Heeten combines opportunities for outdoor activities with cultural history and an annual village festival. The “Heeten Noord” walking route covers 8 km around the village; the “Slinger van Heeten” cycling route also includes Raalte. A hand-operated canal crossing, the Germanic Room and Pony Week add to these attractions. When planning a stay, it helps to first decide on the purpose of your trip: would you like to focus on a walk or cycle ride, arrange a visit to the exhibition, or travel for the village festival?

Walking, cycling and paths along the canal

The “Heeten Noord” walking route is 8 km long and goes around Heeten. The “Slinger van Heeten” cycling route runs around Heeten and Raalte in Salland, Overijssel. The two options therefore differ in both mode of travel and geographical scope: Heeten Noord circles Heeten, while the Slinger also includes Raalte.

The Slinger follows winding, partly paved paths, through wooded areas and fields, and along the canal; the landscape is slightly hilly in places. When choosing a route, both the place names and the terrain and landscape are therefore relevant. The 8 km distance, by contrast, applies to the Heeten Noord walking route.

The Jaagpad runs mostly along the canal on the former towpath. A towpath was a waterside path used for pulling boats; the Jaagpad also offers a glimpse into the canal’s former use. The paths maintained by Stichting Wandel- & Fietspaden Heeten e.o. include a hand-operated ferry across the Overijssels Kanaal. Since 2012, it has connected the Jaagpad with the Schot Beumerpad.

Cultural history and Pony Week

At KulturhusTrefpunt Heeten, the Germanic Room presents finds, 3D images, animations and film footage about the Germanic people in Heeten. The different media offer various ways of exploring the subject. Visits are only possible by prior appointment, so arrange your visit in advance if you plan to see the Germanic Room.

Another connection with the village’s history goes back to the Roman-Germanic period: Heeten had a thriving iron industry. The Germanic Room focuses on the Germanic people in Heeten; the iron industry is another historical aspect that adds to the story of the village.

Pony Week, held annually, is Heeten’s largest village festival. Events include an agricultural day, a flea market and a pop festival. The festival thus brings together different kinds of events: agriculture, a market and music. Since Pony Week is held annually, it can be a specific reason to travel; the exact festival dates matter when planning a visit. Check the dates in advance before arranging your stay specifically around the village festival in Heeten.

Discover more destinations: Nieuw-Heeten, Luttenberg, Heino, Raalte, Broekland, Laag Zuthem

Go to the main travel overview: Raalte.