Strabrechtse Heide

Why Strabrechtse Heide is worth your time

Strabrechtse Heide lies between Heeze and Lierop, in the south-east of Noord-Brabant. It is one of the larger heathland areas in the Netherlands, with open plains, drifting sand, pine forests and the large pool Beuven. That variety is exactly what makes it interesting to photograph. You will not be done here in ten minutes.

Beuven is the largest fen in the Benelux, and you feel that the moment you stand beside it. The water reflects the sky and the surrounding vegetation. When there is little wind, you get mirror images that are almost too good to be true. A wide focal length, 24mm or wider, serves you well here. Make sure your frame includes both the reflection and the sky.

August is the best time

The heather typically blooms in August. The landscape turns purple, up close and all the way to the horizon. That is when you want to be here. The colour is strongest in the morning and evening, when the light is low and warm. Midday sun quickly turns the purple heather into a flat, washed-out mass with no texture.

Misty mornings in August or September are invaluable. The mist lifts slowly, forms layers above the fen and gives the trees a mysterious, almost graphic quality. You need to get up early for it, before sunrise, but it is worth it.

Practical

There are several entrances. You can park at the entrance on Strabrechtseweg near Heeze. Bear in mind that barriers close in the evening. The area is managed by Staatsbosbeheer. Permits are not required for personal use, but commercial shoots in the wild require consultation with the land manager.

The area is large enough to find quiet spots, even at weekends. Go early and avoid the school holidays if you want to keep people out of frame. A tripod is useful for longer shutter speeds at the fen. Boots are not a luxury once you leave the main paths.

Sources and further reading

• Staatsbosbeheer — Strabrechtse Heide
• Wikipedia — Beuven
• Wikipedia — Strabrechtse Heide