Lochem Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and natural attractions of Lochem with the help of our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and much more.


Introduction to Lochem

Lochem is a beautiful city located in the Achterhoek region of Gelderland in Eastern Netherlands. It is a perfect destination for travelers who want to get away from the hustle and bustle of big cities and enjoy a peaceful vacation amidst nature. Lochem is known for its stunning natural landscapes, charming villages, and rich culture.

List of Places to Visit in Lochem

Lochem has an abundance of cultural and natural attractions that are definitely worth exploring. Below is a list of some of the most interesting places to visit in Lochem.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Stadsmuseum – A museum that showcases the history of Lochem, particularly its rich textile industry heritage.
  • De Groene Jager – An old-fashioned pub that has been serving the community since the 17th century.
  • Huize Ruurlo – A beautiful medieval castle that is now home to a museum featuring art from the De Stijl movement.
  • Berkenhofs tropical zoo – Home to exotic creatures and plants from around the world, this zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers.

Natural Attractions of Lochem: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • De Zwiepse Molen – A picturesque windmill and a popular spot for hiking and biking.
  • Barchemse Berg and Bergvlietse Forest – These nature reserves are perfect for nature enthusiasts who want to experience the wilderness of Lochem.
  • Kelhoutmolen – A beautiful lake where visitors can enjoy fishing, swimming, or renting a boat.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lochem

Lochem is an excellent destination for cycling and hiking enthusiasts. The area features a large network of cycling and hiking trails, which provide an opportunity to explore the stunning countryside, charming villages, and unique natural landmarks. Some popular hiking and biking routes include:

  • Achterhoekse Fiets-4daagse – A four-day biking event that takes you across the beautiful landscapes of Gelderland and Overijssel.
  • Barchemse Route – A cycling route that takes you through the beautiful Bergvlietse Forest and several picturesque villages.
  • Lochemse Berg Route – A scenic biking tour that takes you through the rolling hills and beautiful countryside of Lochem.

Best Things to Do in Lochem: Activities and Tours

Lochem offers diverse activities and tours that are perfect for travelers of all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do in Lochem:

  • Lochemse Golf Club – A beautiful golf course surrounded by stunning natural scenery that offers a challenging game for golf enthusiasts.
  • Boating – Rent a boat and explore the beautiful Berkel River that flows through Lochem.
  • Horseback Riding – Take a horse riding lesson or go on a guided tour through scenic forests and countryside.
  • Farm Visits – Visit a local farm to learn about traditional Dutch farming practices and sample locally produced cheese and wine.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lochem

For a more extended stay in Lochem, here is a week-long itinerary that highlights the best of what the city has to offer:

  • Day 1: Explore the history and culture of Lochem by visiting Stadsmuseum and Huize Ruurlo.
  • Day 2: Go hiking or biking through the scenic routes of Barchemse Berg and Bergvlietse Forest.
  • Day 3: Enjoy the natural landscapes of Lochem by visiting De Zwiepse Molen and Kelhoutmolen.
  • Day 4: Take a guided tour of the Berkenhofs Tropical Zoo.
  • Day 5: Play a round of golf or go horseback riding.
  • Day 6: Rent a boat and explore the Berkel River.
  • Day 7: Explore the city’s food and drink scene, sample local dishes, and shop for souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Lochem

Lochem offers a unique culinary experience that combines traditional Dutch cuisine with international flavors. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Lochem:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stamppot – A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, served with smoked sausage.
  • Kroket – A croquette filled with ragout and deep-fried.
  • Kibbeling – Deep-fried pieces of cod, served with fries and dipping sauces.
  • Poffertjes – Small pancakes topped with powdered sugar and served with butter and syrup.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever – A traditional Dutch gin that is made from juniper berries.
  • Korenwijn – A Dutch distilled spirit made from malt wine.
  • Kilsdonkse Molenbier – A locally brewed beer made from organic ingredients.

Where to Stay in Lochem: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Lochem offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to various budgets and preferences. Some of the most popular hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Lochem include:

  • Hampshire Hotel – De Lochemse Berg – A luxury hotel set in the beautiful countryside that offers excellent amenities and facilities.
  • Fletcher Hotel – Restaurant Paasberg – A cozy hotel located at the edge of Lochem that features an on-site restaurant and bar.
  • Stayokay Hostel Gorssel – A budget-friendly hostel located on the banks of the Berkel River.
  • Bed and Breakfast ‘t Opkikkertje – A charming guesthouse that offers comfortable accommodations and a cozy ambiance.

What to Buy in Lochem: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Lochem offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect to bring home as a reminder of your trip. Some popular items to consider include:

  • Local Cheese and Wine – Check out the local farmers’ markets for fresh and locally produced cheese and wine.
  • Crafts and Handmade Products – Lochem is home to several artisan studios and shops that offer a range of handmade products, including jewelry, ceramics, and textiles.
  • Bicycle Accessories – The Netherlands is well-known for its cycling culture, so why not bring home a bicycle saddle or other cycling accessories as a souvenir?

Local Culture and Customs of Lochem

The culture and customs of Lochem reflect the rural Dutch way of life, and the residents take pride in their traditions and heritage. Some of the unique customs and traditions of Lochem include:

  • Carnival – An annual festival celebrated in February that features colorful parades and parties.
  • Sinterklaas – A traditional Dutch celebration that takes place on December 5th, where children receive gifts from Sinterklaas (Saint Nicholas).
  • Koninginnedag – Celebrated on April 30th, this is the Dutch equivalent of Queen’s Day. It is a national holiday and a time for celebrating the Dutch royal family.

Best Time to Visit Lochem

The best time to visit Lochem is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is pleasant, and the countryside is in full bloom. However, Lochem is beautiful all year round, and each season has its unique charm.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lochem

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Rent a bike and explore the countryside.
  • Try the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public places.
  • Don’t litter.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lochem

Lochem is generally safe, and crime rates are low. However, it is always best to take precautions and stay vigilant, particularly in crowded areas and tourist hotspots.

Health in Lochem

It is advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance when traveling to Lochem. Medical facilities and services are available in the city.

Getting to Lochem: Transportation Options and Logistics

Lochem is easily accessible by public transportation and offers excellent connectivity to other parts of the Netherlands.

Airports Near Lochem

The nearest major airports to Lochem are:

  • Amsterdam Airport Schiphol – Located 130 km from Lochem.
  • Düsseldorf International Airport – Located 150 km from Lochem.

Bus Stations Near Lochem

  • Lochem Bus Station
  • Zutphen Bus Station

Other Options

  • Train – Lochem has its train station, which provides regular services to several cities in the Netherlands.

How to Get Around in Lochem

Lochem is a small city, and it is easy to explore on foot or by bike. There are several bike rental shops in the city where visitors can rent a bike for a day or longer.

Where to Go Next from Lochem: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Lochem is an excellent base for exploring other nearby towns and cities, such as:

  • Zutphen – A charming medieval town located a few kilometers from Lochem.
  • Arnhem – A vibrant city that is home to several museums, parks, and restaurants.
  • Nijmegen – One of the oldest cities in the Netherlands and a city with a rich history worth exploring

Conclusion

Lochem is a charming city located in the heart of the Dutch countryside that offers a unique and authentic Dutch experience. It is an ideal destination for travelers who enjoy exploring natural landscapes, experiencing local culture, and indulging in traditional Dutch cuisine. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Lochem is a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.

Monumental buildings in the Bierstraat Monumental buildings in the Bierstraat Bridge over the Twentekanaal. Bridge over the Twentekanaal. The river Berkel at the Graaf Ottoweg The river Berkel at the Graaf Ottoweg Huis Verwolde with the lake behind it Huis Verwolde with the lake behind it