The Liesbos is the green lung between Breda and Etten-Leur. The ca. 200 ha Liesbos belongs to the oldest forests of the Southern Netherlands and is the largest old summer oak forest of the Netherlands. Because of its age, the forest has a well-developed spring flora. Consequently, in spring the ground is covered by a carpet of white wood anemones. Other plants and animals also benefit from the age of the forest. For example, the forest is important for bats and woodpeckers that live in the old trees. The Liesbos has a rich history as a hunting forest for the Lord of Breda - from 1403 these were the Counts of Nassau, later the family of Orange Nassau. They used it as a warande and had many of the centuries-old drives constructed. From this time also dates the, now dilapidated, English Garden on the north side of the forest. The Forestry Commission is looking for sponsors to refurbish it.
The area is accessible to hikers. For a bite to eat and a drink you can visit restaurant Boswachter Liesbosch, Eetcafé de Peer or Fritessalon 't Liesbos.
Parking is best in the parking lot on the Leurse baan. The forest is easily accessible by public transportation by taking one of the bus lines between Breda and Etten-Leur and getting off at the Liesbos stop.
