
Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park
Experience the 'Brabant Sahara' at Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park, a vast natural area with shifting sand dunes, heathlands, and forests.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park
Best Time
Golden light, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the 'Brabant Sahara' at Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park, a vast natural area with shifting sand dunes, heathlands, and forests.
"A magical and picturesque place with wonderful lakes and yellow drone sand."

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sand can be tricky! Opt for sturdy walking shoes or boots for exploring the dunes and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The open sand dunes can get very hot. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially on sunny days. :sunwithface:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Drifting Sands
Central areas of the park
Experience the 'Brabant Sahara' with its vast, shifting sand dunes. Perfect for photography and feeling like you're in a desert oasis.

Heathland Blooms
Surrounding the sandy areas
Venture into the purple hues of blooming heathlands, offering a stunning contrast to the sandy landscapes.

Forest Trails
Edges of the park
Explore shaded forest paths, providing a cooler alternative and a different natural environment within the park.

Horseback Riding
Designated riding trails
Enjoy the unique experience of riding through the dunes and diverse landscapes on horseback.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Shifting Sands
Best Access Points
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sand can be tricky! Opt for sturdy walking shoes or boots for exploring the dunes and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The open sand dunes can get very hot. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially on sunny days. :sunwithface:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download park maps or use GPS apps to navigate the trails effectively. :iphone:
📸 Capture the Light
Golden hour offers magical light for photos. Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for stunning dune landscapes. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Sand can be tricky! Opt for sturdy walking shoes or boots for exploring the dunes and varied terrain. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Pack Sun Protection
The open sand dunes can get very hot. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water, especially on sunny days. :sunwithface:
🗺️ Download Offline Maps
Cell service can be spotty. Download park maps or use GPS apps to navigate the trails effectively. :iphone:
📸 Capture the Light
Golden hour offers magical light for photos. Plan your visit around sunrise or sunset for stunning dune landscapes. :camerawithflash:
🥾 Consider Rubber Boots
For children, rubber boots are recommended, especially after rain, as some areas can get muddy. :boot:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the park's unique 'Brabant Sahara' landscape, calling it beautiful, magical, and a wonderful escape into nature. The diverse scenery, including dunes, heathlands, and forests, is a major draw, offering something for everyone from dog walkers to cyclists and families. Some mention the need for appropriate footwear and sun protection.
"Beautiful and wonderful place to enjoy a sunny day and go back to nature. Multiple landscapes: sand dune, heide field, forest and lake. There are different routes for dog-walk, horse riding or biking"
Ho Vinh Thanh
"Nice little land.
Kids liked it.
You can walk,bike,ride horses etc."
biligunb
"Lovely inland Dunes, great for dog walking, horse riding, or just children digging a hole, climbing a tree or building a den from dead branches."
Jonathan ROBINSON
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The park is accessible by car, with several parking areas near the entrances. Public transport options include buses from nearby towns like Tilburg and Waalwijk. Some visitors recommend specific entrances like Roestelberg or Herberg De Drie Linden for easier access.
Yes, there are multiple parking facilities available at various entrances to the park. Some may have a small fee.
Yes, you can reach the vicinity of the park by bus from cities like Tilburg and Waalwijk. From the bus stop, you might need to walk a short distance to an entrance. Check local public transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Popular entrances include Plantloonseweg, Het Genieten, Roestelberg (all in Kaatsheuvel), Galgenwiel (Waalwijk), and Herberg De Drie Linden (Drunen). The best entrance depends on your planned activities and starting point.
While some main paths are relatively flat, the sandy terrain can be challenging for wheelchairs or strollers. It's best to check specific trail conditions or focus on areas with more compacted paths if mobility is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park is generally free. There are no admission fees to explore the natural landscapes.
The park is a natural area and is accessible at all times. However, visitor centers or facilities might have specific opening hours. It's always open for exploration.
While park entry is free, some parking areas might charge a small fee. There are no general entrance fees for the national park itself.
While the park offers opportunities for self-guided exploration, guided tours might be available through local tourism providers or park authorities. It's advisable to check their websites for booking information.
There are information points and facilities near some entrances, but the park is primarily a natural landscape. Check the official national park website for details on available visitor services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy walking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park's diverse landscapes also make it great for photography and nature observation.
Yes, there are various marked hiking trails catering to different lengths and difficulty levels. You can also explore off-trail in designated areas for a more adventurous experience.
Absolutely! Children love exploring the sand dunes, building dens, and climbing trees. Rubber boots are recommended for them, especially after rain.
Dogs are generally welcome in the park, but they must be kept on a leash in most areas to protect wildlife and other visitors. Check specific regulations for designated off-leash areas.
The park is home to various bird species, insects, and small mammals. Keep an eye out for heathland birds and insects that thrive in the sandy and heath environments.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are some restaurants and cafes located near the entrances or within the park's vicinity, offering refreshments and meals.
Yes, picnicking is a great way to enjoy the park. There are many scenic spots where you can set up a picnic. Remember to take all your trash with you.
Nearby towns like Kaatsheuvel, Drunen, and Waalwijk offer a range of dining options, from casual eateries to more formal restaurants.
Some facilities near the entrances might sell snacks and drinks, but it's advisable to bring your own, especially if you plan a longer excursion into the park.
While specific recommendations vary, look for 'eetcafes' or 'restaurants' near the park entrances for local cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The vast sand dunes, especially during golden hour, offer incredible photographic opportunities. The heathlands in bloom and the forest trails also provide diverse scenic backdrops.
Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) provide the most dramatic lighting for capturing the dunes and landscapes.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest rules and regulations regarding drone flights in national parks to ensure compliance.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes, while a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light photography during sunrise or sunset.
The shifting sands can be a challenge, so protect your gear from sand. Also, be mindful of changing weather conditions, especially wind and rain.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Recommendations: Pack plenty of snacks and drinks, and consider bringing rubber boots for the little ones, as some areas can get muddy. Encourage them to build sandcastles or explore the forest edges. The park offers a refreshing change of pace from typical tourist attractions, providing an adventurous and educational experience for children.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Recommendations: Wear comfortable hiking boots, as the sandy terrain can be demanding. Bring a good map or GPS device, as cell service can be spotty. Don't forget water and snacks for longer hikes. The park is particularly beautiful during spring and autumn for its colors and milder weather.
📸 Photographers
Recommendations: A wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod will be invaluable for low-light conditions. Be prepared for wind and sand, and protect your camera gear accordingly. The heathlands in bloom also provide stunning photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the 'Brabant Sahara'
Visitors can explore these sandy expanses on foot, with many trails winding through the dunes. The feeling of being surrounded by endless sand, with only sparse vegetation, is truly captivating. It's a photographer's paradise, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light casts long shadows and paints the sand in warm hues. Remember to wear appropriate footwear, as walking on soft sand can be tiring.
Beyond the dunes, the park seamlessly transitions into other fascinating landscapes. You'll find areas of heathland, which burst into vibrant purple during late summer, and dense forests offering shade and a different kind of natural beauty. This variety ensures that every visit offers a new perspective and a rich sensory experience.
Activities for Every Adventurer
Cycling and mountain biking are popular activities, with dedicated paths that wind through forests and along the edges of the dunes. Horseback riding is another highlight, with specific routes available for equestrian enthusiasts to experience the park's unique terrain from a different perspective.
For families, the park is a natural playground. Children can delight in building sandcastles, climbing trees, and exploring the natural environment. The varied landscapes provide endless opportunities for imaginative play and discovery, making it an ideal destination for a family day out.
Best Times and Tips for Your Visit
When planning your trip, remember to wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes, as the sandy terrain can be challenging. Sun protection, including sunscreen and a hat, is essential, especially during sunny days. Bringing plenty of water is also crucial. For families, rubber boots are a good idea for children, as some areas can become muddy.
Navigating the park is made easier with offline maps or GPS devices, as mobile reception can be unreliable in some areas. Consider downloading a park map beforehand. While the park is free to enter, be aware that some parking areas may have a fee. Enjoy the freedom of exploring this unique natural wonder!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit