Best natural monuments around Zutphen offer a blend of historical charm and natural beauty. This historic Hanseatic city in the Netherlands provides access to diverse natural areas. The region is characterized by its river landscapes, estates, and forests, providing opportunities for outdoor exploration. These natural areas serve as accessible escapes into nature, complementing Zutphen's rich cultural heritage.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
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Hiking around Zutphen
Until around 1855, a paper mill operated on the De Molenbeek estate, powered by water from the Griftbeek stream. A waterwheel once stood at the site of the stone ruin, which powered the entire mill. The blue-green information board shows step by step how papermaking worked, from pounding old rags to pressing and drying the paper. This process began in the Middle Ages and continued into the last century. So, using water from the Veluwe, paper has been made in this region for over 400 years.
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So cute all those love knots in the trees
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It's remarkable how the trees grow together through the knots
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Beautiful nature and tranquility
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The natural monuments around Zutphen offer a diverse range of landscapes. You'll find beautiful riverine areas along the IJssel, such as Het Zwarte Schaar with its meanders and small islands. There are also tranquil forests and meadows, like those found at Landgoed Leusveld, and unique wetlands such as the Van den Akker Struinpaadje - Empe and Tondense Veen. Historic estates with ancient trees and avenues also contribute to the region's natural beauty.
Yes, the Tichelbeeksewaard, located along the IJssel river, offers walking paths that are accessible for strollers and wheelchairs. It features a 1.3-kilometer circular route with viewpoints and a 'city balcony' providing views of Zutphen's skyline, making it a great option for accessible nature enjoyment.
Beyond the well-known spots, consider visiting The Knopenlaantje, a charming forest path known for its 'love knots' in beech twigs, offering a romantic and unique walking experience. Another interesting site is the Old Waterfall of the Gravinnenbeek, where volunteers have restored the stream to flow freely, enhancing the area's natural appeal.
The natural areas around Zutphen are rich in biodiversity. At Landgoed Leusveld, you can spot a wide array of bird species, including owls, five types of woodpeckers, and the golden oriole. The wetlands of Tichelbeeksewaard are being developed to support freshwater mussels and dragonflies. Areas like Van den Akker Struinpaadje - Empe and Tondense Veen are known for spotting waterfowl, and Het Zwarte Schaar is home to many birds.
Many natural monuments around Zutphen are suitable for families. The Tichelbeeksewaard offers easy, accessible paths for strollers. Highlights like 't Zelle Estate and The Knopenlaantje provide pleasant walking environments. The river meander of Het Zwarte Schaar, with its small islands and beaches, can also be an engaging spot for families to explore.
The natural monuments around Zutphen offer beauty throughout the year. Spring and summer are ideal for seeing rare orchids bloom in grasslands at Landgoed Leusveld and enjoying lush greenery. Autumn brings vibrant colors to the forests, while winter offers peaceful, crisp walks. The Tichelbeeksewaard and river areas are pleasant in warmer months, but also offer unique views during colder periods.
The region around Zutphen is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can enjoy extensive hiking, running, and gravel biking. For detailed routes, explore the komoot guides for Hiking around Zutphen, Running Trails around Zutphen, and Gravel biking around Zutphen. These guides feature routes that often pass through or near many of the natural monuments.
Yes, the region beautifully blends nature with history. 't Zelle Estate is a prime example, featuring a historic country house and a unique avenue system, designated as a national monument. Landgoed Leusveld also contains the historic Leusveld hunting lodge, built in 1911, adding a historical dimension to its natural beauty.
Many natural areas, such as the Tichelbeeksewaard, are easily accessible from Zutphen's city center, often within walking or cycling distance. For locations further afield like Landgoed Leusveld, public transport options might involve a combination of train to Zutphen and then local buses or cycling. It's advisable to check local bus schedules for specific routes to the more remote estates or nature reserves.
Visitors frequently appreciate the tranquility and varied natural beauty. The winding paths of Van den Akker Struinpaadje - Empe and Tondense Veen are praised for their diverse landscapes and opportunities to spot waterfowl. The scenic views of the IJssel river from places like Het Zwarte Schaar and the accessible nature experience of Tichelbeeksewaard are also highly valued. The combination of natural escape and historical context, as seen at estates, is a recurring highlight.
Yes, the expansive Veluwe National Park is a significant natural monument located approximately 30 minutes away by car from Zutphen. It is renowned for its vast forests, heathlands, and sand drifts, offering extensive opportunities for hiking and cycling in a truly stunning natural setting.
Yes, several natural areas offer circular walking routes. The Tichelbeeksewaard, for instance, features a 1.3-kilometer circular route. Many of the estates and nature reserves, including Landgoed Leusveld, have well-maintained paths that can be combined into circular walks, allowing you to experience diverse landscapes without retracing your steps.


Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Zutphen: