Veluwezoom National Park

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Veluwezoom National Park is located in the province of Gelderland which is situated on the eastern side of central Netherlands. The park covers an area of 19 square miles (50 sq km).

Veluwezoom was the first national park established in the Netherlands protecting the southeastern portion of the Veluwe. The Veluwe is a dense forest ridge of hills that expand beyond the national park borders displaying an array of woodland, heath, lakes, and sand drift landscapes.

The elevation is markedly high from Netherlands ’ perspective reaching heights as much as 360.9 feet (110 m) above sea level. The vegetation is comprised mostly of forests, heathland, and sand drifts. This ecosystem supports the wildlife of the area.

Some of the most popular wildlife species include badger, European pine marten, red deer, and the wild boar.

Veluwezoom also provides a taste of Netherland history and culture with a series of country houses, remarkable estates, and stunning farmlands scattered amongst the national park boundaries.

Photos

Veluwezoom National Park flowering hills

Veluwezoom National Park rolling purple hills

Highlights

The national park represents the country’s oldest commitment to protected areas recognizing the beauty and value of the ecosystem that makes up the area of Veluwezoom. The terrain is some of the highest elevations amongst the country

Prosbank

The Prosbank is a 295.3-feet (90 m) high hill that is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the park. Once you reach the top of the hill, you will be rewarded with astounding panoramic views of the national park landscapes. You can see as far as 12.4 miles (20 km) across the park terrain.

Red Deer Mating

The red deer mating season occurs between the months of September and October. The males seek to attract females with their vocal roaring. There are two wildlife observation posts that provide opportunities to observe the animals without interference.

You may also experience the roaring mating ritual of the red deer while hiking on the trails. It is best to check in with the visitor center to consult which trails have the best chances during your specific visit.

Cultural Settlements

In the south part of the national park, visitors will have an opportunity to drive past and hike along trails that provide views of striking old estates, exquisite and quaint country homes, and enchanting old farms.

Beekhuizen, Heuven, and Rhereroord are three separate country houses that are accompanied by parks and serve as a taste of both history and culture for those who opt to visit these captivating estates.

Veluwezoom National Park Trails

Veluwezoom is not a mountainous area and there is a minimal elevation gain. Hiking is a popular activity with a nice variety of trails ranging from easy to moderate. Hiking is one of the best ways to experience the national park.

Imboschweg Loop Trail

This trail travels a loop through Imboschweg, Velperweg, Terletseweg, and Koninsweg. The loop trail covers a distance of 9.1 miles (14.6 km). The trail is partially paved and rated as easy and family-friendly. The trail meanders through fields and forests providing views of the area along the way.

Veluwezoom Small Loop Trail

This is a short 2.2-mile (3.54 km) loop trail that walks through the forest providing opportunities for birdwatching and possible wildlife sightings. The trail is rated easy and family-friendly.

Veluwezoom Loop Trail

This loop trail meanders a path over 12.6 miles (20.28 km) traveling alongside fields, wildflowers, and through the forest. Birdwatching is popular with chances of seeing other wildlife. The accumulative elevation gain is 1,420 feet (432.8 m).

De Elsberg Loop Trail

This is a family-friendly trek with an accumulative elevation gain of 800 feet (243.8 m) while meandering a loop over 7.5 miles (12.07 km). The trek travels through forests and alongside fields with a chance to see wildlife. The trail is rated moderate.

Posbank Loop Trail

This is a long loop trail covering a distance of 33.1 miles (53.27 km) with an accumulative elevation gain of 1,889 feet (579.77 m). The path is partially paved and rated moderate. The trek meanders along a river, through the forest, and past wildflowers. Birdwatching is a common activity along with chances to see other wildlife.

Park Protection

As the oldest national park in the Netherlands, Veluwezoom National Park was created to protect the push moraine and forest ecosystem that supports the wildlife of the area. The European pine marten is extremely rare in the region and efforts must be taken to protect its habitat and chances for survival.