Zandbos forest

Infertile sandy soil was blown away here due to overgrazing by sheep and the cutting of peat for a deep litter house. The nuisance caused by the blowing sand and the need for wood in the Limburg mines in the 19th century made the government decide to plant Scots pines. The pure - and therefore mineral-poor sandy soil - has created a rare nature reserve in which lichen able to survive like pioneers under very extreme conditions grow naturally.

Buntven
An attractive place in this forest is the Buntven, a blown-out hollow that retains water. Characteristic plants such as cotton grass and sundew can be found here. However, measures need presently be taken to preserve these plants. For they are in danger of being pushed out by purple moor grass, which is better equipped to grow on the enriched soils. The four wildlife tunnels underpassing the N270 roadway allow many animal species to move safely between the northern and southern part of the woodland.

Natural playground
The Zandbos forest is also a forest to play in. In late 2012, the ‘natural playground’ was opened, a lovely spot to play in natural surroundings. The young ones are able to build huts, climb on the playground equipment, slide down the cable way and sit on the Viking swing. By using the natural elements of the landscape and matching playground equipment, a challenging and educational play environment has been created. Come and see for yourself and discover adventure in Deurne!

Toddler route
For the little ones (0-4 years) a special toddler path was created with a task booklet that is available for free at Deurne Tourist Information Office.