Ommen Travel Guide (Overijssel/Eastern Netherlands/Netherlands/Benelux/Europe)

Introduction to Ommen

Located in the eastern province of Overijssel in the Netherlands, Ommen is a charming town famous for its beautiful natural landscapes, rich history, and welcoming locals. Surrounded by lush green forests and winding rivers, Ommen is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. With its plethora of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and delicious food, Ommen is a must-visit destination in the Netherlands.

List of Places to Visit in Ommen

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Vechtdal Museum: Located in the heart of Ommen, the Vechtdal Museum is a treasure trove of local history and culture. The museum showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage through its impressive collection of archaeological finds, traditional costumes, and historic artifacts.
St. Brigitta Church: This beautiful church was built in the 12th century and is a prominent landmark in Ommen. The church is dedicated to St. Brigitta, the patron saint of Sweden, and is renowned for its beautiful Gothic architecture.
Ommen Castle: Ommen Castle is a must-visit attraction for history buffs. Built in the 14th century, the castle has served as a fortification, a prison, and a residence for various noble families throughout its storied history. Today, it houses an exhibition on the castle’s fascinating past.

Natural Attractions of Ommen: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lemelerberg: Lemelerberg is a nature reserve situated close to the town of Ommen. The park is dotted with heathlands, forests, and sand drifts and is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike and enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the top of the hill.
De Koppel: De Koppel is a nature center located on the banks of the Vecht River. The center offers a range of activities, including guided nature walks, boat trips, and bird-watching tours. Visitors can also learn about the river’s ecosystem and the animals that call it home at the center’s interactive exhibits.
Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park: Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park is a vast nature reserve located near Ommen. The park covers over 35 square kilometers and is home to a diverse array of plant and animal life. Visitors can explore the park’s numerous hiking and cycling trails, spot wildlife, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ommen

Ommen has a fantastic network of hiking and cycling trails that wind their way through the region’s stunning natural landscape. Some of the most popular routes include:

Vechtdalroute: The Vechtdalroute is a 56-kilometer cycling route that takes visitors through the beautiful Vecht Valley. The route passes through charming villages, picturesque countryside, and beautiful forests.
Pieterpad: The Pieterpad is a famous long-distance hiking trail that runs from the Dutch-German border to the town of Pieterburen in the Netherlands. A section of the trail passes through Ommen and takes visitors through some of the region’s most beautiful landscapes.
Marskramerpad: The Marskramerpad is a 360-kilometer long-distance hiking trail that runs from Bad Bentheim in Germany to Scheveningen beach in the Netherlands. The trail passes through Ommen and takes visitors through some of the region’s most beautiful countryside.

Best Things to Do in Ommen: Activities and Tours

Boat Tour: The Vecht River is one of the region’s most impressive natural attractions, and visitors can take a boat tour to explore its beauty. Boat tours depart from the center of Ommen and take visitors through the picturesque countryside.
Canoeing: Canoeing down the Vecht River is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of Ommen. Visitors can rent canoes from various locations in the town and paddle down the river at their leisure.
Horse Riding: Horseback riding is a fun and exciting way to explore the region’s natural landscape. The region has several stables that offer guided horseback tours through the countryside.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ommen

Day	Activity
1	Visit the Vechtdal Museum, explore the town center, and take a boat tour along the Vecht River.
2	Explore the beautiful countryside of Lemelerberg and take a cycling or hiking tour of the nature reserve.
3	Visit Ommen Castle and learn about the region’s fascinating history.
4	Enjoy a relaxing day at the De Koppel nature center, take a bird-watching tour, or rent a boat and explore the river.
5	Take a day trip to nearby Zwolle and explore the historic city center.
6	Visit the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park and enjoy a day of hiking, cycling, or wildlife spotting.
7	Spend the day exploring the Ommen countryside on horseback and enjoy a traditional Dutch meal in one of the town’s many restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Ommen

Must-Try Dishes

Stamppot: Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes and vegetables, often served with smoked sausage or bacon. It is a hearty and delicious meal that is perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Poffertjes: Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes made with buckwheat flour and yeast. They are typically served with butter and powdered sugar and make for a great mid-day snack.
Haring: Haring, or soused herring, is a classic Dutch dish made from raw herrings that have been cured in salt and vinegar. It is typically served with pickles and onions and is a must-try for seafood lovers.

Local Beverages

Jenever: Jenever is a traditional Dutch liquor made from juniper berries. It is similar to gin but has a milder flavor and is typically served in small glasses.
Dutch Beer: The Netherlands is famous for its excellent beer, and Ommen is no exception. The town has several breweries that produce a range of delicious beers, including the famous Hertog Jan brewery.

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

Ommen has a range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Some of the most popular options include:

Hotel Paping: Hotel Paping is a comfortable hotel located in the heart of Ommen. The hotel has spacious rooms, a restaurant serving local specialties, and a sauna and fitness center.
Stoetenslagh: Stoetenslagh is a family-friendly holiday park that offers a range of accommodation options, including camping pitches, chalets, and mobile homes.
Vakantiepark De Wolfskuil: Vakantiepark De Wolfskuil is a cozy holiday park located on the edge of the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park. The park has several accommodation options, including cabins, bungalows, and a camping ground.

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

Cheese: The Netherlands is famous for its cheese, and Ommen has several cheese shops where visitors can purchase a variety of delicious Dutch cheeses.
Clogs: Wooden clogs are a classic Dutch souvenir and make for a unique and quirky memento of your trip to Ommen.
Local Artisanal Products: Ommen is home to several artisanal producers, including bakers, brewers, and cheesemakers. Visitors can purchase a range of locally-made products, including artisanal bread, craft beer, and handmade cheeses.

Local Culture and Customs of Ommen

Ommen is a friendly and welcoming town where visitors are sure to feel at home. The locals are proud of their cultural heritage and are always happy to share it with visitors. Some local customs and traditions to be aware of include:

Bicycling: The Netherlands is a nation of cyclists, and Ommen is no exception. Visitors should be aware of the many cyclists on the roads and be careful when crossing cycle paths.
Sinterklaas: Sinterklaas is a traditional Dutch festival that takes place in early December. During the festival, Sinterklaas, a legendary figure similar to Santa Claus, visits Ommen and hands out presents to the town’s children.

Best Time to Visit Ommen

The best time to visit Ommen is in the summer months between June and August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the countryside is in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, and canoeing, and take part in several local festivals and events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ommen

Do:

Try the local cuisine: Dutch cuisine is delicious and hearty, and visitors should make sure to try some of the local specialties during their stay in Ommen.
Respect the local customs and traditions: The locals of Ommen are proud of their cultural heritage and visitors should be courteous and respectful of their customs and traditions.
Explore the countryside: Ommen is surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, and visitors should take the time to explore the region’s picturesque countryside.

Don’t:

Forget to bring a raincoat: The Netherlands is known for its rainy weather, and visitors should be prepared for wet weather during their stay in Ommen.
Litter in public spaces: The people of Ommen are environmentally conscious, and visitors should dispose of their litter properly and respect the town’s public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ommen

Ommen is a safe and friendly town, and visitors are unlikely to encounter any serious safety issues during their stay. However, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take the usual precautions to avoid pickpockets and other petty crime.

Health in Ommen

The Netherlands has an excellent healthcare system, and visitors are entitled to medical treatment at any hospital or medical facility in the country. Visitors should make sure to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses before their trip.

Getting to Ommen: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ommen

The nearest airport to Ommen is Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport, located approximately 130 kilometers away. Visitors can take a train or bus from the airport to Ommen, with travel times taking around two to three hours.

Bus Stations Near Ommen

Ommen has its bus station, which is located in the town center. Several bus services run from the station to neighboring towns and cities, including Zwolle and Deventer.

Other Options

Visitors to Ommen can also travel by train, with frequent services running from Amsterdam, Utrecht, and other major Dutch cities.

How to Get Around in Ommen

Ommen is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. The town has an extensive network of cycling paths that make it easy to get around, and visitors can rent bikes from several locations in the town. Taxis and buses are also available for those who prefer not to walk or cycle.

Where to Go Next from Ommen: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Zwolle: Zwolle is a charming medieval city located just a short drive from Ommen. The city has a rich cultural heritage and is home to several museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks.
Deventer: Deventer is a beautiful and historic town known for its picturesque old town and stunning architecture. The town is located approximately 30 kilometers from Ommen and is easily accessible by bus or train.
Kampen: Kampen is another charming Dutch town known for its beautiful architecture, quaint streets, and welcoming locals. The town is located approximately 50 kilometers from Ommen and is easily accessible by train or car.

Conclusion

Ommen is a beautiful and historic town that is sure to captivate visitors with its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and friendly locals. With its range of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, delicious food, and comfortable accommodation options, Ommen is the perfect destination for travelers looking for a peaceful retreat in the heart of the Netherlands.