Walking at Eyckenlust

IVN Laarbeek is organizing a public walk to the fascinating old Eyckenlust estate.

The starting point is the gas station on Brugstraat. The tour lasts approximately two hours. During this walk, IVN guides will talk about the history of the castle and the unique vegetation and fauna of the nature reserve.

The area covers approximately 75 hectares. The former castle was destroyed during the Eighty Years' War; only the gatehouse dates back to 1500. The current house was built around 1658 and renovated in 1812. It is still inhabited by the De Jong family. The gatekeeper's lodge dates from 1870. In June 2025, a master plan was adopted by the municipal council, an important step to further set in motion the preservation and sustainability of the estate. The name Eyckenlust is due to the large number of oak trees. However, the site also features many historic trees, such as the 200-year-old lindens, the many old beeches, the black walnut, and a bald cypress. A few years ago, a native forest was planted.

The Aa flows through the area and connects to the canal. A dead arm, the Aa Canal, begins at the lock. Various aquatic animals have been discovered there by the IVN Water Working Group, such as the European bullhead, the blackmouth goby, and the marbled goby, as well as various species of perch, the minnow, and the European mudfish. You might also just spot a beaver, a badger, or a roe deer there. The ecological value of the area is largely determined by the great variety and diversity of functions. Kingfishers and yellow wagtails are regularly observed along the Aa. The scattered forests and thickets, interspersed with open meadows, are attractive to songbirds, woodpeckers, grey herons, birds of prey, and small mammals. The herbaceous layer is quite varied. Due to the peace, quiet, and low dynamics of use, these natural values ​​have developed in a multifaceted manner at Eyckenlust. More information on the IVN Laarbeek website or Facebook page.