Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park
1 / 10

Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park

4.7
·7k reviews·Drunen, Netherlands

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park

Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park

Best Time

Spring & Autumn mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

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.

4.7
(7k reviews)

"A magical and picturesque place with wonderful lakes and yellow drone sand."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Drifting Sands

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

Heathland Blooms

Surrounding the sandy areas

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

Forest Trails

Forest Trails

Edges of the park

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

Horseback Riding

Horseback Riding

Designated riding trails

Enjoy the unique experience of riding through the dunes and diverse landscapes on horseback.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Shifting Sands

This vast national park is known as the 'Brabant Sahara' for its expansive drifting sands. Plan for varied terrain, from sandy expanses to forests and heathlands. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the diverse landscapes.

Best Access Points

With multiple entrances, choosing the right one depends on your activity. Popular starting points include Kaatsheuvel and Drunen. Consider your planned route or activity, like horseback riding or cycling, when selecting your entry point.

Best Times

When
Spring & Autumn mornings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Cooler temperatures, sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Avoid weekend rush
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

This man is on the verge of making a grave mistake #fyp #michigan #dunes #sleepingbeardunes
@flow.waves
157.2K likes • 6.2M views

👟 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:

📍 dune succesion trail #indiana #nationalpark #indianadunes #indianadunesnationalpark #dunesuccessiontrail
@nikkibees
14.3K likes • 522.3K views
In the heart of Brabant (❤️❤️), only a 15 mins drive from Tilburg you can find National Park De Loonse en Drunense duinen. Growing up just across from this park I have spend a good amount of time exploring the park. Since l’m back it’s my little save heaven, nothing a good walk through the national park can’t fix. Oh, and De Loonse en Drunense duinen (literally translated: Loonse and Drunense dun...
maxxvrins
28 likes • 1.2K views

🗺️ 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:

Reisetipp: Besuche das größte Flugsandgebiet in Europa 🇪🇺 Speichere dir den Beitrag direkt ab für deine Reiseplanung! Ich habe uns einen tollen Tagesausflug in die Niederlande geplant. Und zwar ging es in den 📍 Nationalpark De Loonse en Drunense Duinen 📸 Wenn du Lust auf einen richtigen Tapetenwechsel hast und Sanddünengebiete magst, dann bist du genau richtig hier! Die De Loonse en Drunense...
yourwanderlustvacation
84 likes • 758 views

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

4.7
(7k reviews)

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

Unique desert-like dunes
Diverse natural landscapes
Great for outdoor activities

What People Dislike

Can be hot in summer
Sand can be challenging

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. Instagram

Yes, there are multiple parking facilities available at various entrances to the park. Some may have a small fee. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

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. Instagram+2

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. Reddit

Absolutely! Children love exploring the sand dunes, building dens, and climbing trees. Rubber boots are recommended for them, especially after rain. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. Instagram+2

Early mornings and late afternoons (golden hour) provide the most dramatic lighting for capturing the dunes and landscapes. Instagram

Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check the latest rules and regulations regarding drone flights in national parks to ensure compliance. Instagram

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. Instagram

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

The Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park is a fantastic destination for families. The vast sand dunes are a natural playground where kids can run, slide, and build. It's a great place for them to connect with nature and let their imaginations run wild. Reddit

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

For those who love to walk and immerse themselves in nature, this park is a dream. You can choose from well-marked trails or venture off-path for a more adventurous exploration. The diverse landscapes, from sandy plains to heathlands and forests, offer a rich variety of scenery. Reddit

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

The 'Brabant Sahara' offers unparalleled photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The interplay of light and shadow on the vast sand dunes creates dramatic and breathtaking scenes. Instagram+1

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'

The Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park is renowned for its expansive drifting sand areas, earning it the nickname 'Brabant Sahara'. This unique landscape covers a significant portion of the park, offering visitors a surreal, almost desert-like experience. The constantly shifting sands are a result of wind erosion and historical land use, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Walking through these vast sandy plains feels like stepping into another world, far removed from the typical Dutch scenery. Instagram+1

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. Instagram

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. Instagram

Activities for Every Adventurer

The Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park caters to a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. For hikers and walkers, numerous marked trails crisscross the park, ranging from short strolls to longer treks, allowing you to discover the diverse ecosystems. The ability to create your own routes without strict trails is also a draw for some, offering a sense of freedom and exploration. Reddit

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. Instagram+1

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. Reddit

Best Times and Tips for Your Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park, timing is key. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful natural colors, with fewer crowds than in peak summer. Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for photography due to the soft, golden light that illuminates the dunes. Instagram Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more tranquil experience. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Instagram 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!

You may also like