Hoge Veluwe National Park Travel Guide

Discover the beauty of Hoge Veluwe National Park in Gelderland, Netherlands, with our comprehensive tour guide. Find the best things to do, places to visit, food and drinks, accommodations, and more!


Introduction to Hoge Veluwe National Park

Hoge Veluwe National Park is a vast protected area in Gelderland, Netherlands, known for its stunning natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. Covering over 55 square kilometers, it is the largest privately owned nature reserve in the Netherlands, home to forests, sand dunes, heathlands, and unique flora and fauna.

The park is also famous for its art museum, Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses a world-renowned collection of modern art and sculptures set amidst the natural landscape. Whether you’re looking to bike, hike, or simply enjoy the stunning scenery and cultural attractions, Hoge Veluwe National Park is a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.

List of Places to Visit in Hoge Veluwe National Park

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kröller-Müller Museum: This world-class museum features a vast collection of modern art and sculpture, including masterpieces by Van Gogh, Picasso, Mondrian, and other renowned artists. The museum also has a sculpture garden and a stunning outdoor exhibition space.
  • Jachthuis St. Hubertus: This elegant hunting lodge was designed by Dutch architect H.P. Berlage and is now a museum dedicated to its history and architecture. Set within the park, it features beautiful interiors, gardens, and a deer park.
  • Museonder: This underground museum showcases the geology and ecology of Hoge Veluwe in an interactive and educational way, allowing visitors to explore the subterranean world beneath the park.
  • Het Nationale Park De Hoge Veluwe Visitors Center: This modern exhibition space provides a comprehensive introduction to the history, ecology, and cultural significance of Hoge Veluwe National Park, including a 3D film and interactive exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Hoge Veluwe National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Veluwezoom National Park: Located on the eastern edge of Hoge Veluwe, Veluwezoom National Park is another protected area famous for its scenic beauty, hiking trails, and unique flora and fauna.
  • Kroller Muller Bicycle Tours: A fun and unique way to explore the park, these self-guided bike tours take you through the stunning landscape and along well-marked trails, with options for all skill levels.
  • Sand drift: This unique feature of the park is a vast expanse of shifting sand dunes, some as high as 20 meters, that create a stunning desert-like landscape. The sand drift is home to rare plants and animals and is a popular spot for hiking and photography.
  • Bezoekerscentrum Veluwezoom: This modern visitors center provides information on the wildlife, ecology, and history of the Veluwezoom Nature Reserve, including interactive exhibits and guided tours.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hoge Veluwe National Park

Hoge Veluwe National Park is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with miles of well-marked trails that take you through the stunning landscape and past all the major attractions. Some popular routes include:

  • The Blue Route: This 11-kilometer loop takes you past the Kröller-Müller Museum and the St. Hubertus Hunting Lodge, through forests and heathlands, and past scenic viewpoints.
  • The Red Route: A longer and more challenging option, this 19-kilometer loop takes you through some of the most scenic and remote parts of the park, including the sand drift and the Veluwezoom Nature Reserve.
  • The Green Route: This 5-kilometer loop is an easy and family-friendly option that takes you through the central parts of the park, including the Museonder and the visitors center.

Best Things to Do in Hoge Veluwe National Park: Activities and Tours

  • Art Tours: The Kröller-Müller Museum offers a variety of guided tours that take you through its world-renowned collection of art and sculptures, including educational tours for families and school groups.
  • Night Safari: A unique and unforgettable experience, this guided tour takes you through the park at night, where you’ll encounter wildlife such as deer, boars, foxes, and maybe even wolves and badgers.
  • Photography Workshop: Whether you’re a beginner or an expert, Hoge Veluwe National Park is a photographer’s dream, with stunning landscapes, natural scenery, and wildlife. The park offers guided photography workshops throughout the year, covering topics like nature photography, landscape photography, and more.
  • Ranger Tour: Led by experienced park rangers, these guided tours take you into the heart of the park, where you’ll learn about its ecology, wildlife, and cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hoge Veluwe National Park

Day 1: Arrival and set-up at your hotel or guesthouse Day 2: Explore the park’s cultural attractions, including the Kröller-Müller Museum and St. Hubertus Hunting Lodge Day 3: Hike or bike through the park’s most scenic trails and landscapes, including the sand drift and Veluwezoom National Park Day 4: Take a night safari to spot wildlife in the park’s nocturnal landscape Day 5: Attend a photography workshop or ranger tour for a unique and educational experience Day 6: Relax and unwind at one of the park’s lakes or picnic areas Day 7: Departure and checkout

Food and Drink Scene of Hoge Veluwe National Park

Must-Try Dishes

  • Stroopwafels: These famous Dutch waffles are thin and crispy, with a sweet syrup filling. They’re a perfect snack or dessert, enjoyed with coffee or tea.
  • Bitterballen: A popular Dutch snack, these deep-fried meatballs are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, typically served with mustard.
  • Pannenkoeken: Dutch pancakes are thicker and denser than American or British pancakes, with a variety of toppings, such as bacon, cheese, or apple.
  • Hertog Jan Beer: This premium Dutch beer is made with natural ingredients and pure spring water, earning multiple international awards for its quality.

Local Beverages

  • Jenever: This traditional Dutch liquor is similar to gin but often has a smoother and more complex flavor, with a variety of herbs and spices. It’s served chilled or at room temperature and often enjoyed as a digestif.
  • Dutch Coffee: Also known as Café Brulot, this unique coffee drink is brewed with spices, orange peel, and brandy, then set on fire before serving.
  • Chocomel: This iconic Dutch chocolate milk is thick and creamy, with a rich chocolate flavor. It’s a beloved drink by both kids and adults.

Where to Stay in Hoge Veluwe National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hotels

  • Van der Valk Hotel De Cantharel: This 4-star hotel is located just outside the park and features comfortable rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
  • Hotel De Sterrenberg: Also located just outside the park, this 4-star hotel features modern rooms, a wellness center, and a gourmet restaurant.
  • Parkhotel de Wiemsel: Located in nearby Twente, this 4-star hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a spa, and a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Hostels

  • Stayokay Arnhem: This modern and affordable hostel is located in the city of Arnhem, just a short drive or bus ride away from the park. It features private and shared rooms, a bar, and a shared kitchen.
  • Stayokay Apeldoorn: Another option in a nearby city, this hostel is located in a historic building and offers private and shared rooms, a bar, and a shared kitchen.

Guesthouses

  • Bed & Breakfast De Eiken Stek: This cozy and traditional guesthouse is located in the village of Otterlo, just a short distance from the park. It features comfortable rooms, a garden, and a breakfast buffet.
  • De Rozenkamp: Located in the heart of the park, this rustic guesthouse is the perfect spot for nature lovers. It features comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a terrace with stunning views.

What to Buy in Hoge Veluwe National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local honey: Hoge Veluwe National Park is home to numerous beekeepers who produce high-quality honey infused with the park’s flora and fauna flavors.
  • Dutch cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and Hoge Veluwe National Park is no exception. You’ll find a variety of local specialties, such as Gouda, Edam, and Leiden.
  • Wooden clogs: One of the most iconic symbols of Dutch culture, wooden clogs are still handcrafted in many parts of the country, including Gelderland.
  • Art and crafts: The park’s cultural attractions, such as the Kröller-Müller Museum and the Jachthuis St. Hubertus, offer a wide range of art and crafts for sale, such as paintings, sculptures, and textiles.

Local Culture and Customs of Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Netherlands has a rich cultural heritage, and Hoge Veluwe National Park is a perfect example of the country’s unique blend of nature and art. Some other cultural customs to be aware of while visiting the park include:

  • Respect for nature: Hoge Veluwe National Park is an ecologically fragile area, and visitors are expected to respect the natural environment by not leaving waste, not feeding the wildlife, and following park rules and guidelines.
  • Cycling culture: The Netherlands is famous for its cycling culture, and this is especially true in Hoge Veluwe National Park. Biking is one of the most popular activities in the park, and visitors are expected to follow traffic rules and etiquette while riding.
  • Art appreciation: The Kröller-Müller Museum and other cultural attractions in the park celebrate modern art and sculpture, and visitors are encouraged to appreciate the beauty and diversity of these works.

Best Time to Visit Hoge Veluwe National Park

The park is open year-round, and each season offers its own unique advantages and challenges. The summer months (June-August) are the busiest and most crowded, with long days and warm temperatures ideal for outdoor activities. The fall (September-November) offers stunning foliage and fewer crowds, while winter (December-February) is the quietest time, with snow and ice creating a peaceful and intimate atmosphere. The spring (March-May) is the best time to see wildflowers and newborn animals, but be aware of occasional rain and cold temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hoge Veluwe National Park

Do:

  • Follow park rules and guidelines
  • Respect wildlife and natural habitats
  • Bring appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor activities
  • Take advantage of guided tours and educational programs

Don’t:

  • Litter or leave waste behind
  • Feed or disturb the wildlife
  • Stray from marked trails or designated areas
  • Ignore safety warnings and rules

Safety and Health

Safety in Hoge Veluwe National Park

Hoge Veluwe National Park is a generally safe destination for tourists, with low rates of crime and few dangerous animals. However, visitors should be aware of potential hazards, such as:

  • Tick bites: Lyme disease is common in the Netherlands, and ticks are prevalent in Hoge Veluwe National Park. Visitors should wear long clothing, use insect repellent, and check for ticks regularly.
  • Cold weather: In the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snow and ice can make trails and roads slippery. Visitors should bring warm clothing, sturdy shoes, and appropriate gear for outdoor activities.
  • Bicycle accidents: Cycling is a popular way to explore the park, but accidents and collisions can occur. Visitors should follow traffic rules and etiquette, wear helmets, and be aware of other cyclists and pedestrians.

Health in Hoge Veluwe National Park

The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, with modern facilities and experienced medical professionals. Visitors should invest in comprehensive travel insurance, which can cover medical emergencies, lost or stolen items, and trip cancellations. In case of health emergencies, visitors can call 112, the Dutch emergency services number, for help.

Getting to Hoge Veluwe National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hoge Veluwe National Park is located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, approximately 100 km east of Amsterdam. Some transportation options include:

Airports Near Hoge Veluwe National Park

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport: This is the largest airport in the Netherlands and is located approximately 100 km west of the park. It has many international connections.
  • Eindhoven Airport: This smaller airport is located approximately 70 km south of the park and has many low-cost flights to European destinations.

Bus Stations Near Hoge Veluwe National Park

  • Arnhem Central Station: Arnhem is the closest city to the park and has many bus connections to the park’s entrances.
  • Ede-Wageningen Station: This station is located approximately 10 km south of the park and has many bus connections to the park’s entrances.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Car rental is widely available in the Netherlands, and driving is an easy and convenient option for exploring the park and neighboring areas.
  • Bike Rental: Many bike rental shops are located near the park’s entrances, and biking is a popular and eco-friendly way to get around the park and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Hoge Veluwe National Park

The park is relatively compact and easy to navigate, with many well-marked trails and roads. Biking is a popular way to explore the park because of its cycling culture and the park’s extensive network of bike paths. Visitors can rent bikes at the park’s entrances or bring their own. Cars are not allowed inside the park, but there are parking lots and shuttle buses available near the entrances.

Where to Go Next from Hoge Veluwe National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Hoge Veluwe National Park is located in a beautiful and varied region of the Netherlands, with many nearby destinations and excursions worth exploring, including:

  • Arnhem: This charming city is known for its rich history, beautiful parks and gardens, and vibrant cultural scene.
  • Utrecht: One of the oldest and most picturesque cities in the Netherlands, Utrecht is famous for its canals, architecture, and lively nightlife.
  • Apeldoorn: This bustling city is located near the park and offers many attractions, including the Palace Het Loo, a former royal palace turned museum.
  • Het Loo Palace: This stunning royal palace and gardens is located just outside of the park and is a must-visit destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Hoge Veluwe National Park is a beautiful and unique destination in the Netherlands, with a rich natural and cultural history that’s worth exploring. Whether you’re interested in art, nature, or outdoor activities, the park has something for everyone. Follow our comprehensive tour guide to discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local experiences that Hoge Veluwe National Park has to offer.

Cafe Cafe Stumps in the desert Stumps in the desert Trees in the desert Trees in the desert The ''Witte Fietsen'' (White Bikes) can be found throughout the park, almost littering the drop-off and pick-up areas for said bikes. These bikes may not be the highest quality available, but they are more than useful when it comes to exploring the park. The ''Witte Fietsen'' (White Bikes) can be found throughout the park, almost littering the drop-off and pick-up areas for said bikes. These bikes may not be the highest quality available, but they are more than useful when it comes to exploring the park. Wildlife runs rampant in Hoge Veluwe Wildlife runs rampant in Hoge Veluwe The park is beautiful the year round. Fall gives an overwhelming array of colours to the forested areas, while proper winters cover the entire park in a thick undisturbed layer of snow. The park is beautiful the year round. Fall gives an overwhelming array of colours to the forested areas, while proper winters cover the entire park in a thick undisturbed layer of snow.