Attractions and Places To See in Gelderland - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see in Gelderland include a diverse array of natural landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences within the Netherlands' largest province. The region features expansive national parks, historic cities, and architectural landmarks. Visitors can explore vast nature reserves, ancient castles, and renowned museums. Gelderland offers varied opportunities for outdoor activities and cultural discovery.
Best attractions and places to see in Gelderland
- The most popular attractions is Veluwezoom National Park, a forest and natural monument known for its diverse landscapes. This park features forests, heaths, sand drifts, and estates, offering numerous hiking trails and beautiful views.
- Another must-see spot is Radio Kootwijk, a man-made monument with historical significance. This former radio station is a unique and monumental building, notable for its imposing architecture and its role in early 20th-century communication.
- Visitors also love Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg, a historical site and natural monument. Climbing this 75.9 meter high hill rewards visitors with panoramic views of wooded areas and meadows, and it holds historical significance as the site of an 11th-century motte castle.
- Gelderland is known for its national parks, historical sites, and cultural venues. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from nature reserves to ancient castles and museums.
- The attractions in Gelderland are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 5700 highlights and over 340 photos shared by visitors. These spots have received more than 1600 upvotes, indicating their general appeal.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg
Highlight • Historical Site
There are many stories about the history of De Duivelsberg. For example, in the 11th century it was the strategic location of a motte (wooden) castle called Mergelp. From the first motte on the edge of De Duivelsberg it was easy to keep an eye on the surroundings.
In addition, the hill has a sacred meaning for many and is still used for ceremonies. There are also stories that women who were accused of being witches, were drowned and bandaged in this place.
This area originally belonged to Germany and was called Wylerberg or Teufelsberg, but was annexed after the Second World War. Unlike the other areas, the Duivelsberg was not returned, but it is still Dutch land property.
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Bocholter Aa River Path
Highlight • Cycleway
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Idyllic spot in the Buskersbos
Highlight • Bridge
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Posbank Viewpoint
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Bredevoort Book Town
Highlight • Settlement
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Veluwezoom National Park
Highlight • Forest
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Den Helder Watermill
Highlight • Monument
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Radio Kootwijk
Highlight • Monument
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Bataaf Mill, Winterswijk
Highlight • Monument
About 30 years after their construction, they were extended by a sawmill and a steam engine. These enhancements gave way to more advanced technologies over the years. The mill was preserved and was restored twice in the late 20th century.
Since 1990, the mill has been operating again and again and grinding exclusively with wind power.
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Mondrian Cycle Route-Stop 1: Forest landscape with stream
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Popular around Gelderland
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Pilgrim Trail (LAW 7-1) - Through idyllic villages and vast polders
Veluwe Zwerfpad – 21 days of roaming through protected nature
Trekvogelpad (LAW 2) – Bird watching from Bergen aan Zee to Enschede
The Pieterpad by bike – From Pieterburen to Sint-Pietersberg
Maarten van Rossumpad – hiking from 's-Hertogenbosch to Steenwijk
Cycling the LF Zuiderzee Route – Delve into history around IJsselmeer lake
LF Maasroute – From Maastricht to Rotterdam along the Meuse River
Gravel, heather & hills – bikepacking the Utrecht Ridge and the Veluwe
The Rhine Cycle Path — From the source to the North Sea
Other adventures in Gelderland
Tips from the Community
Great location, very friendly service. The food and coffee are highly recommended.
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Definitely a stopover, good food but also extremely crowded when the weather is nice
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A super nice excursion destination
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bite and kick
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Lots going on at the weekend.
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Climb the 75.9 meter high Duivelsberg and you will be rewarded with a beautiful view of the wooded area and the meadows of the floodplains below the moraine. The Duivelsberg nature reserve of the same name is approximately 125 hectares in size and is covered with deciduous trees, including a large collection of sweet chestnuts. There are many stories about the history of De Duivelsberg. For example, in the 11th century it was the strategic location of a motte (wooden) castle called Mergelp. From the first motte on the edge of De Duivelsberg it was easy to keep an eye on the surroundings. In addition, the hill has a sacred meaning for many and is still used for ceremonies. There are also stories that women who were accused of being witches, were drowned and bandaged in this place. This area originally belonged to Germany and was called Wylerberg or Teufelsberg, but was annexed after the Second World War. Unlike the other areas, the Duivelsberg was not returned, but it is still Dutch land property.
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THE ORIGINAL DEVIL MOUNTAIN After Christianization, this holy place was given the name Duivelsberg and much later this name was attributed to the larger of the two motte hills. Presumably the original Duivelsberg or Zonneberg is a hill located near the pancake restaurant the Witches' Dance in the forest of Berg en Dal. This hill is visibly artificially raised. Behind the hill, a flat, open area has been created. This clearing is easily accessible from the path and today there is a huge beech in the middle. It is a beautiful place whose power and holiness are still palpable. Various shamanic and pagan groups still use this ancient sacred site for their rituals and celebrations. Source: devilsberg.nl
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SACRED FOREST Another special aspect of Devil's Mountain is that it was considered a sacred forest for our ancestors. In the villages of Beek-Ubbergen and Berg en Dal there are two hills named Maanberg and Sterrenberg; it is likely that one of the hills in the forest was once Mount Zonneberg. Wikipedia
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore in Gelderland?
Gelderland is home to diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Veluwezoom National Park, known for its forests, heaths, and sand drifts, offering numerous hiking trails and beautiful views. Another highlight is the vast De Hoge Veluwe National Park, where you can spot wildlife and find the Kröller-Müller Museum. Don't miss the Posbank Viewpoint within Veluwezoom for stunning vistas, or the historic Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg, which offers panoramic views of wooded areas and meadows.
Are there historical sites or castles to visit in Gelderland?
Yes, Gelderland boasts a rich history with several notable landmarks. Explore Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn, a former royal palace with restored interiors and gardens. Loevestein Castle, a historic fortress crucial to the Dutch Waterline, offers interactive family activities. Other castles open to visitors include Cannenburch, Doorwerth, Ammersoyen, Hernen, and Rosendael. The unique architectural landmark Radio Kootwijk, a former radio station, also offers a glimpse into early 20th-century communication history.
What are some family-friendly activities in Gelderland?
Families will find plenty to do. Loevestein Castle provides interactive experiences like learning about muskets and exploring secret staircases. In Arnhem, Burgers' Zoo recreates different ecosystems, while Apenheul Primate Park allows monkeys to roam freely. The Dolfinarium in Harderwijk offers marine animal shows. The Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem is also a great option, showcasing Dutch history and traditions through historical houses and farms.
Where can I find good hiking trails in Gelderland?
Gelderland offers numerous hiking opportunities, especially within its national parks. Veluwezoom National Park is particularly popular for its diverse trails. For more specific routes, you can explore options like the NS Veluwezoom Trail or the walking route around Rosendael Castle. You can find more detailed hiking guides, including those with waterfalls or easy trails, on komoot's dedicated pages for waterfall hikes and easy hikes in Gelderland.
Are there cycling routes available in Gelderland?
Yes, Gelderland is excellent for cycling. The Veluwe region, including De Hoge Veluwe National Park, offers extensive paths with free bicycles available for use. The Bocholter Aa River Path is a wonderful bike path through varied river landscapes. For mountain biking enthusiasts, there are dedicated MTB trails, such as the Veluwezoom Blue MTB Main Route or the Ede Red MTB Trail. Discover more cycling adventures on komoot's MTB Trails in Gelderland guide.
What are some cultural attractions or museums in Gelderland?
Gelderland has a rich cultural scene. The Kröller-Müller Museum, located within Hoge Veluwe National Park, houses an impressive collection of modern art, including many Van Gogh paintings, and a vast sculpture garden. The Netherlands Open Air Museum in Arnhem provides a journey through Dutch history. For those interested in WWII history, the Airborne Museum Hartenstein in Oosterbeek tells the story of Operation Market Garden. Museumpark Orientalis offers a unique experience showcasing biblical lands.
What is the best time of year to visit Gelderland?
Gelderland offers beauty year-round, but spring and autumn are particularly popular. In spring, the Betuwe Fruit Region is known for its blooming orchards, creating picturesque landscapes. Autumn transforms the national parks like Veluwezoom with vibrant colors, making it ideal for hiking and enjoying the views from spots like the Posbank Viewpoint.
Are there any unique towns or cities to explore in Gelderland?
Absolutely. Nijmegen, one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, features a charming medieval center and Valkhof Park. Arnhem, the capital, has a vibrant history and landmarks like the Waalbrug. Zutphen is a historic city with the large St. Walburgiskerk, and Doesburg is another historic town along the IJssel River. For book lovers, Bredevoort Book Town is a unique destination with numerous bookstores and literary events.
What do visitors enjoy most about Gelderland's attractions?
Visitors frequently praise the diverse natural beauty, especially the untouched nature and varied landscapes of areas like Veluwezoom National Park. The historical significance of sites like Radio Kootwijk and the charm of historic towns are also highly appreciated. Many enjoy the opportunities for outdoor activities, from relaxing bike rides along the Bocholter Aa River Path to exploring the many hiking trails.
Are there any viewpoints in Gelderland offering scenic panoramas?
Yes, Gelderland offers several stunning viewpoints. The Posbank Viewpoint within Veluwezoom National Park is renowned as one of the country's most beautiful vantage points, especially during heather bloom. The Motte Mergelp on the Duivelsberg also provides rewarding panoramic views of wooded areas and meadows from its 75.9-meter height.
Can I find places to eat or relax near attractions in Gelderland?
Many attractions and towns offer facilities for dining and relaxation. For instance, Bredevoort Book Town has quaint houses, a beautiful park, and great restaurants and cafes. The Den Helder Watermill also features a restaurant. Within national parks, you might find cafes or picnic spots, and larger towns like Apeldoorn and Arnhem offer a wide range of dining options.
Are there any unique architectural landmarks in Gelderland?
Beyond the historic castles, Gelderland features unique architectural sites. Radio Kootwijk is a prime example, a monumental former radio station with imposing architecture in the middle of the Veluwe. Its unique style and history make it a fascinating visit. Additionally, historic cities like Nijmegen and Arnhem showcase diverse architectural styles, from medieval structures to post-WWII reconstruction.
Most popular routes in Gelderland
Most popular attractions in Gelderland
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