You can enter Stuttebosch forest opposite the historic Bekhofschans fort on the bank of the River Linde (or Lende) which flows along the southeast edge of the village of Oldeberkoop. The forest is a mixture of young and old broadleaf and conifer trees with many different types of ferns growing on the forest floor. There is also nutrient-poor grassland nearby. The boulder clay prevents rainwater from running off too quickly. This creates the right conditions for plants such as the heath spotted-orchid, the broad-leaved marsh orchid, the sundew, the common lousewort, the marsh thistle and meadow thistle and makes the area very special. The forest, which is also home to a variety of wildlife and insects, is managed by Staatsbosbeheer, the national forestry organisation that oversees the Netherlands’ green heritage. You can park near the Bekhofschans fort and come and marvel at this striking confluence of natural beauty and cultural history.
