Top 20 Natural Monuments in Veluwe
Best natural monuments in Veluwe are found within a forest-rich ridge of hills in Gelderland, Netherlands. This region is characterized by diverse natural landscapes, including woodlands, heathlands, and expansive sand drifts. Formed by glacial activity, the Veluwe offers unique features and ecological significance. Visitors can explore a variety of natural formations and protected areas.
Best natural monuments in Veluwe
- The most popular natural monuments is Veluwezoom National Park, a forest that features almost untouched nature with forests, heaths, and sand drifts. The park is known for its relief, offering visitors beautiful views.
- Another must-see spot is Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes, a natural monument featuring a large field of quicksand. This area offers a unique landscape with dry forests and is grazed by sheep.
- Visitors also love Staverden Castle, a castle with a beautifully landscaped park. The estate and castle have a long history, with the current building dating from 1905.
- Veluwe is known for its diverse natural monuments, including forests, heathlands, sand drifts, and viewpoints. The region offers a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from expansive parks to unique geological formations.
- The natural monuments in Veluwe are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 5000 upvotes and over 1400 photos shared.
Last updated: April 28, 2026
Posbank Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Veluwezoom National Park
Highlight • Forest
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes
Highlight • Natural Monument
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Staverden Castle
Highlight • Castle
The estate and castle have a long history. The counts of Gelderland (later dukes) probably had a court in Staverden as early as the 12th century. In 1299 Count Reinald I obtained city rights from the Emperor. But it never came to a real urban development.
It was probably never the intention that Staverden became a real city. This is apparent from the wording of the granting of the city rights. A research report into the cultural history of Staverden states that the rights granted to Staverden differ greatly from the city rights granted to Gelderland cities at the time. It is stipulated that, in addition to the 'free people', serfs and ministerials or servants may also live there. It can be concluded that we should not regard medieval Staverden as a regular city (to be founded), but as an agricultural settlement with certain legal characteristics of a city. The confirmation of the rights is probably related to the fact that the Count of Gelre is busy increasing his influence on the Veluwe at that time.
Early times
The six preserved burial mounds on the west and east edges of the stream valley show that people were already present in the Staverden area around 4000 years ago. The valley and its surroundings are continuously adapted to the needs of the residents. The stream was used to power water mills. In the stream valley, loam was extracted to bake bricks. Farms were built with fields and large plots of coppice.
Nineteenth and twentieth centuries
From the 19th century, Staverden developed rapidly. Land was reclaimed, roads were constructed or improved and two new farms were built. The aim of the owners was to make Staverden self-sufficient again as a modern agricultural and forestry company, as the estate had functioned for centuries.
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Loenen Waterfall
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments in Veluwe.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Veluwe
Veluwe Zwerfpad – 21 days of roaming through protected nature
Trekvogelpad (LAW 2) – Bird watching from Bergen aan Zee to Enschede
Maarten van Rossumpad – hiking from 's-Hertogenbosch to Steenwijk
Gravel, heather & hills – bikepacking the Utrecht Ridge and the Veluwe
Cycling weekend through forest and heath – Deelerwoud and Veluwezoom
Wild Spotting on the heath - The Deelerwoud and Veluwezoom route
Five beautiful gravel routes from Natural Campsites
5x Cycling among the falling leaves in Gelderland
In the middle of nature - 20 accessible routes in Gelderland
Discover Gelderland in a wheelchair – 7 tours through nature
Other adventures in Veluwe
Tips from the Community
The castle has changed its appearance in many ways over the centuries. The current building dates from 1905 and was built by Herman Theodore s'Jacob, the scion of a noble family. His father Frederik Bernhard was mayor of Rotterdam and his grandfather was governor of the Dutch East Indies. The architecture goes back to older styles, but the interior still contains features of the Art Nouveau style that was popular at the time. The rest of the estate is still largely intact and the castle garden has also been restored with honor.
17
0
Before 1830, the Beekhuizerzand was part of a large quicksand area. Between 1880 and 1930, it was planted with pine trees on a large scale, especially to prevent dusting. It was also used as a military training area and opened for recreation from 1963. In 2004, many fly pines were felled and the top layer removed from the ground, so that it has become a real quicksand area where the destructible sand has been released again. The area is grazed by sheep.
16
0
The waterfall we see here has a drop of 15 meters. The Vrijenberger Spreng Waterfalls, as they are officially called, are the largest two waterfalls in the Netherlands. The Vrijenbergse Spreng was dug at the end of the 19th century so that the water level of the Apeldoorn Canal could be maintained. Due to the large difference in height in the spring, two waterfalls were constructed instead of a very strong flowing river.
2
0
A smaller version of 'the largest waterfall in the Netherlands'. The 'real' one is a little further on, on the other side of the N-road ;-)
3
0
Staverden Castle has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The current castle, partly built in 1853 and partly in 1905, is surrounded by a beautiful estate. The brasserie and brewery located on the estate are also nice. Good place to take a break!
3
0
One of the beautiful quicksand areas in the region - although not really natural, but it's worth it as you don't find something like that often.
10
0
Veluwezoom is the oldest national park in Holland. This hilly landscape with forest, heath and shifting sand has been a protected area since 1931. You can wander freely on the paths and trails and there are plenty of opportunities for horseback riding, cycling and mountain biking. Don't be surprised if you suddenly come face to face with a red deer or a wild boar on the Veluwezoom.
27
1
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments in Veluwe?
The Veluwe offers several highly regarded natural monuments. Veluwezoom National Park is particularly popular, known for its diverse landscapes including forests, heaths, and sand drifts, and its significant relief offering beautiful views. Another favorite is Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes, a unique large field of quicksand with dry forests. Visitors also appreciate Posbank Viewpoint for its panoramic vistas.
When is the best time to visit the natural monuments in Veluwe?
The Veluwe is beautiful year-round, but for vibrant colors, late summer to early autumn (August and September) is ideal when the heather blooms a stunning purple, especially around Posbank. Spring offers fresh greenery and blooming wildflowers, while winter can provide serene, quiet walks, particularly in areas like Deelerwoud.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments in Veluwe?
Yes, many natural monuments in Veluwe are suitable for families. Veluwezoom National Park and Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes are great choices, offering varied landscapes for exploration. The Kootwijkerzand, with its vast sand plains, is also a favorite spot for children to play. Additionally, Loenen Waterfall is a popular and accessible destination for all ages.
What unique natural features can I expect to see in Veluwe?
The Veluwe is characterized by its diverse natural features. You'll find expansive forests, vast heathlands that turn purple in late summer, and significant sand drifts like the Beekhuizerzand Sand Dunes and Kootwijkerzand, which offer almost desert-like landscapes. The region also features rolling hills, particularly around Posbank Viewpoint, providing impressive panoramic views.
What kind of wildlife can be spotted around Veluwe's natural monuments?
The Veluwe is rich in wildlife. In areas like De Hoge Veluwe National Park (which encompasses many natural monuments), you have good chances of spotting red deer, wild boar, mouflon, and roe deer. The diverse habitats, from dense forests to open heathlands, support a wide array of bird species and smaller mammals.
Are there less crowded natural monuments in Veluwe for a more tranquil experience?
For a more tranquil experience away from larger crowds, consider visiting Deelerwoud. This area offers the quintessential Veluwe landscape with rolling terrain, extensive forests, and endless heather fields, but generally sees fewer tourists, making it ideal for peaceful enjoyment of the scenery.
What outdoor activities can I do near the natural monuments in Veluwe?
The Veluwe offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can explore extensive hiking trails, such as those found in the Hiking in Veluwe guide, including routes like the 'Kootwijkerzand and Radio Kootwijk Loop'. Cycling is also very popular, with many dedicated paths, and mountain biking enthusiasts can find challenging trails, for example, in the MTB Trails in Veluwe guide.
Are there specific hiking trails near the natural monuments in Veluwe?
Yes, numerous hiking trails traverse the natural monuments. For instance, you can find trails around Veluwezoom National Park, including routes that lead to Posbank Viewpoint. The Kootwijkerzand also offers excellent walking opportunities. For more options, consult the Hiking in Veluwe guide, which features routes like 'On safari in Planken Wambuis nature reserve'.
Can I visit historical or cultural sites near the natural monuments?
Yes, the Veluwe blends natural beauty with historical elements. Staverden Castle is a notable example, featuring a beautifully landscaped park and a long history, with the current building dating from 1905. The monumental Radio Kootwijk building, a former broadcasting station from the 1920s, also stands near the Kootwijkerzand, offering a striking cultural contrast to the natural landscape.
Are dogs allowed on trails around the natural monuments?
Many areas within the Veluwe are dog-friendly, but regulations can vary by specific natural monument or national park. It's generally advisable to keep dogs on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure a pleasant experience for all visitors. Loenen Waterfall is listed as a dog-friendly highlight.
What do komoot visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments in Veluwe?
Komoot visitors frequently praise the diverse and untouched nature, the stunning views from elevated points like Posbank Viewpoint, and the excellent opportunities for both cycling and hiking. The unique landscapes, such as the sand drifts and vast heathlands, are often highlighted, along with the chance to spot wildlife. The relief of areas like Veluwezoom National Park is also a common point of appreciation.
Are there any waterfalls to visit in the Veluwe region?
Yes, the Veluwe is home to the Loenen Waterfall, which is part of the Vrijenberger Spreng. While it might not be a dramatic plunge, it is considered one of the largest waterfalls in the Netherlands, with the stream dropping 15 meters over 2 km. It's a beautiful and popular destination, often included in local hiking routes.
Most popular routes in Veluwe
Most popular attractions in Veluwe
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones in Veluwe:
