Elburg Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to Elburg, Netherlands - from cultural attractions to natural wonders, hiking trails, food and drink, accommodations, and transportation options.


Introduction to Elburg

Located in the Veluwe region in the province of Gelderland in the eastern part of the Netherlands, Elburg is a charming and picturesque town that is well-known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. With its well-preserved medieval walls, enchanting narrow streets, and historical landmarks, Elburg is a popular destination for travelers who are looking to immerse themselves in the town’s past, enjoy the outdoors, and get a taste of Dutch culture.

List of Places to Visit in Elburg

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Museum Elburg: One of the most popular attractions in Elburg, Museum Elburg showcases the rich cultural history of the town and the surrounding area. The museum features exhibits on local art, architecture, and crafts, as well as displays on the history of the Elburg port and the town’s relationship with the sea.

  2. Sjoel Elburg: Sjoel Elburg is a former synagogue that has been transformed into a cultural center and museum. The building has been well-preserved, and visitors can explore the various exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the Jewish community in Elburg and the surrounding region.

  3. Vischpoort: Vischpoort is a historic gatehouse that dates back to the 14th century. The building is an excellent example of medieval architecture and is a popular stop for visitors who are interested in the town’s rich history.

Natural Attractions of Elburg: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Veluwemeer: Veluwemeer is a large lake that is located just a short distance from Elburg. The lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts who enjoy sailing, windsurfing, and swimming.

  2. Elburg Wall: The Elburg Wall is a well-preserved medieval wall that has been restored over the years. Walking along the wall provides visitors with stunning views of the town, countryside, and the surrounding area.

  3. Zandverstuiving: Zandverstuiving is an expansive sand dune area that is located a short distance from Elburg. The area is perfect for hiking and exploring, and visitors can enjoy stunning views of the Dutch countryside and the rolling sand dunes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elburg

  1. Vestingwal Route: The Vestingwal Route is a 3.5-kilometer circular route that follows the historic walls of Elburg. The trail offers stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside and is an excellent option for those looking for a shorter hike or bike ride.

  2. Knarbos Route: The Knarbos Route is a 13-kilometer route that takes visitors through the beautiful Veluwe forests and the Knarbos heathland. The trail is a bit more challenging and requires a moderate level of fitness but provides an excellent opportunity to get outside and explore the natural beauty of the area.

Best Things to Do in Elburg: Activities and Tours

  1. Boat Tour: One of the best ways to explore Elburg is by taking a boat tour. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing cruise along the town’s canals and learn more about the history and culture of the town.

  2. Shopping: Elburg is famous for its specialty shops. Visitors can explore the town’s winding streets and browse through a wide variety of locally made arts and crafts, including wooden clocks, pottery, and textiles.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elburg

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Elburg, explore the town’s historical landmarks and take a boat tour.
2 Visit Museum Elburg and learn about the town’s cultural heritage.
3 Take a hike/bike ride along the Knarbos Route and explore the Veluwe forests.
4 Visit Sjoel Elburg and learn about the town’s Jewish history.
5 Discover the natural beauty of the area with a visit to Zandverstuiving.
6 Relax on the shores of Veluwemeer and enjoy water sports.
7 Explore the town’s unique shops and take home some locally made souvenirs.

Food and Drink Scene of Elburg

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Stamppot: A traditional Dutch dish, stamppot is a comforting and hearty meal made with mashed potatoes and vegetables and served with sausage or bacon.

  2. Bitterballen: A popular Dutch snack, bitterballen are deep-fried balls of meat ragout that are typically served with spicy mustard.

Local Beverages

  1. Jenever: Jenever is a traditional Dutch liquor that is similar to gin. It is typically served with a slice of lemon and can be enjoyed as an aperitif or digestif.

  2. Dutch Beer: The Netherlands is famous for its beer, and there are many local breweries that produce a wide range of delicious and unique beers that visitors can try.

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

  1. Villa de Haar: Located in the heart of Elburg, Villa de Haar is a small and cozy bed and breakfast that offers comfortable accommodations in a charming setting.

  2. Hotel de Admiraal: Hotel de Admiraal is a historic hotel that is located in the center of town. The hotel features comfortable rooms and excellent amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.

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

  1. Wooden Clocks: Elburg is famous for its handmade wooden clocks, which are crafted using traditional techniques.

  2. Pottery: Visitors can take home locally made pottery, which is known for its unique designs and vivid colors.

Local Culture and Customs of Elburg

Elburg is proud of its rich cultural heritage, and visitors are encouraged to take part in local traditions and customs. One of the most popular events in Elburg is the annual Fishermen’s Festival, which takes place in June and celebrates the town’s fishing culture with traditional music, dance, and delicious seafood.

Best Time to Visit Elburg

The best time to visit Elburg is during the summer months (June to August), when the weather is sunny and warm, and there are many outdoor events and activities to enjoy. However, visitors can also enjoy the town’s charm and beauty during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild, and the crowds are smaller.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elburg

Do:

  1. Explore the town’s historical landmarks and museums.

  2. Take a boat tour of Elburg’s canals.

  3. Try the local food and drink, including stamppot and jenever.

Don’t:

  1. Disturb the local wildlife or natural areas.

  2. Leave trash or litter behind when exploring the outdoors.

  3. Ignore local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elburg

Elburg is a safe destination for travelers, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any major safety concerns. However, it is always a good idea to take common-sense precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and locking valuables in a safe place.

Health in Elburg

Elburg has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors can expect to receive high-quality medical care if needed. However, it is always a good idea to purchase travel insurance and have access to emergency medical services in case of an unexpected illness or injury.

Getting to Elburg: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Elburg

The nearest airport to Elburg is Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, which is located approximately 70 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a train to Zwolle and then transfer to a local bus or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Elburg

Elburg has a local bus station that provides connections to nearby towns and cities, including Zwolle and Amersfoort.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a private driver to explore the area at their own pace.

How to Get Around in Elburg

Elburg is a small town that can easily be explored on foot or by bike. Visitors can also rent a car or take a local bus or taxi to explore the surrounding countryside.

Where to Go Next from Elburg: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Hoge Veluwe National Park: Hoge Veluwe National Park is a vast nature reserve that is located just a short distance from Elburg. The park offers excellent hiking and biking trails, as well as stunning natural scenery.

  2. Kampen: Located just a short distance from Elburg, Kampen is a charming city that is well-known for its beautiful historic buildings and rich cultural heritage.

Conclusion

Elburg is a hidden gem that is well worth a visit for travelers who are interested in exploring the rich history and culture of the Netherlands. With its stunning natural scenery, charming medieval streets, and excellent local food and drink, Elburg is a destination that is sure to enchant and delight visitors of all ages.

City view City view Housing embedded in the city wall. Housing embedded in the city wall. Saint-Nicolas/Great Church with its iconic flat-top tower. Saint-Nicolas/Great Church with its iconic flat-top tower.