Oldebroek brings together landscapes that at first glance offer very different impressions: Veluwe forests and heathland, dune ridges, springs, streams and drifting sands are all part of the area, as is the transition to the IJssel and a rural cultural landscape. Visitors can explore natural areas, hiking and cycling routes, and historic places.
Heathland paths and open bird meadows
The Wezepsche Heide covers 260 hectares and offers hiking and cycling routes. An entrance near Wezep railway station is the starting point for many routes. The area is accessible between sunrise and sunset. If your planned visit is close to either of these times, check access locally.
In the De Vuursteenberg nature area, a 2.5-kilometre red-marked walking trail passes through heathland and woodland. At the IJsselvliedt estate, you can choose between two marked trails: the IJsselvliedt trail is 4.2 kilometres long and marked red, while the ’t Vinkennest trail is 2.3 kilometres long and marked blue. The distances allow for a direct comparison without implying that the two trails are the same.
The Polder Oosterwolde has a different character: its open grassland, with few trees, is a meadow bird area that provides a habitat for birds and other animals. Meadow birds found there include lapwing, black-tailed godwit, common redshank, whimbrel and Eurasian oystercatcher. With a little luck, you may also spot white-tailed eagles. Which species you actually see can vary depending on the season and natural conditions.
Walking and cycling with different highlights
For a longer walk, the 16-kilometre, red-marked Het Vreepad klompenpad trail runs through Oldebroek. Its highlights include estates, agricultural landscapes and woodland. The also purple-marked Het Wiseperpad klompenpad trail is 17 kilometres long and runs through Wezep and Hattemerbroek; woodland and heathland are among its highlights. The distances are similar, while the landscapes mentioned and the routes differ.
You can also focus on history while cycling. The WO2 Oldebroek cycling route is more than 42 kilometres long and can be started at any point. It leads to various Second World War sites in the municipality of Oldebroek, including crash sites, hiding places, streets named after people who were killed, and other notable locations. If you are planning a cycling trip, the municipality of Oldebroek offers various bicycle rental categories: unisex bicycles, electric bicycles, tandems, electric cargo bikes and bicycles with child seats. Confirm availability and rental terms in advance.
Mills and farm history
The De Hoop mill in Oldebroek was built by Kornelis Blaauw in 1853. Following its restoration, it serves three functions: grinding grain, sprouting barley and pressing oil. Visits are possible when the blue flag is flying; at those times, the miller offers a tour and explains how the mill works. Check whether the flag is flying before setting out.
At the Boerderijmuseum De Bovenstreek, you can see a fully furnished farmhouse dating from 1756, its farmyard with outbuildings, and ornamental and kitchen gardens, including an orchard. The collection includes thousands of exhibits and household items from around 1800 to 1950. Activities for children include dressing up, a treasure hunt, playing in a real haystack and traditional Dutch games; check what is currently available before your visit.
Water, orchards and other experiences
Canoes and kayaks may pass through the Reevesluis into the Reevediep; passage may depend on local operating conditions. There is also an approximately five-kilometre historic route for canoeing and kayaking. It takes 1.5 to 2 hours and uses a map to guide you to historic sites. This water activity is seasonal and depends on the provider.
At Fruittuin Verbeek, visitors can pick their own fruit in the orchard from late June to late October. Check the current picking dates before planning your visit. The facilities also include an orchard café and, in good weather, a spacious terrace overlooking the orchard; check these visiting conditions in advance, too. If you would like to go swimming, De Veldkamp swimming pool has a 25-metre sports pool and a leisure pool. It is best to check the latest information about the facility before setting out.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Oldebroek, Wezep, 'T Loo, Noordeinde, Ede, Lingewaard, Voorst, Renkum.
For the broader travel overview: Gelderland.
