Rivierenland Travel Guide

Explore the wonders of Rivierenland with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the natural beauty, cultural landmarks, and more that this region has to offer.


Introduction to Rivierenland

Located in the province of Gelderland in the Eastern Netherlands, Rivierenland is a region of stunning natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture. The region gets its name from its location between the rivers Waal and Linge, which provide breathtaking backdrops for adventures and excursions. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore the must-visit places, culture, outdoor activities, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and more in Rivierenland.

List of Places to Visit in Rivierenland

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum Het Stadskasteel - This museum is located in the charming town of Zaltbommel and showcases the history and culture of the town and its surroundings.
  • Flipje en Streekmuseum - This unique museum in Tiel celebrates the history and folklore of the region through interactive exhibits and displays.
  • Slot Loevestein - This stunning castle-turned-museum dates back to the 14th century and was once a notorious prison. Visitors can explore its history, architecture, and the beautiful surrounding landscape.

Natural Attractions of Rivierenland: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • De Biesbosch National Park - A sprawling nature reserve with wetlands, reed beds, and open waterways, De Biesbosch is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.
  • Uiterwaarden Betuwe - Situated along the Waal river, this area features beautiful floodplains, magnificent sunsets, and a variety of flora and fauna.
  • Bommelerwaard - This river island offers visitors a serene escape and features a mix of picturesque villages, scenic landscapes, and historical landmarks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Rivierenland

  • Mills and Rivers Route - As the name suggests, this route takes you through the picturesque landscape of windmills, rivers, and historic towns of Rivierenland.
  • Lingeroute cycling and walking tour - This route takes you along the Linge river from Geldermalsen, through charming villages, and beautiful rural landscapes.
  • Ooij & Duffelt Route - This route takes you through the lush forests and meadows of the Gelderse Poort nature reserve and offers stunning views of the Waal river.

Best Things to Do in Rivierenland: Activities and Tours

  • Gelderland Wine Route - This self-guided tour takes you through the vineyards and wineries of Gelderland, including the Betuwe, Veluwe, and Achterhoek regions.
  • River Cruise - Experience the beauty of Rivierenland from the comfort of a boat or yacht. There are many tours available that offer unique views of the rivers, castles, and towns.
  • Cherry Picking - The Betuwe region is known for its cherry orchards, and in the summer months, visitors can pick their own fresh and delicious cherries.

Week-Long Itinerary for Rivierenland

Day Activity
1 Explore the charming town of Zaltbommel and visit the Museum Het Stadskasteel
2 Take a river cruise and explore the stunning castles along the Waal river
3 Visit the Flipje en Streekmuseum in Tiel and enjoy a cherry picking tour
4 Spend the day hiking or cycling along the Lingeroute
5 Visit the historic Slot Loevestein and discover its rich history
6 Explore the beautiful nature reserve of De Biesbosch National Park
7 Relax and take in the views of the Uiterwaarden Betuwe and Bommelerwaard regions

Food and Drink Scene of Rivierenland

Must-Try Dishes

  • Streekgerechten Tielse Kermiskoekjes - These traditional cookies from Tiel are made with a blend of spices and honey and are a local favorite.
  • Appelstroop - A type of Dutch apple syrup that is popular throughout the region. It is often served on bread or pancakes.
  • Betuwse fruitstroop - This fruity syrup is made from a variety of fruits and has a unique flavor that is perfect for adding to desserts or as a topping for ice cream.

Local Beverages

  • Gelderse Wijn - This wine is made in the Gelderland region and is known for its fruity and robust flavors.
  • Jenever - A traditional Dutch gin that is often enjoyed with a dash of lemon or lime.
  • Rivierenland Beer - Craft breweries are popping up throughout the region, and the variety of local beers is increasing.

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

  • Hotel Van der Valk Zaltbommel - This hotel is centrally located in Zaltbommel and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant with regional cuisine.
  • Bed & Breakfast Bommelstein - This charming B&B is located in a historic building in the heart of Zaltbommel and offers cozy rooms with lovely views.
  • Stadsherberg Hotel Cafe Biblo - Located in Tiel, this historic hotel offers guests a comfortable stay and easy access to local attractions and activities.

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

  • Betuws fruit - The region is famous for its fruit, including cherries, pears, and apples. Visitors should try to sample some fresh and local fruits and take some home as souvenirs.
  • Delft Blue Souvenirs - This classic Dutch blue-and-white pottery style is popular throughout the region and makes for lovely souvenirs to take home.
  • Streekproducten - These locally-produced food products include jams, cheeses, and other regional specialties, and are perfect to share with loved ones back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Rivierenland

Rivierenland is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who often greet visitors with a smile. The region has a rich heritage and tradition of fruit agriculture, and locals are proud of their heritage. Visitors should try to immerse themselves in local culture and customs by attending local festivals such as the Tiel Fruitcorso and the Bommel Beer Fest.

Best Time to Visit Rivierenland

The best time to visit Rivierenland is during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall when the weather is mild, and crowds are smaller than in summer. However, the region is lovely throughout the year, with each season bringing its own unique charm and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Rivierenland

Do:

  • Try the local food and drink specialties
  • Spend time exploring the region’s charming towns and villages
  • Take advantage of the stunning natural scenery by going for a hike or bike ride
  • Attend local festivals and cultural events
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Litter
  • Disrespect wildlife
  • Ignore safety warnings in natural parks or along the rivers

Safety and Health

Safety in Rivierenland

Rivierenland is a relatively safe region with a low crime rate. Visitors should exercise general safety precautions, such as being aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables unattended.

Health in Rivierenland

The Netherlands has a high standard of healthcare, and emergency services are available throughout the region. Visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before visiting Rivierenland, especially if they plan on taking part in adventurous activities.

Getting to Rivierenland: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors to Rivierenland can easily arrive by train, bus, or car. The closest airports are Amsterdam Schiphol, Eindhoven, and Rotterdam. From the airport, visitors can take a train or bus to the region. There are many bus lines, and regional train lines connecting the towns and villages of Rivierenland.

Airports Near Rivierenland

  • Amsterdam Schiphol Airport
  • Eindhoven Airport
  • Rotterdam The Hague Airport

Bus Stations Near Rivierenland

  • Tiel Bus Station
  • Geldermalsen Bus Station
  • Zaltbommel Bus Station

Other Options

Visitors can also arrive by bike thanks to the Netherlands well-known biking infrastructure. There are dedicated bike trails throughout the region, including the Landelijke Fietsroute and the LF3 Hanzeroute.

How to Get Around in Rivierenland

Public transportation options in the region include trains, buses, and ferries, while biking is also a popular option with designated cycling paths. Many attractions and destinations are easily accessible through walking in towns or hiking in natural parks. Rental cars are also available.

Where to Go Next from Rivierenland: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Utrecht - This charming city is a quick train ride from Rivierenland and is known for its stunning architecture, canals, and fantastic shopping.
  • Den Bosch - This charming city with a rich history and is famous for its beautiful architecture and restaurants with delicious traditional Brabantian cuisine.
  • De Hoge Veluwe National Park - This stunning nature reserve in the Gelderland province is home to a diverse range of wildlife and features a mix of landscapes, including forests and sand dune fields.

Conclusion

Rivierenland offers travelers a unique blend of natural beauty, history, and culture. Visitors can enjoy picturesque landscapes, incredible museums, quaint towns, and delicious food and drink. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan the ultimate trip to Rivierenland and explore all this stunning region has to offer.

Linge between Rumpt and Beesd. Linge between Rumpt and Beesd. Tiel Railway Station Tiel Railway Station Soelen castle, located near Tiel Soelen castle, located near Tiel