Best attractions and places to see in Veluwe include a diverse range of natural landscapes and significant cultural sites. This forest-rich ridge of hills in the province of Gelderland in the Netherlands features expansive woodlands, heathlands, and Europe's largest sand drifts. The region offers varied terrain, from rolling hills to flat plains, making it suitable for different outdoor activities. It is a destination for those interested in nature, art, and Dutch history.
Last updated: May 8, 2026
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Popular around Veluwe
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Please note: The Emma Pyramid, the tower that can be climbed, is temporarily closed. All routes are still accessible. The tower itself cannot be climbed for safety reasons. This is temporary, as maintenance still needs to be scheduled.
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Nice cycle paths cross each other here through the vast nature reserve.
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Large boulders are a work of art by Adri Verhoeven. 'Herd' is part of the stone sculpture route Ede. There are eight stones in total and each stone has a slightly different shape and color. Herds of horses and cows often graze at the work of art, which is why Adri Verhoeven chose the name 'Herd'. When polishing the stones, Adri Verhoeven made sure that there were no traces of human modifications to the stone.
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The Emma Pyramid is located in the Veluwezoom National Park, near the village of Rozendaal. The road leading to the Emma Pyramid is generally well-maintained and provides a safe environment for climbing. Traffic is usually minimal, especially during quieter times. Upon reaching the Emma Pyramid summit, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the Veluwezoom and the surrounding nature. It's a perfect spot to rest and take in the scenery before beginning your descent. Climbing the Emma Pyramid not only presents a physical challenge but also offers an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Veluwezoom. It's a must for cyclists who enjoy discovering new routes and testing their climbing skills. The average gradient of the climb varies between 3% and 5%, with some steeper sections towards the summit. The climb to the Emma Pyramid is approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers long, depending on the route chosen, with an elevation gain of about 50 to 70 meters.
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A beautifully varied cycle path through the nature of Planken Wambuis. One moment you are cycling along vast heathlands, and the next you are cycling through rows of avenue trees. Along the way you will come across the artwork 'the Herd' by Adri Verhoeven. Could it represent the herds of cattle or horses that you often see grazing here?
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Veluwezoom is the oldest national park in Holland. This hilly landscape with forest, heath and shifting sand has been a protected area since 1931. You can wander freely on the paths and trails and there are plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, cycling and mountain biking. Don't be surprised if you suddenly come face to face with a red deer or a wild boar on the Veluwezoom.
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The granite stones are an eye-catcher and a good opportunity to take a little break.
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"We leave the busy N224 at the level of the Oud-Reemsterhei and cycle pretty straight ahead on the Planken Wambuisweg through this wide heathland; sometimes the path is lined with avenue trees, then again it almost disappears under the leaves. “The Planken Wambuis natural area was part of the estate belonging to Rosendael Castle for centuries. The long rows of beech trees, hedgerows and moats in this area date from this time.” https://www.visit-ede.de/natur-aktiv/naturfelder/naturgebiet-planken-wambuis" https://www.komoot.de/tour/962145286
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The Veluwe region is renowned for its natural beauty. You can explore the expansive Veluwezoom National Park, known for its varied and hilly landscapes, including forests, heath, and sand drifts. Within Veluwezoom, the Posbank Viewpoint offers stunning vistas, especially when the heather is in bloom. Another significant natural area is De Hoge Veluwe National Park, which features woodlands, heathlands, grasslands, and Europe's largest sand drifts, perfect for wildlife spotting.
Yes, Veluwe offers several compelling historical and cultural sites. A unique landmark is Radio Kootwijk, a former transmitter park with a distinctive monumental building set amidst the Kootwijkerzand sand drifts. Other notable sites include Paleis Het Loo, a magnificent 17th-century royal palace, and the Kröller-Müller Museum, home to a significant Van Gogh collection and a large sculpture garden within De Hoge Veluwe National Park.
Veluwe is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking, cycling, and mountain biking. The region offers diverse terrain, from challenging climbs like the Emma Pyramid climb to more leisurely routes through forests and heathlands. For specific routes, you can explore guides for running trails, gravel biking, and MTB trails in the Veluwe region.
The Veluwe is beautiful year-round, but the best time often depends on your interests. For vibrant purple heathlands, late summer to early autumn (August-September) is ideal, especially around the Posbank. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and lush greenery, while autumn offers stunning fall foliage. Winter can be serene for quiet walks, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Absolutely! Veluwe offers many family-friendly options. Beyond the national parks where children can explore nature, attractions like Burgers' Zoo in Arnhem provide immersive habitats. Apenheul Primate Park allows monkeys to roam freely, and Julianatoren is a theme park specifically designed for younger children. The Kudde Sculpture by Adri Verhoeven is also a fun, accessible stop for families.
The national parks are prime locations for wildlife spotting. De Hoge Veluwe National Park is home to red deer, wild boar, roe deer, badgers, foxes, and mouflons. Veluwezoom National Park also offers opportunities to see red deer and wild boar. Early mornings or late evenings are generally the best times for observing animals in their natural habitat.
The Veluwe region features a diverse terrain. You'll find rolling hills, particularly prominent in Veluwezoom National Park, which offer challenging climbs and scenic viewpoints. There are also extensive flat plains, dense forests, and unique sand drifts, providing a variety of walking and cycling experiences suitable for different fitness levels.
Yes, cycling is a very popular way to explore the national parks. De Hoge Veluwe National Park, for instance, provides 1,800 free-to-use 'white bikes' for visitors to explore its extensive network of paths. Veluwezoom National Park also has numerous cycling routes that wind through its forests, heathlands, and hilly landscapes.
The Veluwe is home to several spectacular viewpoints. The Posbank Viewpoint in Veluwezoom National Park is perhaps the most famous, offering panoramic views over the heathlands. The Emma Pyramid climb also leads to a viewpoint through a scenic forest. Many trails within the national parks offer elevated positions with beautiful vistas of the diverse landscapes.
Visitors frequently praise the untouched nature and the varied landscapes of the Veluwe, particularly the forests, heaths, and sand drifts found in places like Veluwezoom National Park. The relief of the terrain, offering beautiful views, is also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty with historical sites such as Radio Kootwijk, making for a diverse and engaging experience.
Yes, Veluwe is home to Europe's largest sand drifts, such as the Kootwijkerzand, which create a unique, almost desert-like landscape. Additionally, the Speulderbos is known as the 'forest of dancing trees' due to its unusually shaped, ancient beeches, offering a distinct natural experience.
The Veluwe region is dotted with numerous historical castles and country houses. Examples include Castle de Essenburgh, Castle Staverden, and Castle de Cannenburch. These sites often offer a glimpse into the region's rich history and feature beautiful grounds for exploration.
Beyond the Kröller-Müller Museum, Veluwe hosts other distinctive museums. The Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem provides a journey through Dutch history with historic houses and farms. Within De Hoge Veluwe National Park, Museonder is the world's first underground museum, offering an intriguing look at life beneath the earth's surface.


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