Heiloo can be explored through two layers of time: the landscape predates the early village. The town lies on a long, raised sandy ridge formed by an old beach barrier, which developed parallel to the coastline around 2000 BCE. The early village of Heiloo arose around the year 700 around a small church that preceded the Witte Kerk. The geological formation of the sandy ridge and the early history of the town are therefore separated by a long period of time.
Pilgrimage, castle history and culture
Onze Lieve Vrouw ter Nood is the largest Marian pilgrimage site in the Netherlands; the history of the shrine dates back to the late 14th century. In the forecourt of the Genadekapel is a well whose water is traditionally considered to have healing properties. The history of Ter Coulster Hof also leads back to an earlier chapter in Heiloo: the estate stands on part of the former castle grounds. Remains of the old castle’s foundations and moat have been preserved there.
The Cultuur Koepel is located on the Landgoed Willibrordus estate. This Rijksmonument offers a cultural programme of music, theatre, dance, film and literature. The VVV-Heiloo information point is also on the grounds, in the Verhalenkamer. Both the cultural programme and tourist information are based on the estate.
Exhibitions and local monuments
The permanent exhibition at the Historisch Museum Heiloo presents the history of the town from the 8th century onwards. It features documents, photographs, films, maps, objects and stories. The museum also organises historical walking and cycling tours around the town. The exhibition and tours offer different ways to discover Heiloo through its history.
The Heiloo municipal cemetery is open daily throughout the year; entry is prohibited after sunset. The old section of Heiloo’s general cemetery on Holleweg is designated a municipal monument. The Kattenberg, a hill with a lime tree more than 300 years old, is also located in a wood near Heiloo.
On foot or by bike
A family-friendly walking route leads through the woodland of the historic Landgoed Nijenburg estate and starts in Heiloo; dogs are also welcome. As route details may change when it is updated, check the current route description before setting out. This will help you plan your walk using the latest route information.
For cycling trips, routes of 20, 40 or 60 kilometres through the surrounding area are available from the Het Oesdom tea house and shop. The three distances let you choose the length of your ride. Another option is the Landgoederenroute Heiloo, marked with sea-green arrows in both directions.
Getting your bearings
Heiloo railway station is conveniently located near the town’s pleasant centre. The station’s position relative to the centre is therefore a useful point of reference when arriving. For information during your stay, visit the VVV-Heiloo information point in the Verhalenkamer on the grounds of Landgoed Willibrordus.
For the general travel overview: Heiloo.
