In Druten, walking trails, nature along the Waal and tangible traces of local history can all be combined. The “Het Achtje van Druten” circular walking route is eight kilometres long and follows a figure-eight through Druten, with reminders along the way of water, clay extraction, and the brick and roof-tile industry. It also passes monuments and sights connected with the heavy-clay industry. This brings the history of the industry to life along a specific walking route, rather than presenting it merely as a standalone topic.
Getting around on foot and by bike
At the starting points of the Druten walking network, information boards provide walking maps and details about routes and sights. This helps you get your bearings before setting off and consider which route suits your interests. The Achtje offers a clearly defined circular walk with a stated distance and shape.
The cycling route through Drutens Bosje offers a different way to find your way around: between junctions 12 and 92, it forms part of the national cycling route network. The difference is clear when choosing between the two options: the circular walk is specified as eight kilometres in the shape of a figure eight, while the cycling route is identified within the cycling network by its junctions. Another regional cycling tour, “Cultuurhistorie in het Land van Maas en Waal”, leads to cultural and historical sights in the area around Druten and West Maas en Waal.
The Waal and nature spots
Veerdam is located on the northern side of Druten, right on the Waal. The surrounding area is ideal for walking, cycling and exploring nature. During the summer months, a bicycle and passenger ferry runs from Veerdam to Dodewaard. If you plan to take the ferry, check the latest service details before travelling.
Heemtuin Druten is a lovely place for a walk or a picnic. It preserves characteristic plants, shrubs and trees that are native to the Gelders river region. This connects a visit to the local natural landscape with a tangible link to regional vegetation. Another natural highlight is the Afferdense en Deestse Waarden, a nature reserve on the Waal near Druten. Heemtuin focuses on native plants, while the Afferdense en Deestse Waarden is described as a protected area on the Waal.
Architectural history and places of remembrance
At the Ambtshuis, architectural history intersects with the former judicial system. The building probably dates from the 16th century; it was extensively remodelled in 1758 and altered a second time around 1840. Also in 1758, the Ambtshuis became a courthouse after the courts of Wamel and Bergharen were merged into a single court in Druten. It also preserves a stucco group featuring allegorical figures representing the Maas and Waal, created by J. M. Rieff.
The present-day H.H. Ewaldenkerk was built between 1874 and 1877 to a design by Pierre Cuypers. Its stained-glass windows were made by stained-glass artist Frans Nicolas. Another way to explore local history is the De Engelbewaarder war memorial, which commemorates the evacuation of girls with intellectual disabilities from Druten in May 1940. Metropole Druten is a car museum and offers a distinct perspective on automobiles.
Finding your way around
The Tourist Information Point Druten, located in the Bondsgebouw, provides information about sights and activities in the municipality of Druten and also houses a Historical Information Point. As the services available may change, check the latest information before visiting. Work is also under way in the Bondsgebouw at Kattenburg 27 on an accessible centre that will present historical information about Druten’s Roman Catholic church in connection with Pierre Cuypers. The planned content may still evolve.
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