Top 20 Lakes around Helmond
Best lakes around Helmond include both developed recreational areas and natural fens within heathlands. Helmond, a municipality in the Netherlands, features Berkendonk, a significant recreational lake located east of the town. This area offers diverse water-based activities and natural surroundings. Beyond Berkendonk, the region also encompasses extensive heathlands with fens, providing opportunities for walking and observing local flora and fauna.
Best lakes around Helmond
- The most popular lakes is Berkendonk Recreational Lake, a lake that offers free access for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. It features sandy beaches, facilities like toilets and catering, and designated areas for activities such as windsurfing and sailing.
- Another must-see spot is Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, an other_natural area known for its vast heathland and the Beuven bog, which is the largest bog in the Netherlands. Visitors can explore natural paths and observe special plants and various bird species.
- Visitors also love Keelven, a lake area south of the Strabrechtse Heide. This location features restored fens and diverse forests, offering a beautiful natural landscape for walking and relaxation.
- Helmond is known for recreational lakes and natural fens within heathland areas. These provide a variety of experiences, from active water sports to tranquil nature walks.
- The lakes around Helmond are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 550 upvotes and over 50 photos shared across 10 highlights.
Last updated: May 3, 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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Keelven
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But when the mines closed, people started to care about nature again. They are now transforming those production forests into forests with all kinds of different types of trees and small heathlands with fens. They restored the fens according to the natural landscape, and this created the Keelven, along with a few other small fens.
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Berkendonk Recreational Lake
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Bakelse Lakes
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Tips from the Community
Bakelse plassen, I think, were created by dredging work. In the distance you can still see sand being extracted there.
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Over the years, the Bakelse Plassen have become a rich bird area, both on the banks and on the water. Daubenton's bats also thrive here. And in the early morning hours, you might encounter deer coming to drink. For example, breeding waterfowl can be found here: grebes, little grebes, mute swans, greylag geese, mallards, tufted ducks, gadwalls, little ringed plovers, moorhens, and coots. In 2019, 269 sand martins were counted, and last year, 229 sand martins were counted. Many bird species have also found their breeding grounds and habitats on the banks and the adjacent golf course. Some of the breeding species found here include: the green, black, lesser spotted and great spotted woodpecker, woodlark, barn swallows, tree pipit and meadow pipit, black redstart, stonechat, mockingbird, treecreeper, blackcap, greenfinches, goldfinches, linnet, yellowhammer and the beautiful bullfinch.
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Free swimming in this public lake that is also supervised by the volunteer lifeguards. Very busy in good weather.
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Beautiful fens on the Somerense Heide. With many walking and cycling routes. It can be very busy on weekends. Paths are used by walkers and cyclists. So watch out.
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Nice place with a nice bike path. Very crowded though. There are also toilets with running water ;-)
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The small body of water is called Beuven. The paths here are great for cycling.
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An area of over 35 hectares has been created for the development of new nature to compensate for sand extraction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of activities can I enjoy at the lakes around Helmond?
The lakes around Helmond offer a variety of activities. At Berkendonk Recreational Lake, you can swim, sunbathe, windsurf, and sail. For nature lovers, areas like Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven and Keelven are ideal for walking, birdwatching, and observing unique flora in vast heathlands and fens.
Are there family-friendly lakes in the Helmond area?
Yes, Berkendonk Recreational Lake is particularly family-friendly. It features clean, gradually sloping water perfect for children, sandy beaches, a playground, and facilities like toilets and catering. The surrounding natural areas also offer easy walking paths suitable for families.
Where can I go for a nature walk or hike near the lakes?
For nature walks and hiking, explore Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, known for its extensive heathland and the large Beuven bog. Another excellent option is Keelven, which features restored fens and diverse forests, providing beautiful natural landscapes for walking. You can find various hiking routes in the region on the Hiking around Helmond guide.
What natural features can I expect to see around the lakes?
The region boasts diverse natural features. At Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, you'll encounter vast heathlands, the Beuven bog, and unique plants like water spoons and carnivorous sundew, along with various bird species. Keelven offers restored fens and diverse forests. Even around Berkendonk Recreational Lake, there are walking paths, a marsh pond, a grassy viewpoint, and a small forest where birds can be observed.
Are there facilities available at the recreational lakes?
Yes, Berkendonk Recreational Lake is well-equipped with facilities. These include toilet and shower units, catering options (like a snack bar), playground equipment, and a first aid station. There are also water sports clubs for windsurfing and sailing.
What are the parking options for visiting the lakes?
For Berkendonk Recreational Lake, parking is free but can be limited, especially on busy days. It's often recommended to arrive by bicycle or on foot if possible. Other natural areas like Strabrechtse Heide and Keelven typically have designated parking areas near trailheads.
Can I cycle around the lakes in Helmond?
Absolutely! The areas around Helmond's lakes and heathlands are popular for cycling. Strabrechtse Heide features natural paths suitable for gravel or normal bike tires, with dedicated cycle paths opening up the region. You can find various cycling routes, including those passing near Berkendonk Recreational Lake, in the Cycling around Helmond guide.
Is there a nudist beach near Helmond?
Yes, a nudist beach is located on the north end of Berkendonk Recreational Lake.
What makes the Beuven bog special?
The Beuven bog, located within Strabrechtse Heide and Beuven, is the largest bog in the Netherlands. It's a unique natural wonder where special plants like water spoons and carnivorous sundew thrive, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Are there any picnic spots with views of the water?
Yes, there is a lovely Picnic spot at the Kiezelven. This small heath lake offers a beautiful place to take a break with benches and tables, perfect for enjoying the view near a bicycle path and walking route.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Helmond?
The lakes and surrounding natural areas are enjoyable year-round. Warm days are ideal for swimming and water sports at Berkendonk Recreational Lake. For walking and nature observation in areas like Strabrechtse Heide and Keelven, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, though winter walks can also be serene.
Are dogs allowed on trails near the lakes?
While specific rules can vary, many natural areas in the Netherlands, including heathlands and forests, often permit dogs, usually on a leash. It's always best to check local signage at specific locations like Strabrechtse Heide or Keelven for the most current regulations regarding dog access.
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