Ede Travel Guide (Veluwe/Gelderland/Eastern Netherlands/Netherlands/Benelux/Europe)

Introduction to Ede

Nestled in the Veluwe region, in Gelderland, Eastern Netherlands, lies the charming town of Ede. With its vast horizons, flourishing forests, and heaths, Ede is an ideal destination for nature lovers. In addition to the beautiful outdoors, Ede features plenty of cultural attractions, world-class museums, and a bustling food and drink scene that make it a great destination for all types of travelers.

Whether you want to explore nature, learn about history and architecture, or enjoy the local cuisine, Ede has something for you. In this travel guide, we will take you through the best attractions, activities, and places to stay, eat, and explore in Ede.

List of Places to Visit in Ede

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For history and culture aficionados, Ede offers a rich selection of museums and historical sites:

Kröller-Müller Museum: This world-renowned museum boasts one of the largest collections of Vincent van Gogh’s paintings, as well as an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art. It also has a stunning sculpture garden with over 160 sculptures.
Historical Museum Ede: This museum showcases the town’s rich history, from prehistoric times to the present day. Exhibits include ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, and interactive displays that bring the past to life.
The Cunera Church: This impressive Gothic church dates back to the 15th century and features stunning stained-glass windows and intricate architecture. It’s also home to the legendary Saint Cunera’s bones.

Natural Attractions of Ede: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Ede offers incredible opportunities for outdoor activities and breathtaking natural scenery:

Hoge Veluwe National Park: This expansive park spreads over 13,500 hectares and encompasses forests, heaths, and sand dunes with an endless array of hiking and biking trails. The park also features a museum, a sculpture garden, and a game reserve.
The Ginkelse Hei: This heathland area offers fantastic views of the region, especially during sunrise or sunset. The surroundings are perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking.
The Edese Bos: This beautiful woodland area features a maze, a butterfly garden, numerous walking paths and a tea house within the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ede

Ede’s natural surroundings provide numerous hiking and biking trails for tourists of all skill levels. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

The Veluwezoom National Park: This park has many scenic trails, leading through forests, heaths, and hills with scenic viewpoints. Visitors may spot deer or wild boars during their hike.
The Ginkelse Hei: This heathland area has a loop hike of about 7 kilometers, offering fantastic views of the region.
The Edese Bos: This woodland park is a perfect destination for a family-friendly hike. The trails are well marked and lead to a variety of attractions.

Best Things to Do in Ede: Activities and Tours

With all the nature, history, and culture in Ede, there’s plenty to do. Here are some of the highlights:

Rent a bicycle and explore the town and surrounding natural areas on your own. Many trails are well-marked, and there are plenty of bike rental options in town.
Take a horse carriage tour of the Veluwe, taking in the sights and sounds of the park in a traditional way.
Go on a guided tour of the Kröller-Müller Museum, learning about the history of art and architecture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ede

To make the most out of your visit, follow this week-long itinerary for Ede:

Day 1: Explore the town center of Ede, checking out its shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Day 2: Hike or bike through Hoge Veluwe National Park and visit its various attractions, including the Kröller-Müller Museum and the sculpture garden.
Day 3: Visit the Historical Museum Ede, learning about the town’s history and its role in the broader region’s past.
Day 4: Explore the stunning Cunera Church and the Gothic architecture that makes it a must-visit destination.
Day 5: Take a horse carriage tour of the Veluwe and take in the sights and sounds of the region.
Day 6: Go on a tour of the Edese Bos, enjoying its hiking trails, tea-house, and maze.
Day 7: Take a break and head to the town center for some well-deserved rest and relaxation.

Food and Drink Scene of Ede

Ede’s food scene is well-known throughout the region as a hub for gastronomy, with a wide selection of cafes, restaurants, and local dining spots.

Must-Try Dishes

Some of the specialties that you have to try include:

Stroopwafels: These thin waffles filled with sweet syrup are a classic Dutch treat.
Poffertjes: Similar to tiny pancakes, these fluffy, sweet treats are a popular snack throughout the Netherlands.
Boerenkool: A hearty dish made from mashed potatoes, kale, and smoked sausage, often served with gravy.

Local Beverages

Ede offers a range of beverages, including beer, coffee, and gin. Be sure to try some of these local favorites:

Edesche Vier: This local beer is brewed right in the town and is known for its full-bodied flavor and refreshing taste.
Dutch Coffee: A popular way to enjoy coffee in Ede is to add a splash of gin to the drink, providing a unique twist, and a delicious combination of flavors.
Dutch Gin: Jenever, the Dutch gin, is a national favorite. The gin is traditionally served in a tulip-shape glass and is often accompanied by a small piece of cheese.

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

Ede offers plenty of options when it comes to accommodations, fitting a range of budgets and preferences.

Some of the highly recommended places to stay in Ede include:

Hotel & Congrescentrum De Reehorst: A highly-rated hotel that offers excellent service and comfortable rooms.
De Bosrand: A family-run guesthouse that provides a warm and cozy atmosphere, with comfortable rooms and friendly hospitality.
Het Roode Koper: This hotel is located in the heart of the Veluwe and offers luxurious rooms and facilities.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs to bring back home from Ede, here are some suggestions:

Handmade Ceramic Items: Specialty ceramic shops in Ede feature unique and beautiful pottery pieces, with bowls, plates, and other handcrafted items that make great souvenirs.
Dutch Cheese: No trip to the Netherlands would be complete without trying the country’s famous cheese, such as Gouda and Edam. Visitors can buy these cheeses at local supermarkets and from local vendors.

Local Culture and Customs of Ede

Ede’s locals are warm, friendly, and welcoming to tourists. The town is known for its rich cultural traditions, especially related to art and architecture. Visitors should respect these traditions and engage with the local community to learn more about the customs and culture of Ede.

Best Time to Visit Ede

The best time to visit Ede is from mid-April to mid-October. This time of year provides pleasant weather for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and sightseeing. The town is also busier during this season with plenty of events and festivals taking place. Winters in Ede can be cold and rainy, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ede

Follow these tips to make the most of your trip to Ede:

Do:

Try local delicacies such as stroopwafels and Poffertjes.
Take some time to explore the natural surroundings and natural parks.
Respect the locals and engage with them to understand their culture and traditions.

Don’t:

Litter or disturb the natural surroundings and wildlife.
Take photos or videos of the locals without asking for permission.
Ignore the customs or offend the local customs and beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ede

Ede is a safe and peaceful town, with a low crime rate. Visitors should take regular precautions such as securing their valuables and staying aware of their surroundings.

Health in Ede

Visitors should carry adequate health insurance and keep their important documents safe and secure. The town’s health facilities are well-equipped, and international visitors can receive medical care if needed.

Getting to Ede: Transportation Options and Logistics

Visitors can travel to Ede by multiple modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Ede

The closest airport to Ede is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, which is around 80 kilometers away. From the airport, visitors can travel to Ede by bus, train, or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Ede

Ede has a well-connected bus network, with the main station located in the town center. From there, visitors can access multiple destinations, including Hoge Veluwe National Park.

Other Options

Visitors can reach Ede by train, with the nearest railway station located in Ede-Wageningen. From there, visitors can catch a bus, taxi, or rent a car to reach their final destination.

How to Get Around in Ede

Ede has excellent transportation infrastructure, with multiple modes of transportation options available, including:

Buses: A network of local and regional buses connects Ede to various destinations, both within and outside the town.
Taxis: Taxis are readily available and offer a convenient way to travel around Ede. Prices vary based on distance and time of day.
Bicycles: Visitors can rent bicycles from various vendors and ride around the town and natural surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Ede: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ede is well-positioned for visitors to explore other nearby destinations in the Netherlands, such as the cities of Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Visitors can also explore neighboring towns such as Arnhem, Utrecht, and Nijmegen, which have their unique attractions and charm.

Conclusion

Ede is a hidden gem that is yet to receive the attention it deserves from tourists. From its natural beauty to its rich culture and history, there’s something for everyone in Ede. This travel guide should help you get started on your journey to explore this beautiful town and its surroundings.

Ede Image Gallery

More than anything, Ede serves travellers as a base to explore the landscapes and wildlife of the Hoge Veluwe National Park.

The Ginkelse Heide near Ede