The Loonse en Drunense Duinen bring together vast expanses of sand, gently rolling dunes and forests. A further 270 hectares of drifting sand form part of this inland sand-drift area, which is one of the largest in Western Europe. The Loonse en Drunense Duinen are also known as the “Brabant Sahara”. The contrast between open drifting sands and quiet forest paths shapes the landscape. You can hike, cycle or ride there; walking and cycling routes pass through varied landscapes of forest paths and open stretches of sand. This natural area reveals more than just one side of itself.

Huis ter Heide: waterways and walking trails

Huis ter Heide, between Loon Op Zand and De Moer, has a different natural character. Forests, heathland and waterways define the area; 24 constructed ponds provide valuable habitat for amphibians and birds. Visitors can make use of viewing towers and a boardwalk. Walking trails wind through the water-rich bird habitat, where Scottish Highland cattle roam. Route lengths range from 4.5 to 8 kilometres, giving you a useful guide when choosing a walk.

Villages and activities

The municipality of Loon Op Zand comprises the three church villages of Kaatsheuvel, Loon Op Zand and De Moer; each has its own character. Efteling is in Kaatsheuvel, with dozens of attractions, roller coasters and park shows. The theme park is accessible via the A59 and A65; from the N261, follow the signs to the park. Another way to explore Kaatsheuvel is the Spreekwoordenroute: an active family route with fun and educational activities. Twelve varied cycling routes pass through the area around Kaatsheuvel, Loon Op Zand and De Moer. The municipality also has designated routes for mountain bikers, horse riders and carriage drivers.

Churches, country estate and village life

Het Witte Kasteel in Loon Op Zand is a historic country estate and a national heritage monument (Rijksmonument); its history dates back to the 14th century. Volunteers offer historical tours of the castle and its gardens. If you are planning a tour, check the current dates in advance.

The present-day Sint-Jans Onthoofding church was founded in 1392 or 1394. Its interior contains numerous objects of art-historical interest. Another point of reference is the old church site at Kerkenakker: it has been documented since 1233; archaeological research indicates, with a high degree of probability, that a church already stood there around 1150. In De Moer, the H. Joachim church and presbytery complex is significant for its cultural and architectural history, as well as for its value as an ensemble. In Kaatsheuvel, Molen De Couwenberg is one of the notable national heritage monuments (Rijksmonumenten).

The village centres have cafés, restaurants and shops selling regional products. In general, in Loon Op Zand and De Moer, parking is available along the road and in designated areas; in most cases, it is free. Check the parking conditions before your visit, as they may change.

Discover more destinations

Loon Op Zand, Kaatsheuvel, De Moer, Maasdonk, Halderberge, Laarbeek, Etten-Leur, Heeze-Leende

For the overview of the wider region, see: North Brabant.