Veluwe Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Veluwe with our travel guide. Plan your trip now!


Veluwe is a stunning natural and cultural region in Eastern Netherlands. With its sprawling forests, rolling hills, charming towns, and rich history, it is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the Netherlands. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll introduce you to all the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Veluwe.

Introduction to Veluwe

Veluwe is a vast region that covers a large part of Gelderland in the Eastern Netherlands. It spans over 1,000 square kilometers and is home to diverse landscapes, including dense forests, heathlands, sand dunes, and picturesque hills. The region boasts rich biodiversity, with hundreds of plant and animal species, including the famous red deer and wild boar. Veluwe is also rich in history, with prehistoric sites, centuries-old castles, and museums that showcase the region’s culture and heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Veluwe

Whether you’re interested in nature, history, or culture, Veluwe has plenty of places to explore. Here’s a list of some of the must-visit places in Veluwe:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Kröller-Müller Museum: This art museum is home to a vast collection of modern art, including works by Van Gogh.
  2. Paleis Het Loo: A grand palace that showcases the life of the Dutch royal family.
  3. Airborne Museum Hartenstein: A museum dedicated to the Battle of Arnhem during WWII.
  4. Castle Cannenburch: A 16th-century castle that houses a museum and beautiful gardens.

Natural Attractions of Veluwe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Hoge Veluwe National Park: A vast national park that’s home to diverse wildlife, forests, and sand dunes.
  2. Deelerwoud: A serene forest area that’s perfect for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting.
  3. Posbank: A stunning hilltop lookout that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  4. Veluwezoom National Park: One of the oldest national parks in the Netherlands, Veluwezoom is home to picturesque hills, heather fields, and forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Veluwe

Veluwe is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With miles of hiking and biking trails that traverse diverse landscapes, you can explore the region’s beauty at your own pace. Here are some of the best routes to try:

  1. Veluwezoom National Park: The Rheden route is a 7-kilometer circular trail that takes you through the park’s scenic hills and forests.
  2. Hoge Veluwe National Park: The Purple Route is a 16-kilometer biking trail that takes you through the park’s diverse landscapes.
  3. Deelerwoud: The circular Deelerwoud Trail is a 12-kilometer hiking trail that takes you through forests and heathlands.

Best Things to Do in Veluwe: Activities and Tours

Veluwe offers a range of activities and tours that cater to all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best things to do:

  1. Wildlife Safari: Join a safari tour and spot wildlife such as red deer, wild boar, and foxes.
  2. Hot Air Balloon Ride: See Veluwe’s stunning landscapes from above on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise.
  3. Canoeing/Kayaking: Paddle along the Veluwe’s peaceful waterways and take in the serene natural views.
  4. Visit Local Breweries: Veluwe is home to several breweries that offer tours and tastings.

Week-Long Itinerary for Veluwe

A week in Veluwe will allow you to explore the region’s best attractions and immerse yourself in its natural and cultural beauty. Here’s a sample itinerary:

Day 1-2: Arrive in Veluwe and explore the Hoge Veluwe National Park and the Kröller-Müller Museum.

Day 3: Visit the charming town of Apeldoorn and the grand Paleis Het Loo.

Day 4: Take a wildlife safari in De Hoge Veluwe and explore the Deelerwoud forest area.

Day 5: Explore the scenic Posbank lookout and visit the Airborne Museum in Hartenstein.

Day 6-7: Visit the picturesque town of Hattem and explore Castle Cannenburch.

Food and Drink Scene of Veluwe

Veluwe’s food and drink scene are a unique reflection of the region’s rich agricultural heritage. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, such as kale and carrots.
  2. Wild Game: Veluwe is a haven for hunters, and you can taste delicious game dishes made from the region’s wild animals, such as wild boar and deer.
  3. Pannenkoeken: Dutch-style pancakes made with buckwheat flour and served with savory or sweet toppings.

Local Beverages

  1. Jenever: A traditional Dutch gin-like drink made from juniper berries and malt wine.
  2. Beer: Veluwe is home to several breweries that produce delicious craft beers.
  3. Wine: Veluwe’s vineyards produce a range of wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir.

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

Veluwe offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  1. Hotel De Sterrenberg: A luxury hotel located in a peaceful forest area near the Hoge Veluwe National Park.
  2. Stayokay Hostel Arnhem: A budget-friendly hostel located in a historic building in Arnhem.
  3. B&B De Rozenkamp: A charming guesthouse located in the picturesque town of Epe.

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

Veluwe is home to many unique products and souvenirs that make for excellent gifts and keepsakes. Here are a few ideas:

  1. Gouda Cheese: Veluwe’s nearby city Gouda is famous for its delicious cheese, and you’ll find several cheese shops that offer a range of flavors and varieties.
  2. Local Beer and Wine: Bring home a taste of Veluwe’s beer and wine culture by picking up a bottle from a local brewery or vineyard.
  3. Local Crafts: Veluwe is home to many skilled craftsmen who produce unique products such as wooden clogs, hand-painted pottery, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of Veluwe

Veluwe’s culture and customs are heavily influenced by its natural surroundings and agricultural heritage. Some unique local traditions include:

  1. Hunting: Hunting is a popular pastime in Veluwe, and many farmers and landowners lease their land for hunting purposes.
  2. Local Festivals: Veluwe hosts several festivals throughout the year, such as the Apeldoorn fair and the Hoge Veluwe National Park’s annual art market.
  3. Biking Culture: Veluwe is home to miles of biking trails and is a popular destination for cyclists.

Best Time to Visit Veluwe

Veluwe is a year-round destination with each season offering its unique charm. However, the best time to visit Veluwe is between April and October when the weather is mild, and the natural landscapes are at their best.

Do’s and Don’ts of Veluwe

When visiting Veluwe, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Do:

  1. Respect nature and wildlife.
  2. Try local beer and wine.
  3. Explore the biking trails and scenic viewpoints.

Don’t:

  1. Leave trash in the nature reserves.
  2. Disturb wildlife by feeding them or getting too close.
  3. Ignore the signs and rules of the national parks.

Safety and Health

Veluwe is generally a safe and healthy destination, but it’s always good to be prepared. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Veluwe

  1. Watch out for bicycles and stay on designated paths.
  2. Be aware of ticks during the summer months and wear proper clothing to protect against them.
  3. Be careful when walking or biking in remote areas.

Health in Veluwe

  1. Stay hydrated during hot weather.
  2. Use sunscreen to protect against sunburn.
  3. Check if any vaccinations are needed before traveling to the Netherlands.

Getting to Veluwe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Veluwe is easily accessible from major cities in the Netherlands. Here are some transportation options:

Airports Near Veluwe

  1. Schiphol Airport: located in Amsterdam, about 70km from Veluwe.
  2. Rotterdam-The Hague Airport: located in south Holland, about 125km from Veluwe.

Bus Stations Near Veluwe

  1. Arnhem Bus Station: Regular buses from Arnhem to Veluwe.
  2. Ede-Wageningen Bus Station: Regular buses from Ede to Veluwe.

Other Options

  1. Train: From Amsterdam, you can take a train to Ede-Wageningen and then take a local bus to Veluwe.
  2. Car rental: Renting a car is an excellent option if you wish to explore the region at your leisure.

How to Get Around in Veluwe

Veluwe’s vast and diverse landscapes make it an excellent destination to explore on foot, bike, or car. Several bike rental companies and car rental services are available in the region. Public transport is also available, with regular bus services connecting the major towns and villages.

Where to Go Next from Veluwe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Veluwe’s central location makes it an excellent base to explore nearby destinations in the Netherlands. Here are some ideas:

  1. Utrecht: A charming medieval city known for its beautiful canals and lively nightlife.
  2. Amsterdam: The vibrant capital city of the Netherlands, known for its museums, historic landmarks, and coffee shops.
  3. The Hague: A city located on the North Sea coast, known for its beaches, monuments, and diplomatic history.
  4. Rotterdam: A modern city known for its contemporary architecture, museums, and vibrant cultural scene.

Conclusion

Veluwe is a unique and stunning destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in nature, culture, or adventure, Veluwe provides plentiful opportunities to explore and discover. Use this travel guide to plan your vacation and discover everything that Veluwe has to offer.

De '''Planken Wambuis''', a forest and nature reserve near Ede. De '''Planken Wambuis''', a forest and nature reserve near Ede. If you time your travelling right, you might be able to incorporate a heritage rail ride in your travel. Shown is the interchange between national rail (left) and the VSM heritage service (right) at Dieren. If you time your travelling right, you might be able to incorporate a heritage rail ride in your travel. Shown is the interchange between national rail (left) and the VSM heritage service (right) at Dieren. Even if you don't own a car or don't wish to use buses, the Veluwe is navigable on foot or by bike, though distances between towns are considerably larger than elsewhere in the Netherlands. Depicted is a historical ANWB interchange marker on the Posbank. Even if you don't own a car or don't wish to use buses, the Veluwe is navigable on foot or by bike, though distances between towns are considerably larger than elsewhere in the Netherlands. Depicted is a historical ANWB interchange marker on the Posbank. The gardens belonging to the Het Loo Palace rivalled those of Versailles, with the fountains at Het Loo being specifically built to rise higher than those in France. The gardens belonging to the Het Loo Palace rivalled those of Versailles, with the fountains at Het Loo being specifically built to rise higher than those in France. In general, wild animals are able to live their lives quite comfortably in nature. It's only to control the wild populations that some may be shot. In general, wild animals are able to live their lives quite comfortably in nature. It's only to control the wild populations that some may be shot. Though beautiful, don't interact with wild young animals. Where there's a young, there's also a protective parent nearby that won't hesitate to defend their young. Admire wildlife from an appropriate distance instead and bring binoculars if you want to see them up close. Though beautiful, don't interact with wild young animals. Where there's a young, there's also a protective parent nearby that won't hesitate to defend their young. Admire wildlife from an appropriate distance instead and bring binoculars if you want to see them up close.


    Apeldoorn
    Ede
    Elburg
    Harderwijk
    Wageningen