A Spring Day Hiking in and around Wellenseind Estate
March 2026
A Smooth Start
The bus and train ride went smoothly, and I arrived at Tilburg University station right on time. My friend showed up at the same moment, and we quickly set off for our hike. The weather was perfect as we drove to the Wellenseind Estate. Jan Zeeman, founder of the well-known retail chain, acquired this property in 2000, restored the land, and generously opened much of it to the public.
Coffee, Cake and Soup
We began our day at Voor Anker with coffee and a treat, making a dinner reservation immediately since we knew we’d want to return. My friend had planned a 16-kilometer route through the surrounding estates. The area feels very “Old Dutch,” with small dikes and abundant water. Being early in the season, we were able to enjoy the views without a single mosquito.
Around one o’clock, we stopped at Herberg In den Bockenreyder along the trail. Still full from our morning apple pie, a bowl of soup was enough. We found a spot out of the wind and soaked up the spring sunshine alongside many others who had the same idea.
A Landscape Defined by Water
An hour later, we were back on the trail toward Wellenseind. At the D’n Flaestoren observation tower, we took a quick climb to enjoy a magnificent view over the entire area. Along the way, informative signs explained how the estate has managed its water for centuries. Because water levels can fluctuate by up to 80 centimeters in a single day, forestry was historically difficult. To manage this, people built dikes, drainage ditches, and raised beds. However, with wetter winters and drier summers, this approach has shifted. To keep the area moist, ditches were made shallow and small dams were installed.
Memories and Connections
We ended the day with a wonderful dinner back where we started. As usual, we loved learning something new and connecting again, just as we’ve enjoyed for years. Before we drove off, we had already set the date for another outing this summer. When I hopped on the train to Utrecht, I felt tired, however refreshed, and was already looking forward to our next adventure.
Date
Tuesday, March 3, 2026
Distance
9.41 miles
15 km
Moving Time
3:11:57 hrs
Weather
14 °C, light air