The nature reserve is located in the municipalities of Kalmthout and Wuustwezel, on the Dutch border. It is a small reed marsh with surrounding, sometimes wet grasslands and many rows of trees and wood edges. Together with its Dutch counterpart 'De Matjens', De Maatjes forms a cross-border nature reserve. It is especially important as a habitat for various species of reed and meadow birds. A beautiful area to come for a walk and enjoy the open landscape.
From peat extraction area to nature
The cross-border nature reserve was originally a stream valley with marshes, which is why it is relatively low-lying. Over time, the marshes have been used as a peat extraction area. This happened, among other things, with the construction of the Roosendaalse Vaart. These peat canals are still present in the area and ensure drainage of the area. At the same time, the regional agricultural area increased, especially on higher grounds. The share of extensively managed grasslands decreased. De Maatjes/de Matjens, the lower part of the original area, are the last remnant of the former marshland.
European top nature
De Maatjes is part of the European nature network Natura 2000 and is designated as a bird directive area. For example, it is a priority for De Maatjes that we work on restoring good water management, so that the conditions for bird species such as the curlew, hen harrier and bittern can improve. These are bird species that require a larger habitat than the current area. That is why, among other things, expanding suitable grasslands and reed land is important.
With a number of targeted development works, the Agency for Nature and Forests is restoring the habitat of European protected bird species in De Maatjes. The improvement of nature not only makes the area more valuable for the characteristic marsh species, but also for visitors. The works fit in with the Blue Deal programme, which aims to restore wet nature. These areas are known for their sponge effect and form important carbon storage sites, so that their restoration counteracts the negative effects of climate change. Read more about the works.
Lookout tower De Klot
Be sure to visit De Klot, a 7-metre-high lookout tower from which you can look out over the wide area. The name 'de Klot' refers to a clog, a lump of peat or turf. You will also get more information about the peat past.