Open polders, birdlife that changes with the seasons, and a layered urban history give Nijkerk its distinctive character. Those looking to explore the region will find both nature experiences and historic places, as well as routes to explore on foot or by bike. Two different perspectives go hand in hand: the wide-open landscape of Arkemheen and the architectural and cultural history of central Nijkerk.
Polder Landscape and Habitats
Northwest of Nijkerk lies Arkemheen, a Natura 2000 site and an important area for meadow, breeding and migratory birds. Its landscape consists of open, low-lying polders along the Randmeren lakes, including the Nijkerkerpolder. In winter, Arkemheen provides habitat for Eurasian wigeons, geese and whooper swans; in spring, species found here include northern lapwings, black-tailed godwits and common redshanks. The changing mix of birdlife makes the season an important consideration for nature enthusiasts, though individual sightings cannot be planned.
Landgoed Hoevelaken can also be explored on foot or by bike. Here, dry and wet soils alternate, supporting a wide variety of plant species. Wildlife includes protected grass snakes and several bat species, including Nathusius’ pipistrelles, common pipistrelles and serotines. Arkemheen’s open polders and the estate offer different nature experiences: on one hand, a vast, low-lying landscape with seasonal bird populations; on the other, varied soils, plants and other wildlife.
Water History and Culture in the Town Centre
The Stoomgemaal Hertog Reijnout commemorates the polder’s engineering history. From 1883 to 1983, the steam pumping station operated to pump excess water out of the Arkemheen polder. The visitor centre provides information about Arkemheen, its special natural features and the role of water. It also offers a permanent exhibition, search games, a photo wall and opportunities to encounter animals typical of the polder.
In Nijkerk’s historic centre, the Grote- of St. Catharinakerk is a defining feature of the townscape. The church is a Rijksmonument, was built in 1461 and rebuilt after a town fire in 1540. Offerings include guided tours with a climb up the tower and organ concerts, including a summer concert series. Museum Nijkerk offers another perspective on the town through exhibitions, an open collection store, themed days and a library about Nijkerk. The museum also offers town walks on themes such as the Breede Beek, Jewish history and war memorials. A museum town walk takes about 90 minutes and is available with or without a guide.
Cultural discoveries also include the Streams Breede Beek theatre in central Nijkerk, where well-known artists and local talent perform, as well as walking routes to public artworks. Along the way, you can read the accompanying poems by the town poet. Check dates for guided tours and concerts, as well as the visitor centre’s current offerings, before your visit.
Routes Through Town and Countryside
Several routes offer different ways to explore the area. The Doortraproute Nijkerk is 22 kilometres long and passes through Hell, Kruishaar, ’t Woud, Appel and Slichtenhorst. Its listed starting point is P+R Zuid by Nijkerk railway station; check the route details before setting out. A walk from Hoevelaken to Nijkerk passes through Landgoed Hoevelaken and along the Barneveldse Beek. The Appelpad, in turn, is a Klompenpad route through the farmland of Nijkerk municipality, along unpaved tracks and forgotten passageways.
With nature activities, a nature-inspired artwork and a barefoot trail, Laaksepad KIDS combines exploration and exercise in the Hoevelakense Bos; along the way, there is also an opportunity to watch waterbirds. For a different way to explore the town, walking routes lead to public artworks and their accompanying poems. The routes therefore differ not only in length and course, but also in whether nature, landscape or culture is their main focus.
Out and About on the Water
Nijkerk aan het Water is located on the Randmeren lakes. Visitors can rent a boat there and travel towards Bunschoten-Spakenburg or Zeewolde. A trip on the water offers a different experience from routes through the polders and town; check in advance whether boat rentals are available.
Central Nijkerk is easily reached by public transport and by car. For help finding your way around, the VVV information centre in the Roodbeen bookshop offers cycling and walking maps, a wide selection of Klompenpad maps, free information and a town map of the centre. Check specific routes, dates and services before your visit.
Discover more destinations: Nijkerk, Hoevelaken, Nunspeet, Neerijnen, Zutphen, Groesbeek, Rijnwaarden, Elburg.
For the regional travel overview: Gelderland.
