Hoenderloo

Hoenderloo, nestled on the southwestern edge of the Veluwe, is a charming village that serves as a prime base for exploring one of the Netherlands’ most celebrated natural regions. The village’s history is closely tied to the development of the Veluwe, a vast area of forests, heath, and sand dunes that has long attracted visitors seeking tranquility and outdoor recreation. Hoenderloo itself grew from a small rural settlement into a welcoming community, catering to travelers and holidaymakers drawn by the beauty of the surrounding landscape.

The main attraction near Hoenderloo is the Hoge Veluwe National Park, a sprawling reserve that covers over 5,400 hectares and is famous for its diverse habitats and abundant wildlife. The park is crisscrossed by a network of well-marked hiking and cycling trails, with free white bicycles available at entrances and throughout the park. Visitors can explore open heathlands, dense pine forests, and shifting sand dunes, encountering red deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species along the way. The park’s visitor centers provide maps, information, and guided tours for those wishing to learn more about the area’s ecology and history.

A cultural highlight within the park is the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses an outstanding collection of modern art, including the world’s second-largest assemblage of Van Gogh paintings. The museum’s sculpture garden is set amidst the woods and is a destination in its own right, featuring works by renowned artists in a serene natural setting. Another notable site is Jachthuis Sint Hubertus, a striking hunting lodge designed by architect Hendrik Petrus Berlage, which offers guided tours and insight into early 20th-century Dutch architecture and aristocratic life.

Hoenderloo itself is a peaceful village with a selection of cafes, restaurants, and accommodations ranging from cozy bed-and-breakfasts to family-friendly holiday parks. The Veluwe Specialist Hoenderloo offers bike rentals and organizes outdoor activities such as guided cycling tours, horseback riding, and nature walks. The village is also close to other regional attractions, including Burgers’ Zoo, Apenheul primate park, and the Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem.

Getting to Hoenderloo is straightforward by car, with good road connections from Apeldoorn, Arnhem, and the wider Gelderland region. Public transport options include regional buses from Apeldoorn and Ede, though a car or bicycle provides the most flexibility for exploring the area. The village’s flat terrain and extensive trail network make it ideal for cycling and walking.

The best time to visit Hoenderloo is from mid-May to mid-September, when the weather is mild and the Veluwe’s landscapes are at their most vibrant. Summer brings blooming heath, long daylight hours, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities, while spring and autumn offer quieter trails and colorful scenery. Winters are peaceful, with the possibility of frosty mornings and serene forest walks.

Whether you are drawn by art, nature, or the relaxed pace of Dutch village life, Hoenderloo offers a memorable and restorative escape in the heart of the Veluwe.