Dorst, Gilze and Chaam

Your cycling tour starts in a rugged nature reserve with sand drifts and wet heathland, where you now see many Scots pines. Fens were drained and grasslands were created where areas were too wet. In the varied nature of the Chaamse Bossen, plants grow that thrive on relatively acidic soil and floral herbs and grassy plants are scattered here and there between the trees. Many different bird species can be found in the treetops: the yellowhammer, the nightjar, the woodlark, the collared redstart and the tree pipit are just a few of the many songbirds that live in the area. Birds of prey also feel at home there. Buzzard, sparrowhawk, hawk, kestrel and honey buzzard hunt across the grasslands, which are inhabited by teal, tufted duck and black-necked grebe. The fin-legged and alpine newts also seek out the moist ground, but deer prefer to remain hidden: they graze between the trees. If you come near Boswachterij Dorst, don't be shocked if you suddenly come face to face with an Exmoor pony or a Scottish Highlander. These herd animals are used as natural lawn mowers. They ensure that new growth has the opportunity to grow, without the area becoming too dense.