When it comes to things to do in autumn in the Netherlands, mushroom spotting is always at the top of my list. Bergerbos, close to Bergen, is one of my favourite places for a forest walk during this season. The forest transforms and comes alive with golden leaves, soft moss, and, if you look closely, an amazing variety of mushrooms.
I’ve spotted many beautiful mushrooms here, from tiny fungi hiding in the undergrowth to the iconic Fly agaric (Amanita muscaria) bright red under the trees. Every walk feels like a treasure hunt: you never know what you’ll discover, but the thrill of looking makes it special. Bergerbos is one of those places where I return year after year, knowing I’ll see familiar trees and maybe find a new mushroom surprise.
Forest Walks in Bergerbos
Bergerbos is a beautiful woodland with old trees, dune-like landscapes, and winding paths. It’s a great place not only for mushroom spotting but also for a refreshing forest walk at any time of the year. In autumn, the mix of falling leaves, earthy scents, and the occasional ray of light filtering through the branches creates a magical atmosphere.
Walking here is also easy to combine with other activities, like a stop in the charming Bergen afterwards for a warm drink, or extend your walk into the nearby dunes for a longer hike (you can go all the way to Bergen aan Zee). It’s a perfect dagje weg (day trip) in autumn.
Mushroom Spotting Tips
- When to go: Mushrooms love moist weather. Head out after a rainy day or in the morning mist for the best chance of spotting them.
- Where to look: Check mossy tree bases, fallen logs, and shady corners of the forest floor.
- Bring a camera: Even if you don’t know the species, photographing mushrooms is half the fun.
- Don’t pick: Foraging is not allowed in Bergerbos (or most places in the Netherlands). Admire the mushrooms where they grow and leave them for the next walker to enjoy. To be honest, there aren’t many mushrooms anyway, not enough for a good foraging.
Some of the mushrooms I’ve spotted here:
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