Visitor information
On this page you will find information for your visit to De Groote Peel National Park. If you can't find what you are looking for, please contact the Visitor centre.
It is important to know that the terrain in De Groote Peel can be very muddy. The area is accessible through a variety of paths (including the former Peel paths along which the peat was transported). Walking on this springy, peaty soil is a whole new experience.
Nature Trails
All hiking trails in De Groote Peel are unpaved. These trails can get very muddy and slippery in rainy weather. This is caused by remains of peat in the soil. We advise sturdy and water resistant shoes or boots during extremely wet weather. When in doubt, ask the Zeven Mijl Visitor Centre to inform you about the condition of trails. In summer be aware that insects can be bothersome.
Stay on the trails!
Most of the paths are easily accessible with a children's buggy. Paths marked with red and blue posts are partly 'knuppelpaden', boardwalks which will lead you safely through the bogs and without getting your feet muddy or soaked. So stay on the trails!
Wheelchair?
For more information, click on wheelchair.
Dogs and other animals
You can bring your dog along to De Groote Peel but on a leash. In summer you may encounter free roaming horses and cattle on your walk. They are peaceful animals and visitors don't have to be afraid of them as long as they are left alone. So do not feed or pet the animals, do not put your children on the back of a horse or cow and when hiking in a larger group of people, don't corner or encircle the animals. Keep your distance.
Seasonal closure Nature reserve
Nature reserve parts of De Groote Peel National Park are closed during nesting seasons or migration. See Visitors page for more information about opening times.
Rules and regulations
visitors have access to all roads and paths
It is not allowed to stray off roads and paths
It is not allowed to drive a car, cycle, or ride on horseback
It is not allowed to bring an unleashed dog
Seasonal closure
During nesting season and bird migration De Groote Peel National Park will be closed (from March 15 to July 15 and October 15 to November 30), with the exception of the hiking trails and the south-eastern part of the park.
Grazing animals
During your walk you may encounter free roaming animals such as horses and in summer, cattle. They are peaceful animals and visitors don't have to be afraid as long as they are left alone. So do not feed or pet the animals, keep your distance and when you are hiking with a larger group of people, don't corner or encircle the animals.
Animals grazing in this area may react unpredictably to visitors so please
keep your distance; at least 25 meters
do not walk into a herd of cattle
leave the animals alone
don't feed or pet animals
be aware of the risks