De Mossel nature reserve
Nature reserve De Mossel takes its name from the nearby centuries-old farm De Mossel, which used to serve as an inn. The area originally consisted of a small stretch of grassland and a forgotten grove called the Mosselbosje. The grassland was too wet for agricultural production and the grove consisted of ash trees that died of ash dieback. A unique collaboration between hotel Van der Valk and the Municipality of Leusden will allow this piece of nature to develop into a nature reserve in the coming years.
By cutting down the diseased Mossel grove and removing the fertile topsoil, the...
Nature reserve De Mossel takes its name from the nearby centuries-old farm De Mossel, which used to serve as an inn. The area originally consisted of a small stretch of grassland and a forgotten grove called the Mosselbosje. The grassland was too wet for agricultural production and the grove consisted of ash trees that died of ash dieback. A unique collaboration between hotel Van der Valk and the Municipality of Leusden will allow this piece of nature to develop into a nature reserve in the coming years.
Cutting down the diseased Mossel grove and excavating the fertile topsoil has created an optimal environment for unusual plants. The site is now calcareous due to seepage, nutrient-poor due to excavation of the humus layer and even wetter due to lowering. The area is optimal for rare plants such as orchids, fat leaf and other special types of plants that used to occur in Gelderse Valley. Those special plants attract special insects, which benefit various birds.
The Mosselpad is a fun walking route for hotel guests and employees of the nearby De Horst business park. After a long walk in the area, it is great to unwind and enjoy a tasty lunch, a sumptuous dinner, a refreshing drink or a relaxing overnight stay at Van der Valk Hotel Leusden-Amersfoort.