Wildlife spotting on the Veluwe
The Veluwe is one of the best places in the Netherlands to see wild animals in their natural habitat. From impressive red deer and roe deer to wild boars and foxes: with a little patience and a little luck, you will come face to face with the inhabitants of the Veluwe during a walk or bike ride.
Wondering where the best place to spot wildlife on the Veluwe is? Below you will find the most beautiful areas and practical tips to increase your chances of a special encounter.
Which wild animals live on the Veluwe?
The Veluwe is the largest contiguous nature reserve in the Netherlands and provides a habitat for various wild animals. During a visit, you may encounter the following animal species, among others:
Red deer
The red deer is perhaps the most famous animal of the Veluwe. Spotting red deer on the Veluwe is particularly popular in September and October, because during the rutting season the imposing stags regularly show themselves and you can hear their characteristic bellowing echoing through the forests. That makes this period extra special for nature lovers.
Wild boars
Wild boars are also common on the Veluwe and are one of the highlights of a nature visit for many visitors. They often roam through the forests in groups in search of food. You have the best chance of spotting them especially early in the morning or around sunset.
Roe deer
Roe deer are smaller than red deer, but at least as special to encounter. They are often seen at the edge of the forest or on open heathlands, where they graze peacefully.
Foxes
With a bit of luck, you might also spot a fox during a quiet walk. Although they are usually shy, they sometimes show themselves in the early morning or at dusk.
In addition to these well-known species, many more animals live on the Veluwe, such as badgers, birds of prey, various woodpecker species, and in some places even the wolf.
Where is the best place to spot wildlife on the Veluwe?
Although you can encounter wild animals in many places, some areas are particularly popular for wildlife observation on the Veluwe.
Crown Estate Het Loo
Royal Estate Het Loo is one of the best-known areas for spotting red deer, roe deer, and wild boars. Thanks to the vast forests and peaceful surroundings, many animals feel at home here.
De Hoge Veluwe National Park
De Hoge Veluwe National Park is one of the best places to spot wildlife on the Veluwe. Walk or cycle through the diverse landscapes and keep a close eye on your surroundings along the way. It is precisely the alternation between forests, heathlands, and open plains that makes this an attractive habitat for many animals.
Kootwijkerzand
The vast Kootwijkerzand is special not only because of its impressive landscape, but also a beautiful place to spot animals. Various animal species live in the surrounding forests, and with a bit of luck, you can see them from the transition between forest and sand drift.
Deelerwoud
The Deelerwoud is known as one of the quietest nature reserves on the Veluwe. Especially during sunrise and sunset, you have a good chance of seeing red deer and wild boars here.
Curious about even more special areas? Also check out the most beautiful nature reserves on the Veluwe.
Planks Wambuis
Planken Wambuis is one of the best places to spot wildlife on the Veluwe. This vast nature reserve between Ede and Arnhem consists of a varied landscape of forests, heathlands, and grasslands, making it an ideal habitat for red deer, roe deer, and wild boars.
When is the best time to spot wildlife?
You have the best chance of spotting wildlife on the Veluwe early in the morning or around sunset. At these times, many animals are active, and it is also much quieter in nature.
The season also plays an important role. In autumn, the rutting season of the red deer is a real crowd-puller. In spring, on the other hand, you see many young animals and the forests turn a fresh green.
Tips for a successful wildlife observation
With these tips, you increase your chances of seeing wild animals:
- Set out early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
- Wear discreet clothing that blends in with nature.
- Speak softly and move calmly.
- Bring binoculars.
- Always stay on the marked paths.
- Keep a sufficient distance and never feed the animals.
Always respect nature and give animals space. Keep your distance, do not make loud noises, and let animals go their own way. This way, wildlife spotting on the Veluwe remains not only a special experience for you, but also safe and peaceful for the animals.
Combine wildlife spotting with hiking or cycling
Many people combine wildlife viewing on the Veluwe with a walk or bike ride. That is not surprising, because moving quietly through nature actually increases your chances of seeing animals. There are various wildlife routes on the Veluwe that take you past areas where wild animals are regularly sighted.
Are you planning to go hiking? Then also check out our tips for hiking on the Veluwe.
Would you rather explore the surroundings on two wheels? Then read more about cycling on the Veluwe.
Wildlife spotting with children
For families, wildlife spotting is also a special experience. Children often love looking for tracks along the way or unexpectedly spotting a red deer or wild boar. A walk across the Veluwe sometimes feels like a mini safari. With a little patience and luck, you will discover many more animals along the way than you expect.
Are you looking for even more fun activities? Then also discover the best family outings on the Veluwe.
Discover the Veluwe from Apeldoorn
Apeldoorn is centrally located on the Veluwe, making it an excellent base for nature lovers. From the city, you can easily reach various areas where you can hike, cycle, and spot wildlife.
Do you want to visit other special places besides nature? Then also check out our tips for a weekend getaway on the Veluwe.
Staying overnight at Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo
Do you want to head out early in the morning to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife? Then an overnight stay near the Veluwe is ideal. Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo is located a short distance from various nature reserves, allowing you to head straight into nature without a long travel time.
After a day full of impressions, you can comfortably unwind at the hotel, so that you can set off again the next morning refreshed.
Want to know more about a stay in nature? Then also check out our page about overnight stays on the Veluwe.
