Hiking on the Veluwe
The Veluwe is one of the most beautiful hiking areas in the Netherlands. With hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails, there is a suitable route for every hiker through the vast heathlands, dense forests, and impressive sand drifts.
Put on your hiking boots for a short walk of a few kilometers, or turn it into a full day of hiking past nature reserves, viewpoints, and perhaps even an encounter with wildlife.
Are you looking for the most beautiful hiking routes on the Veluwe, or do you simply want to enjoy a lovely walk? From Apeldoorn, many of the most famous hiking areas on the Veluwe are within easy reach. This makes the city an ideal base for a day in nature or a complete hiking weekend.
Why go hiking on the Veluwe?
The Veluwe is perhaps the most varied nature reserve in the Netherlands. Within a single walk, you stroll from a dense pine forest to an open heathland, past shifting sands and fens, while along the way you might suddenly find yourself face to face with a red deer or a group of wild boars.
Moreover, every season has its own charm. Especially in late August and early September, the blooming heather fields draw many hikers to the Veluwe. Purple expanses as far as the eye can see make this period the most beautiful time of the year for many to venture into nature. In spring, the forests turn a fresh green, and in autumn, the Veluwe transforms into a colorful backdrop full of red, yellow, and orange. Hiking is also special in winter, when the forests are silent and frost or snow gives the landscape a magical appearance.
Curious which nature reserves you definitely shouldn't miss during your walk? Then click here for our page about the most beautiful nature reserves on the Veluwe.
The most beautiful hiking areas on the Veluwe
De Hoge Veluwe National Park
One of the most famous places to hike is undoubtedly De Hoge Veluwe National Park. The park offers dozens of hiking trails through forests, heathlands, and sand drifts.
Along the way, you pass special places such as the Sint Hubertus Hunting Lodge and the Kröller-Müller Museum. So, if you like to combine nature and culture, this is the perfect place.
Kootwijkerzand
The Kootwijkerzand is also known as the largest active sand drift in Western Europe. Here, it sometimes feels as if you are walking through a mini-desert. The combination of sand plains, pine forests, and panoramic views makes this one of the most unique hiking areas on the Veluwe.
Veluwezoom National Park
Veluwezoom National Park is located on the eastern side of the Veluwe. The Posbank is particularly popular thanks to its rolling hills and vast heathlands. In August and September, the heather is in full bloom, transforming the landscape into a purple sea.
Crown Estate Het Loo
Kroondomein Het Loo is located near Apeldoorn. Here you can walk through centuries-old forests where tranquility prevails. Part of the area is temporarily closed each year to ensure peace and quiet for the wildlife, but the remaining parts are accessible all year round.
Popular hiking routes on the Veluwe
Thanks to the enormous selection, there is always a route that suits your day. On the Veluwe, you will find both short walking routes of 5 kilometers and longer treks of 10 kilometers or more. As a result, there is a suitable route for every hiker: from a relaxed forest walk to a substantial day trip.
Some popular walks are:
- Walking routes through De Hoge Veluwe National Park
- Circular walks across the Kootwijkerzand
- Walks around the Posbank
- Routes through the Royal Estate Het Loo
- Forest walks in the Leuvenum Forest
Make use of the walking network on the Veluwe or follow the marked routes. You can also find current walking routes, distances, and route maps via the official walking overview of De Hoge Veluwe National Park.
Would you prefer to discover the Veluwe on two wheels? Many hiking areas also feature excellent cycle paths. Therefore, be sure to check out our tips for cycling on the Veluwe.
Spotting wildlife during a walk
A walk on the Veluwe is extra special because you have a chance to encounter wild animals. Red deer, roe deer, wild boars, and sometimes even foxes can be seen, especially early in the morning or just before sunset. Always stay on the paths, keep a safe distance, and above all, enjoy the moment. With a little patience, an ordinary walk suddenly becomes a special nature experience.
Do you want to know where you have the best chance of seeing wildlife? Click here for tips on spotting wildlife on the Veluwe.
Walking with children
The Veluwe is also a fantastic destination for families. Scattered throughout the area are scavenger hunts, gnome trails, and short walking routes specially designed for young hikers. Along the way, there is plenty to discover, from unique trees and animals to playgrounds in the heart of nature.
This way, walking becomes not only relaxing for adults but also an adventure for children. Are you looking for more fun activities for young and old in addition to a walk? Discover the best family outings on the Veluwe.
Practical tips for hiking on the Veluwe
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, even on shorter routes.
- Bring plenty of water and something to eat, especially on longer walks.
- Download a walking route in advance or use the nodes.
- Respect nature and stay on the marked paths.
- You have the best chance of spotting wildlife early in the morning or towards evening.
- Are you bringing your dog? Dogs are welcome in various areas, provided they are kept on a leash. Always check the rules of the nature reserve you are visiting beforehand.
Turn it into a walking weekend
One walk is actually not enough to truly discover the Veluwe. Many hikers therefore opt for a full weekend, allowing plenty of time to explore various nature reserves and take in charming villages or sights along the way. This allows you to discover a different side of the Veluwe every day: from vast forests and heathlands to impressive sand drifts. Moreover, there are ample opportunities along the route to stop at a restaurant or terrace for a well-deserved break.
Apeldoorn is an ideal base for this. From here, you can reach De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Kroondomein Het Loo, Radio Kootwijk, and the Kootwijkerzand, among others, by car in a short time.
Are you still looking for inspiration? Then also check out our page about a weekend getaway on the Veluwe.
Staying overnight in Apeldoorn
Stay overnight in Apeldoorn at Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo. Thanks to its central location, you can reach many of the most beautiful hiking areas in a short time. After an active day in nature, you can relax at the hotel and start a new hike the next morning feeling refreshed.
Would you prefer to stay overnight in Arnhem?
Would you like to combine a visit to the Veluwe with a trip to Arnhem or go for walks on the southern side of the nature reserve? Then Bastion Hotel Arnhem is an excellent choice. From the hotel, you can easily reach the Veluwezoom, De Hoge Veluwe National Park, and other hiking areas by car. Moreover, you will be staying within walking distance of the lively city center of Arnhem.
Want to know more about a stay in nature? Also read our page about overnight stays on the Veluwe.
