The Baarnse Bos was created around De Eult as a star forest. This distinctive landscape history is a great introduction to discovering Baarn and its surroundings: forests and heathland sit alongside country estates, historic buildings and paths to explore on foot or by bike. The options range from a stroll in the park to longer routes through the De Vuursche forest.
Forest and Heathland Around Lage Vuursche
De Vuursche is a large forest area on a glacial ridge between Baarn, Soest, Maartensdijk and Hilversum. The village of Lage Vuursche lies at its heart. Many cycling and walking paths lead towards the village, which is one of the few castle villages in the Netherlands. Numerous former farmhouses stand along the central Dorpsstraat, creating a contrast between the forest landscape and the historic village street.
The six-kilometre Boswachterspad Stulp en Kasteeltuinroute starts at the car park near the Kuil van Drakensteyn in Lage Vuursche. From a viewpoint along the route, you can look out over the Pluismeer and its waterbirds. In winter, with a little luck, you may spot a great grey shrike on the Stulpse Heide—a seasonal possibility, not a guaranteed sighting. Before setting out, check the local information about trail markers and access.
Walks of Different Lengths
Those looking to compare walks of different lengths can choose from ten routes in and around Baarn and Lage Vuursche offered by the Historische Kring Baerne. They range from 3.5 to 15.5 kilometres. Revised versions, rechecked in 2022 and 2023, are available with GPX files; check the latest route information before setting out. Another option is the NS De Vuursche walk: you can shorten it to nine kilometres by taking bus route 59 from the Lage Vuursche (Dorp) stop to Hilversum or Den Dolder station. Check the bus timetable for this option.
For a different kind of route planning, consider the Scootmobielroute De Vuursche: it is 15 kilometres long, follows a cycle path throughout and can be shortened to cover less distance. This describes the route, not necessarily all individual requirements for using it. If you need details about the route, check them before setting out. Bicycles can be rented at Baarn station; check availability before your trip.
Country Estates, Gardens and History
Kasteel Groeneveld is an 18th-century country estate in Baarn and an example of a country house from that period. The building was constructed around 1710 in the Rococo style. Its programme includes exhibitions, concerts, debates and educational activities. The park and kitchen garden are also ideal for walks and are accessible outside opening hours, too. As access arrangements can change, check the latest information before visiting. Grand Café Groeneveld serves coffee, tea and lunch made with organic regional produce; it is also worth checking the latest information here.
Another historic landmark is Paleis Soestdijk and its surrounding estate: the ensemble is a protected national monument and was originally built in the 17th century. English-style garden design has been preserved in Baarn, with remnants of French gardens in some places. Cantonspark, now a public park, is also home to rare trees, including the handkerchief tree (Davidia involucrata), the dawn redwood (Metasequoia glyptostroboides) and the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum). The park’s history and development account for its cultural and historical value.
Small Discoveries in Baarn
Baarn’s smaller cultural sites also give the town its own character. The Oudheidkamer in Baarn is open to everyone. The Pauluskerk on the Brink is open to the public daily and can be visited for sightseeing, meditation or prayer. Opening arrangements may change, so it is worth checking the visitor information. On Heritage Day, the Oude Begraafplaats is open and a guided tour is offered; some Art Nouveau railings have been fully restored. Specific event dates vary.
The Pekingtuin occasionally hosts outdoor performances in its music pavilion and also has several play structures for children. Exhibitions by local artists rotate at the Koetshuis. From March to September, the building can be visited inside on weekends. For information about outdoor activities, TOP De Generaal is a starting point for walking, cycling and boating. It is housed in a historic railway station building overlooking the Baarnse Bos; a map of the surrounding area and parking are also available. Nearby are Paleis Soestdijk, the Naald van Waterloo and Landgoed Groeneveld. Check the latest information about visitor facilities before planning your day.
Discover more destinations: Baarn, Lage-Vuursche, Wijk Bij Duurstede, Utrechtse Heuvelrug, Montfoort, Nieuwegein, Leusden, Veenendaal.
For the main travel overview: Utrecht.
