10 Cozy Winter Outings in the Brabantse Kempen
- Marjolein Hermens
- Oct 22, 2025
- 3 min read
The days grow shorter, the forest around the cabin becomes still, and that’s exactly when there’s so much to enjoy in the Brabantse Kempen. From twinkling lights to charming Christmas markets, from midwinter walks to magic in the Efteling these are ten atmospheric winter outings starting from The Kempen Forest Cabin in the south of Holland.
Kaatsheuvel – 30 minutes drive
A true Dutch classic that can’t be missed: the Winter Efteling. Millions of lights, crackling fire pits and creamy hot chocolate create a magical day out for young and old. From mid-November the entire park transforms into a sparkling winter wonderland.
Hilvarenbeek – 10 minutes drive
Even in winter, Beekse Bergen is full of adventure. Go on safari, discover the Light Safari, and warm up by the campfire while the rangers provide cosy winter entertainment.
12 December 2025 – 6 January 2026 | Vrijthof Hilvarenbeek
A glittering light experience right in the centre of Hilvarenbeek. Stroll past illuminated artworks, Christmas decorations and gentle festive music on the Vrijthof square. Perfect for an evening walk after dinner.
4. Elckerlyc Christmas Market
20 December 2025 | Hilvarenbeek
The annual Christmas market at cultural centre Elckerlyc is always warm and welcoming: handmade gifts, winter treats and live music. Combine it with a stroll through the village for a perfect festive day out in Holland.
23 November 2025
The start of the winter season in the region! The Winter Fair in Netersel is a charming market filled with local products, delicacies and Christmas decorations — ideal for getting into the holiday spirit in the Netherlands.
15 December 2025 | Natuurbegraafplaats de Utrecht | Free entry
A special one-kilometre walk through the forest, lit by lanterns and followed by a warm drink. Peaceful, meaningful and truly Brabant — perfect for anyone seeking a quiet winter moment in nature.
22 December 2025 | Sint Petrus Church Hilvarenbeek | Free entry
A beautiful Christmas concert with English carols in the centuries-old St. Petrus Church. The perfect way to begin the festive season in an enchanting Dutch setting.
22 December 2025 | CC Elckerlyc Hilvarenbeek
For lovers of classical music: a festive concert featuring orchestra, choir and warm winter sounds. Tickets include coffee or tea during the interval.
9. Winter Walks through Forest and Heathland
Even without events, nature here is magical. From The Kempen Forest Cabin you can walk straight into the woods. The Neterselse Heide and Cartierheide are breathtaking in winter, often dusted with frost and wrapped in peaceful silence.
10. Winter Walk and Drinks at Herberg In den Bockenreyder
Landgoed de Utrecht – 15 minutes drive
End your winter day with a walk through the De Utrecht Estate and a drink by the open fire at this beloved inn. Their hot chocolate with whipped cream tastes best after a refreshing forest walk in Holland.
Tip: Stay for a Winter Getaway
Our Kempen Forest Cabin is extra cosy in winter with a covered veranda for sheltered sitting, an infrared sauna to warm up, and a peaceful forest all around. Book a midweek or weekend and discover how magical the Kempen can be in winter.
Want to experience the winter atmosphere of the Kempen yourself? Visit our Christmas page for all the details.
Written by The Kempen Forest Cabin (Boshuisje de Kempen) – a charming holiday home in the Brabant Kempen (Netherlands)
