The royal backyard of Breda – three walks through the ancient Mastbos

Some 500 years ago, where the Mastbos now lies, was a heathland with some small oak woods. In 1515, Count Hendrik III of Nassau changed the landscape when he ordered pine trees to be planted in the area. And so, the Mastbos was born. Seven centuries later, this oldest planted pine forest in the Netherlands is unsurprisingly popular with hikers.

History is still alive in the Mastbos. For example, you can still enjoy the 5,300-metres (17,360 ft) Maurits Square, designed by Prince Maurits, today. The prince believed that the forest should be managed and planned, so he ordered for it to be mapped. A fenced hunting area was also created with ramparts, trees and ditches. It’s worth taking a detour to the 15th-century fairytale Bouvigne Castle, which is surrounded by three special gardens: a French, English and German one.

With many ancient trees and several ponds, the Galderse Heide is one of the highlights of the Mastbos. This beautiful heathland is accessible for everyone, including those in wheelchairs. In honour of the forest’s 500th anniversary, the Forestry Commission constructed a plank boardwalk across the heath in the southern part of the forest. From the decking, you get a beautiful view whilst keeping your feet dry when the ground is swampy.

Numerous hiking trails lead through the Mastbos, so I put together three of my favourite that are between 8 to 14 km (5 to 9 mi) long. You set off from the Oude Postbaan car park, but you can also choose the car park at Bouvigne Paradijs restaurant next to Bouvigne Castle instead. From Breda, bus lines 132 and 4 also pass by the Mastbos. Dogs must always be on a lead in the forest.

Along the routes, you’ll find plenty of places to stop for a drink or snack, including 'De Boschwachter in 't Mastbos'.