Hoge Veluwe National Park Travel Guide: Where History, Culture, and Nature Collide

Hoge Veluwe National Park, located in the Netherlands, is a stunning natural reserve offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and world-class art. Covering 5,400 hectares, it is one of the largest continuous nature parks in the country and features heathlands, woodlands, sand dunes, and unique cycling paths.

The park is also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, which houses one of the largest Van Gogh collections in the world, blending art, nature, and history in one unforgettable destination.

📍 Top Experiences in Hoge Veluwe National Park

1️⃣ Exploring the Heathlands – A Sea of Purple

🌾 Why Visit?

The vast open heathlands turn vibrant purple in late summer (August–September).
A paradise for hikers, photographers, and wildlife enthusiasts.
Offers spectacular sunrises and sunsets over the endless fields of heather.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A red deer standing against the backdrop of blooming purple heather

🎟 Tip: Visit in August or early September to see the heathlands at their most colorful.

2️⃣ Cycling the Famous White Bikes

🚴 Why Visit?

The park offers free “white bikes” available at various entry points.
A fantastic way to explore the diverse landscapes without disturbing nature.
Over 40 km of well-marked bike trails take you through forests, dunes, and open plains.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A cyclist pedaling along a tree-lined path through the park

🎟 Tip: Pick up a white bike at the visitor center or entrance gates for a fun ride.

3️⃣ Wildlife Spotting – The Dutch Safari

🦌 Why Visit?

Home to red deer, wild boars, mouflon sheep, and foxes.
Dawn and dusk are the best times to spot wildlife.
The park offers designated wildlife observation points for nature lovers.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A wild boar family crossing a forest path

🎟 Tip: Bring binoculars for the best chance of spotting animals in the wild.

4️⃣ Kröller-Müller Museum – A Hidden Art Gem

🖼 Why Visit?

Houses one of the largest Van Gogh collections, including famous works like ‘Café Terrace at Night’.
Features masterpieces by Picasso, Mondrian, and Monet.
The outdoor sculpture garden is one of the largest in Europe.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The museum entrance framed by nature and modern sculptures

🎟 Tip: Book tickets in advance, as it is one of the most popular attractions in the park.

5️⃣ Jachthuis Sint Hubertus – The Hunting Lodge

🏰 Why Visit?

A stunning architectural masterpiece designed by Hendrik Petrus Berlage.
The former hunting retreat of the Kröller-Müller family.
Located by a beautiful lake, surrounded by forests.

📷 Photo Opportunity: The lodge reflecting in the water at sunset

🎟 Tip: Guided tours are available for those interested in architecture and history.

6️⃣ Sand Dunes & Forest Walks

🌲 Why Visit?

Experience the contrast between forests, open plains, and desert-like sand dunes.
The shifting sands of De Pollen and Mosselse Zand create unique landscapes.
Ideal for long hikes and peaceful nature walks.

📷 Photo Opportunity: Golden sand dunes surrounded by lush green trees

🎟 Tip: Try the Koningsweg hiking route, one of the most scenic trails.

7️⃣ Visitor Center & Museonder – The Underground Museum

🏛 Why Visit?

The Visitor Center is the best place to start your adventure in Hoge Veluwe.
Museonder is an underground museum showcasing the park’s geological history.
Learn about prehistoric fossils, underground life, and natural history.

📷 Photo Opportunity: Interactive exhibits inside the underground museum

🎟 Tip: Great for families and kids who love learning about nature!

8️⃣ Sunset at the Park’s Viewing Platforms

🌅 Why Visit?

The park has several lookout points, offering stunning sunset views.
Ideal for photographers, couples, and nature lovers.
The changing colors of the landscape create a magical atmosphere.

📷 Photo Opportunity: A fiery sunset over the heathlands

🎟 Tip: Bring a thermos of tea or coffee and enjoy the peaceful evening.

🚆 How to Get to & Around Hoge Veluwe National Park

✈ By Air:

The closest airports are Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS) and Eindhoven Airport (EIN).

🚆 By Train:

Take a train to Arnhem or Ede-Wageningen, then a bus or taxi to the park entrance.

🚍 By Bus:

Buses connect Arnhem to Otterlo, where the park’s main entrance is located.

🚲 By Bike:

Biking is the best way to explore the park, with free white bikes available.

🚶 By Foot:

Many trails and scenic spots are best explored on foot.

🌦 Best Time to Visit Hoge Veluwe National Park

🌸 Spring (March–May): Best for wildflowers, blooming trees, and mild weather.
☀ Summer (June–August): Great for cycling and hiking, with long daylight hours.
🍂 Autumn (September–November): Best for vibrant fall colors and deer mating season.
❄ Winter (December–February): Ideal for peaceful snowy landscapes and frosty hikes.

🕰 Opening Hours: The park is open daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.

🍽 What to Eat Near Hoge Veluwe National Park

✅ Dutch Pancakes (Pannenkoeken) – Traditional large pancakes with sweet or savory toppings.
✅ Stroopwafels – Crispy waffle cookies with caramel syrup inside.
✅ Erwtensoep (Dutch Pea Soup) – A thick and hearty winter soup.
✅ Wild Game Dishes – Try venison or wild boar at nearby restaurants.
✅ Dutch Apple Pie (Appeltaart) – A warm and delicious dessert served with whipped cream.