Kwintelooyen

Kwintelooyen is a nature reserve on the edge of Rhenen, in the province of Utrecht, on the southeastern end of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, the ridge of hills formed by ice-age glaciers. It is a landscape of rolling hills, open meadows and woodland, and from the higher parts there are wide views across the Rhine valley and the Gelderse Vallei, the broad, flat valley to the east. For visitors to Rhenen, it provides a green escape within minutes of the town centre.

The Heuvelrug is the result of the Saale ice age, when a huge ice sheet pushed sand and gravel into a ridge as it advanced. When the ice melted, the ridge remained as a line of hills, sandy and well drained, running through the middle of the Netherlands. In the past, the poor soil was used for sheep grazing and forestry, and parts of the ridge are covered in pine and oak woodland, while other parts are open heath and meadow. The area is now a national park, protected for its nature and its beauty.

Walking is the best way to explore Kwintelooyen. Paths wind over the hills and between the fields, and some are very old tracks that have been used for centuries. Viewpoints give rewarding outlooks, especially early in the morning when mist lies over the valley and in the evening when the light turns golden. Cattle and horses sometimes graze the meadows, helping to keep the vegetation varied and open, which benefits birds and insects.

The reserve has a long human history. Prehistoric people left traces here, and the area was used by later farmers and by the owners of nearby estates. Information boards along some routes explain the geology, the ecology and the history, and it is worth taking the time to read them. The path network connects with others across the Heuvelrug, so longer hikes are possible.

Kwintelooyen is close to other sights in Rhenen, including the Sint Cunerakerk, Ouwehands Zoo, the Grebbeberg War Cemetery and the Rhine. It suits walkers, families and photographers, and it works well as a calm contrast to the zoo. Wear sturdy shoes, as paths can be muddy, and bring water.