Grotenhout Woods cover an area of 300 hectares. It is located southwest of Turnhout, on the border of the municipalities of Lille and Vosselaar. The park is rich in rare plants: a total of more than 360 species have been identified.
The fauna is also very varied. Grotenhout Woods provide ideal habitat for roe deer and several species of bats. Thanks to the pond, the area is home to numerous shorebirds, waterfowl and dragonflies, and the paths around the lake provide pleasant recreation for numerous diurnal butterflies
History
Grotenhout Woods is one of the few old areas of woodland of any size in the Kempen region and has a rich history.
Grotenhout Woods was part of the Land of Turnhout since its creation in 1356, so the lords of Turnhout decided on its management. In 1430, Philip the Good added the park to his list of 'free woods'; the landowner's most important hunting parks. These free woods enjoyed his special protection. Until the end of the 17th century, hunting was the main activity in Grotenhout Woods, with roe deer and wild boar the main big game. This changed in the 18th century, when the important noble families focused more on timber production.
More info, including on walks in this area, can be found on the Natuur en Bos site.
Parking
If you want to visit the park, you can park at the intersection of De Breem and Rijdtstraat (on the bridge). The entrance to Grotenhout Woods is also located here.
