Sheepfold Hoog Buurlo - Radio Kootwijk

The Hoog Buurlose heath on the Veluwe is an ancient area where a large flock of heath sheep and land goats together with the shepherd and his dogs contribute to nature management. Hoog Buurlo, a wooded area in the heart of the Veluwe, has two sheep pens where the sheep stay at night. The sheep herd is deliberately used to manage the heathland: they graze in specific spots to reduce unwanted grasses, such as Pipeweed. This gives the heather a chance to flower or return. Sometimes the grass is also cut or controlled burning, in combination with the sheep's grazing, to maintain the desired balance.

The sheep pen, in use since the 9th century, is a silent witness to this age-old tradition. The sheep's daily return to the pen is part of the rhythm of the moors, and the area therefore exudes an almost timeless atmosphere. Visitors can visit the sheepfold every day and enjoy this special, historic place in the middle of the Veluwe nature.