Hilvarenbeek

Hilvarenbeek is a municipality and a town in the province of North Brabant, in the south of the Netherlands. It is located near the border with Belgium. The municipality had a population of approximately 17,000 people as of 2020.

The town of Hilvarenbeek is situated in the De Peel region, a large bog area that was once used for peat extraction. The name "Hilvarenbeek" is derived from the words "hilweg," meaning "high way," and "varing," an old word for "beech tree." This refers to the fact that the road from Tilburg to Radeland ran through a beech forest in the area.

The municipality of Hilvarenbeek covers an area of 55.74 square kilometers. The town is surrounded by small villages and farmland. In terms of economy, the region is largely based on agriculture and horticulture, with several large companies operating in the area.

Historically, Hilvarenbeek has been known for its textile industry. The area was once home to many small-scale fabric manufacturers that produced traditional Dutch cloth. However, this industry has declined significantly since the 20th century. Today, the town has a thriving community with a range of cultural and social activities.

Recreational activities are also popular in Hilvarenbeek, with many residents and visitors enjoying outdoor pursuits such as cycling, hiking, and nature watching. The municipality is home to several nature reserves and conservation areas, protecting the unique peat bog ecosystem.