Oude Warande
The Oude Warande is the only preserved star forest in the Netherlands. And we are not talking about stars in the sky, but stars on the ground: in fact, the avenues in the forest run towards each other in a star shape. It is also one of the oldest baroque forests in our country.
Warande
Willem van Hessen-Kassel, the lord of Tilburg and Goirle, had this park created in 1712 as a personal hunting ground. A warande is a special kind of hunting ground where game is protected. No idea how they protected that game by shooting it, but the animals here fare much better these days. From place for hunting, this park has turned into a versatile place for nature enjoyment. But who knows, if you're lucky, you might still see a mis-shot pellet of William hanging in a tree somewhere.
Weird snouts
The Oude Warande is a fairly typical forest in terms of animals and trees. But there is an odd snout roaming around here: the Siberian ground squirrel. These non-native animals escaped from the Tilburg Animal Park that was once located on this property. The descendants of these fugitives are still happily gnawing away in the woods.
Labyrint
In the Oude Warande you will find the Tilia Labyrinth. Don't confuse this with a maze. No high hedges, dead ends or ruses, but a winding path that always leads to your goal. Mazes are meant to get lost in; in a labyrinth, on the contrary, you find your way. It is an ancient universal symbol that is about the path inward, to your inner knowing. So are you in a spiritual mood? Come along!
The spot
For the finest spot in the Oude Warande, you have to be in the middle of 'the star'. This is where you will find the Grotto. This glass pavilion was designed by Australian artist Callum Morton as part of the art exhibition Lustwarande. The mirrored exterior reflects the eight walkways. It's artsy and stylish. But you can also just score a beer and a slice of apple pie.
Parking
- Auberge du Bonheur, Bredaseweg 441
- Zwartvenseweg, south of railroad crossing
- Terrain Tilburg University, end of Warandelaan
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