Borkeld

The Borkeld is a nature reserve in the Hof van Twente municipality in the east of the Netherlands, a landscape of heath, juniper bushes and scattered woodland that is popular with walkers and cyclists. The area is part of the rural countryside around Delden and the Twickel estate, and it gives a good picture of the open, sandy landscapes that used to cover much of the east of the country before reclamation, forestry and farming changed it. For visitors who want a quiet day outdoors, it is a rewarding place.

The heathland is the main feature. Heath is a human-made landscape, formed over centuries when farmers cleared the original forest and grazed sheep on the poor, sandy soils. The heather that grows on it turns the land purple in late summer, usually in August and early September, and it provides a habitat for specialised plants, insects and birds. In many nature reserves, the heath is kept open by grazing, cutting and removing young trees, since otherwise it would turn into woodland.

Juniper is another characteristic plant. The bushes grow slowly, taking on twisted shapes with age, and they have a dark, resinous scent. They were once widespread on the sandy heaths, and their berries were used to flavour food and drink, including gin, whose name derives from the Dutch word for juniper. Today they are less common, and the stands that survive are valued by nature conservationists. Look for the old, gnarled specimens among the heather.

The network of paths is well marked, with options for short strolls and longer circuits, and the terrain is gently rolling. Cyclists can use the roads and tracks that cross the area, and the flat countryside around is well suited to touring. Wildlife includes birds of the heath and woodland, such as woodlarks and stonechats, as well as deer, and with luck you may see roe deer at dawn or dusk.

The Borkeld lies close to other sights in the Hof van Twente, including Twickel Castle, Kasteel Weldam, the old church of Delden and the Zoutmuseum, which makes it easy to combine nature with culture. It suits walkers, cyclists and families. Wear sturdy shoes, keep dogs on leads, stay on the paths and take your litter with you.