Baardwijkse Overlaat, Nature reserve in Waalwijk, Netherlands.
The Baardwijkse Overlaat is a nature reserve stretching between Drunen and Waalwijk that contains woodlands, pastures, and the lake called Nieuwe Wiel. These different habitats combine to create a diverse landscape for wildlife.
The area was originally created in 1766 to direct and hold water from the Meuse River during flood periods. Over time, farms located in the territory between Baardwijk and Drunen were gradually removed to allow nature to return.
The site serves as a vital stopover for migratory birds that pause here during their seasonal journeys. Visitors can watch numerous bird species using the area for feeding and rest.
The grounds are accessible via marked pathways that lead through the different habitats and invite exploration. Binoculars and sturdy footwear are recommended, particularly if you plan to watch birds or explore the wetter sections.
The Nieuwe Wiel lake was formed by a dike breach in the 18th century and has remained as a permanent water body ever since. This water feature is now a hub for waterfowl and shows how a historical disaster reshaped the landscape for good.
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