Burgers' Zoo (Nearby Excursion)

Winterswijk, in the Achterhoek in the far east of Gelderland, is a quiet town of walking trails, fossil quarries and country estates, and its visitors sometimes plan a day trip to Burgers' Zoo in Arnhem, about thirty kilometres away as the crow flies. In practice the journey takes somewhat longer by road, and it makes a full-day excursion that suits families with children. Seen from Winterswijk, the zoo makes a full day out that works in almost any season.

The zoo is one of the largest in the Netherlands, covering around forty-five hectares of woodland, gardens and themed halls. Its star attractions are the big indoor habitats. The rainforest hall recreates a tropical jungle with a warm, humid climate, and the ocean aquarium holds millions of litres of water and allows visitors to walk through a tunnel with fish and sharks swimming around them. The desert hall recreates arid landscapes, with vultures and other animals of dry regions, and the mangrove hall presents a tidal forest. Because these halls are indoors, a day at the zoo is possible in almost any weather.

Planning a visit from the Achterhoek requires a little organisation. Drive time, parking and ticket arrangements matter, and online booking is recommended, especially on weekends and school holidays when the zoo is busiest. Opening hours are longer in summer than in winter, so check them, and allow a full day to see the main sights. Take a picnic or plan to eat in one of the zoo's restaurants. A raincoat is wise for the outdoor parts, and comfortable shoes are essential.

A day in Arnhem can be combined with other sights. The Dutch Open Air Museum, which shows historic buildings and crafts from across the country, is close to the zoo, and the Liberation Route and the historic city walk tell the story of the Battle of Arnhem. The nearby Hoge Veluwe national park, with its Kröller-Müller Museum, also makes a good outing from the Achterhoek, and Kasteel Ruurlo is within reach in the other direction.

The excursion suits families with children, school groups and animal lovers. Winterswijk's tourist office, in the old town hall, can advise on travel and combined days out. Start early to avoid traffic and to see the animals when they are most active.