Highlight • Religious Site
Chapel of the Holy Oak, Oirschot
Hiking
4.9
(138)
Road cycling
4.9
(58)
The Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot is a revered historic pilgrimage site and religious building located just west of Oirschot in the Dutch province of North Brabant. Nestled peacefully in the scenic Beerze river valley, north of the historic Baest estate, this chapel stands at an elevation of approximately 17 meters above sea level. It is widely recognized as one of the most frequently visited chapels in the region, drawing thousands of visitors annually to its tranquil setting and…
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April 9, 2021
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•February 25, 2023
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•January 8, 2023
Hiking
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Best routes near Chapel of the Holy Oak, Oirschot
4.5
(60)
171
hikers
11.8km
02:59
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(44)
171
hikers
19.2km
04:50
20m
20m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.7
(56)
157
hikers
6.26km
01:35
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Details
Informations
Elevation 20 m
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Sunday 15 March
10°C
4°C
41 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 23.0 km/h
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the historical significance of the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
The Kapel van de Heilige Eik (Chapel of the Holy Oak) is a historic pilgrimage site dating back to the early 15th century. Its origins are tied to a legend where a statue of Mary, found on the banks of the Beerze river, miraculously returned to an oak tree after attempts to move it. This led to an annual pilgrimage and the construction of chapels on the site, with the current structure built in 1854 on older foundations.
What unique architectural and artistic features can be found inside the chapel?
Inside, the chapel boasts a beautiful baroque altar from 1746, crafted by Walter Pompe, which features a relief depicting the holy oak and the finder of the statue. The entrance incorporates pillars from the former rood screen of the Sint-Petruskerk. Visitors can also admire intricate stained-glass windows, some from 1947 by Jos van Dormolen depicting scenes from Mary's life, and others by Albert Troost (1951) and Jacques Slegers (1983) commemorating war and liberation.
Are there specific hiking trails or circular walks around the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
Yes, the area around the Kapel van de Heilige Eik is very popular for walking and cycling. While the terrain is generally flat and easy, there are numerous hiking routes and circular walks that allow visitors to explore the scenic Beerze river valley and the surrounding Brabant nature. These range from short strolls within the pilgrimage park to longer excursions into the countryside.
What is the terrain like around the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot, and what is the difficulty level for hiking?
The terrain around the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot is generally flat and well-suited for leisurely walks and cycling. Hikers can expect easy paths, making it accessible for most fitness levels. The elevation is approximately 17 meters above sea level, so there are no significant climbs, ensuring a comfortable experience for families and casual walkers.
Beyond the chapel, what other landmarks or natural features can visitors explore in the pilgrimage park?
The pilgrimage park surrounding the chapel offers several points of interest. Visitors can find a grotto of the Mother of Sorrows (Pieta) from 1911 and a small chapel honoring Anthony of Padua from 1909. Additionally, a stone Stations of the Cross, created by Mari Andriesse in 1934, was added to the park in 2002. The serene Beerze river valley itself is a beautiful natural feature for contemplation.
Is the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot suitable for families with children?
Yes, the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot is considered a family-friendly destination. The calm environment, easy walking paths, and historical significance make it suitable for all ages. Children can enjoy the gentle walks around the pilgrimage park and the natural surroundings, while the chapel offers a quiet space for reflection.
Are dogs allowed on the trails near Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
While the chapel itself is a religious site, the surrounding natural area and trails are generally welcoming for dogs. Many outdoor enthusiasts bring their dogs on walks and cycling routes in the Beerze river valley. It's always advisable to keep dogs on a leash and clean up after them to respect other visitors and the natural environment.
What are the opening hours for the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
The chapel is partially open 24 hours, allowing for flexible visits. The back part of the chapel, which houses some of the main features, is accessible from sunrise to sunset. This arrangement provides ample opportunity for visitors to experience the chapel's interior and light a candle.
Are there any cafes or pubs near Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
The Kapel van de Heilige Eik is situated in a natural, serene setting outside the main village. While there are no immediate cafes or pubs directly adjacent to the chapel, the nearby town of Oirschot offers various options for refreshments and dining. Visitors often combine their visit to the chapel with a stop in Oirschot for food and drinks.
What is the best season to visit the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot for optimal weather and fewer crowds?
The best time to visit is during spring or early autumn. These seasons offer pleasant weather for walking and cycling, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery. While the chapel is popular year-round, visiting outside of peak summer weekends might offer a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds, allowing for deeper contemplation.
Is there public transport available to reach Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
The Kapel van de Heilige Eik is located in a rural area west of Oirschot. While direct public transport to the chapel's doorstep might be limited, visitors can typically reach Oirschot by bus from larger towns. From Oirschot, the chapel is accessible via a pleasant walk or cycle ride through the scenic countryside.
How long does it typically take to visit the Kapel van de Heilige Eik Oirschot?
A visit to the Kapel van de Heilige Eik itself, including time for contemplation and exploring the pilgrimage park, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour. However, many visitors choose to combine their visit with longer walks or cycling tours in the surrounding Beerze river valley, extending their stay to several hours to fully enjoy the natural beauty and tranquility.