Buulderbroek en cranendoncks Bos

The Buulderbroek stream valley and adjacent Cranendonck wetland forest are two beautiful nature
areas that are great to explore from the De Baronie nature gateway!
Buulderbroek
Buulderbroek has been designated by the province as a “Wet Natural Gem.” This nature reserve has
(potentially) high groundwater-dependent natural values. It is also Cranendonck's water catchment
area, where Brabant Water pumps up drinking water that it then transports through pipes to
residents after purifying it. The area is a bird and insect paradise.
Definitely worth a visit is the Immenhof, a gorgeous bee and flower garden. Accessible free of charge
and always open.
Cranendonck forest
The name “Cranendonck” recalls the many cranes that used to alight on this area to forage during
spring and fall migration. The Cranendonck forest is rich in water and marshland. This beautiful forest
area is, however, easily accessible thanks to the many boardwalk pathways. 
The forest borders on the Buulder Aa. This small river flows past the site of the former medieval
castle of Cranendonck, which was destroyed by the French in 1673. The foundations of the castle
have been recreated with stone baskets.
Baronie
This area is called “the Barony of Cranendonck.” This name refers to the former owners of the castle,
including Anna van Egmond, the first wife of William of Orange. In fact, “Baroness of Cranendonck” is
still one of the many titles of the Dutch Royal Family.
The beautiful white castle villa that stands there today dates back to the early nineteenth century.
This is also where you can find the experience garden of IVN Cranendonck, which includes a barefoot
path, gnome trail and large bee hotel.