At Bunnik, history spans from the Roman origins of Castellum Fectio to the fortress landscape of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. Discover country estates, gardens and paths along the Kromme Rijn as well. This interplay between architectural history and green landscapes offers different perspectives on the Kromme Rijnstreek: you can explore historic sites, choose a route or learn about the cultural history of gardens.
Roman history and the Waterlinie
Castellum Fectio was built around the beginning of the Common Era, rebuilt several times and abandoned around 275. Fort bij Vechten represents a later military history: it was built in 1870 as part of the second ring of fortifications around Utrecht and comprises 16 bombproof buildings covered with earth.
At the Waterliniemuseum Fort bij Vechten, the history of the Waterlinie is presented interactively. Exhibition topics also include the Waterlinies, Roman history and nature in the forts. Tours of Fort bij Vechten and nearby Castellum Fectio are offered from the museum; check the current dates in advance.
Forts and green landscapes
Fort bij Rijnauwen is considered the largest and greenest fort in the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visits are only possible during guided tours or other accompanied events. Check access options in advance. Rare plants and animals can be found in the fort’s nature area.
Together with the adjoining country estates of Oud and Nieuw-Amelisweerd, Rhijnauwen forms a connected green area with landscape and cultural-historical value. At Landgoed Niënhof near Bunnik, meadows, parkland and open ash woodland alternate with dense undergrowth. Along the Kromme Rijn by the estate, the landscapes provide a habitat for grass snakes, demoiselles and kingfishers.
Routes through the landscape
The Langs de Kromme Rijn route explores the river around Bunnik and passes wooded country estates, a fort and bunkers. It starts at the Oud Amelisweerd car park on Koningslaan, 3981 AT Bunnik; check parking options before setting out.
The Bunkerpad connects Fort bij Vechten with Fort bij Rijnauwen and runs through meadows and past bunkers. An app brings the landscape, cultural heritage and related stories to life; check in advance whether it is available. The Slagmaatpad starts at Fort bij Vechten, is about seven kilometres long and passes through the rural area of Bunnik and Houten. Shorter loops make a shorter walk possible. The 51-kilometre Tour de Kromme Rijn, by contrast, is a cycling route; it starts at TOP Fort bij Vechten, Achterdijk 12, 3981 HB Bunnik.
Country houses, gardens and farm culture
Landhuis Oud Amelisweerd is a Rijksmonument, known for its 18th-century Chinese wallpaper. Its room layout, floors, doors and ceilings have remained unchanged since 1770. The country house presents changing exhibitions and programmes by various artists and organisations for a diverse audience.
The Kastelenroute Amelisweerd & Rhijnauwen passes former castles and historic kitchen gardens. The route starts at Huis Oud Amelisweerd; the starting point is car park P1 or the Oud Amelisweerd bicycle parking area.
Tuinderij Amelis'Hof is a garden open to visitors, where vegetables, herbs and flowers are grown using traditional methods from historic gardens on country estates. From May to November, the garden shop sells fresh organic vegetables, fruit and herbs seasonally; flower picking is also offered seasonally. The exact months may change. In May, Tuinderij offers several stalls and tours, including during Fête de la Nature; programme details may vary.
Boerderij De Zonnewijzer is a small, listed farm with buildings that have stood for around 250 years. The farm opens to the public during open farm afternoons. Eggs, Amelisweerd honey and raw milk are then offered for sale; dates and selection may vary.
Visitor information
Bunnik is considered a day-trip destination in the Kromme Rijnstreek. From Bunnik railway station, Fort bij Vechten is about ten minutes away by bicycle; travel time depends on route conditions. An educational guided boat trip on the Kromme Rijn starts near Grotelaan 16 in Bunnik. Available dates may vary.
Discover more destinations: Bunnik, Werkhoven, Ijsselstein, Renswoude, Rhenen, De Ronde Venen, Nieuwegein, Montfoort.
For the main travel overview: Utrecht.
