Gilze owns the centuries-old Valkenberg Estate, hidden in the forest, is the manor house that belonged to knight Willem van Berchem in the 15th century. Perhaps the Chaamse Bos is the oldest forest in the Kempen region. Valkenberg forms almost one entity with the estates, on the territory of Alphen-Chaam, Hondsdonk, Oud-Lugtenburg and Luchtenburg. Together they have an area of about 560 ha and connect to the Strijbeekse Heide. Several streams run through Valkenberg Estate and there is a varied flora and fauna.
Discover the beautiful vistas and views in the area and the typical farmhouses that are unique in this region. The current avenue system was created around 1770 and is open to walkers. Highly recommended is the open avenue the Meeldreef (pictured). The avenue is surrounded by giant trees that provide a mighty look. On either side runs a donkey trail, which used to be used by staff. The burial mound is also worth seeing, though empty in the basement. Except for the area around the manor house, the estate is open to the public.
Visiting address: Valkenberg 3, 5126 NA Gilze.
Directions to Landgoed Valkenberg
Would you like to explore Valkenberg Estate? Then take the route: Tilburg - Gilzerbaan - Gilze - Chaamseweg - Snijders-Chaam. Past the forester's house on Gilzeweg, where the woods have stopped, take the narrow asphalt road on the right opposite a campsite. At the Snijders-Chaam crossroads, turn right into Zandstraat. You then drive along the dirt road into the woods. You then emerge on the northeast side of Valkenberg.