National Park De Hoge Veluwe

Thinking of nature in Holland, many people will mention The Veluwe first. And rightly so! This nature park attracts many visitors from all over the world, who stroll through the endless woods, while being fascinated. Nonetheless, the heath lands, grass fields and sand drifts are equally impressive. Before you enter the National Park, it is recommended to visit the visitors centre first, with Museonder below, an underground nature museum. As such, you get a good impression of the natural forces which led to the creation of this piece of nature. Once you have seen that, you can take one of the free White Bikes to go and explore the park.

Must-visit: The Vrijenbergspreng
Who claims that you should go to Africa or North America to see beautiful waterfalls? Also in Holland we have a shining example! The Vrijenbergspreng is the highest waterfall in our country, measuring 15 metres in height, located near the small village of Loenen on the Veluwe. This is created by the construction of a well – an excavated water course. Wells were dug by hand to serve the Apeldoorns-Dierens Canal with sufficient water to make navigation possible. As a ‘by-product’ two waterfalls emerged which are not only attractive, but also offer cooling on a hot day. The well is filled with lovely and cool ground water where one can have a nice paddle.

Must-see: The Big Five!
What’s more, also for the Big Five you don’t need to travel to Africa. Go and enjoy a safari on home ground, together with the kids, spot wild animals on the Veluwe! In this park the animals have ample freedom of movement, something which already becomes evident very quickly. A large number of animals, which are on the Red List of threatened and protected species, can be found here. Though, to be honest, they can’t compete with the lords and masters of the area: red deer, wild boars, roe deer, foxes and Scottish highland cattle. Book a wildlife excursion, go on a safari with the forester, or visit a wildlife arena where all these animals are grazing.

Must-do: Veluwsche Stoomtrein Maatschappij (Steam train company)
A wonderful experience for many a visitor, from families with (young) children to grandparents and train fanatics. The Veluwsche Stoomtrein Maatschappij (VSM) offers a unique train journey back into the past. You can ride on steam locomotives, historical diesel locomotives and carriages through the delightful landscape of the Veluwe, taking you from Apeldoorn and Dieren past villages like Beekbergen, Loenen and Eerbeek. And not only the trains are an attraction, also the interior is absolutely worthwhile. Be honest: a trip in a rolling railway museum through one of the most beautiful Dutch areas. Doesn’t that sound like a great day out and about?

Made possible also by: Visit Veluwe