In winter the forest is open. You can see far between the bare trunks. The ground crunches with frost and your breath hangs like a small cloud.
This is exactly when you lose your way: paths look alike and the sun is low. A compass helps you stay calm and choose your own route. You learn to read the landscape: where water flows, where the wind comes from, which side the moss grows on.
Try this:
- Pick a point 1 km away on the map.
- Take the bearing with your compass and walk that line.
- Notice what changes along the way: from pine forest to heath, from dry to wet.
Many nature areas of Staatsbosbeheer have marked routes and areas where you may roam freely. Do follow the rules of each area.
A simple compass for your walks: Compass.
Read more on the nature blog or visit the shop.