, snipe, linnets, and marsh warblers, and even has a viewing tower for observation. You might also spot various water birds around the fens and river areas.
Are there good places for birdwatching near Best?
Absolutely. Diessens Broek, located east of the Annanina's Rust estate, is an excellent spot for birdwatching. It's characterized by open meadows and hayfields along the Reusel river valley, making it an important area for meadow birds. A dedicated viewing tower provides optimal opportunities to observe species such as godwits, snipe, and marsh warblers, particularly in spring.
Where can I find viewpoints with panoramic scenery around Best?
For panoramic views, the Vlagheide is a notable location. Its 'Vlagheideberg,' a hill formed from a former landfill, reaches 36.9 meters above NAP and offers extensive views of the surrounding region, including the skylines of 's-Hertogenbosch and Eindhoven. The Pieter van Tienhoven Memorial also offers a pleasant viewpoint within a natural setting.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The natural monuments around Best are ideal for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking and walking routes, especially in areas like Oirschotse Heide and Vlagheide. Cycling is also very popular, with numerous paths for road cycling, gravel biking, and general touring. Explore options like Road Cycling Routes around Best, Gravel biking around Best, and Cycling around Best. Mountain biking and horseback riding are also possible in designated areas like Oirschotse Heide.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around Best?
The best time to visit depends on your interests. Spring is excellent for birdwatching, especially in areas like Diessens Broek, when meadow birds are abundant. Summer offers pleasant conditions for swimming and enjoying sandy beaches at lakes like Palingven. Autumn brings beautiful colors to the forests and heathlands, making it ideal for hiking and cycling. The diverse landscapes ensure there's something to appreciate year-round.
Are there any natural monuments that are particularly quiet or secluded?
Yes, if you're looking for tranquility, Palingven is known for its quiet atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by trees. The tips from visitors often highlight the silence and relaxation found here. Many of the smaller fens and less-trafficked paths within the larger heathlands also provide opportunities for solitude.
Can I find areas with sand dunes or drifting sands near Best?
Yes, the Oirschotse Heide is a prominent area featuring expansive drifting sand alongside heathland and forests. Nature restoration efforts at places like Kogelvangersven are also focused on promoting heath and drifting sand, allowing visitors to experience these unique natural formations.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Best?
Visitors frequently appreciate the diverse and tranquil natural environments. Many enjoy the quiet atmosphere of lakes like Palingven and the scenic beauty of the fens. The opportunity for extensive walking and cycling, combined with the chance to observe wildlife and historical elements, makes these areas highly valued by the komoot community.
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