Wide green spaces and waterways connect Houten’s residential neighbourhoods, town centres and open countryside. There is also a dedicated cycle network linking residential neighbourhoods, facilities and town centres. The cycle routes are continuous and separated from other traffic. Landscape and cycling are therefore among the defining ways to explore Houten.
Cycling through Houten
The cycle network provides practical guidance for trips between the places and facilities it connects. For train travel, Houten has two railway stations with services to Utrecht and other parts of the Netherlands. If you plan your visit around your interests, you can combine cycle routes with walks, nature experiences and historical sights.
Forts and paths through history
Fort 't Hemeltje was built between 1877 and 1881 and is the most recently constructed fort in the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. A walking trail runs around the fort. A spy trail with activities for children offers a second, playful way to explore it. The trails therefore differ not just in name, but also in how they introduce visitors to the site.
The tower of Fort Honswijk was built between 1841 and 1848 and is considered the oldest and largest tower in the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. Guided tours are offered there by volunteers from Stichting Honswijk–Everdingen. Check before your trip whether a tour is available. Lunet aan de Snel can also be explored in connection with the history of the defensive works: the fortification dates from 1845 to 1846 and lies 300 metres north of Fort Honswijk. Its outer rampart is open to walkers.
Fort Werk aan de Korte Uitweg was built between 1876 and 1879 to support Fort Honswijk. There are Klompenpaden (traditional walking trails) and other short walking routes around the fort; cycling is also possible in the surrounding area. Canoes can be rented at the fort. As this offer may be seasonal, it is advisable to check availability in advance.
On foot, by bike and on the water
In the Schalkwijk area, the 10-kilometre Lint en Liniepad passes through meadows, by forts and through the floodplains of the Lek. The trail connects the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie with historic defensive works such as Werk aan de Groeneweg. For a longer outing, there is the 32-kilometre Houten Huizen, Stenen Forten recreational cycle route: it is unmarked, uses GPS guidance and passes Fort bij 't Hemeltje in Houten. This gives you a choice between a designated walking trail and a longer GPS-guided cycling tour.
On the Eiland van Schalkwijk, you can canoe, walk and cycle through polder landscapes and the floodplains of the Lek. Activities range from walking on trails to getting out on the water. Anglers have several options in the municipality, including Kooikersplas, where boating is also possible. A Vispas fishing permit is required; also check the local rules in force before fishing.
Nature and outdoor activities
A former branch of the Kromme Rijn has been restored in Nieuw Wulven. Animals found there include deer, hares, grass snakes, jays and wood mice; sightings are not guaranteed. At Speelbos Nieuw Wulven, children can climb, build and play with water. The play forest is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and admission is free. Check before your visit whether it is temporarily closed.
Speelboerderij Houten also combines two attractions: a petting zoo and a playground. As opening details can change, it is worth checking before your visit. For exercise at a series of stations, the Vijfwal fitness trail offers a route of almost five kilometres with 16 exercises, sports equipment and a sprint course. Houten’s green spaces also provide opportunities to walk, play and exercise outdoors.
Archaeology and local life
The Het Oude Station Archaeology Museum is located in the attic of Houten’s Old Station. It displays archaeological finds and data studied and preserved by the Archaeological Working Group. Opening hours are listed as Tuesday and Saturday, 11:00 am to 3:00 pm; check these times before your visit. De Roskam offers a different historical perspective: the building in Houten dates back at least to 1630, and its present-day appearance took shape around 1735. It was formerly used as a farmhouse and inn.
At Streekmarkt Houten, local flavours, crafts and socialising come together. The stalls sell and offer tastings of regional products. As this is a recurring market with individual dates, check the dates if you are planning a visit. For tourist information about the Kromme Rijnstreek, as well as walking and cycling routes and places to visit, Wereld van Weelde is an official VVV tourist information centre.
Discover more destinations: Houten, 'T Goy, Schalkwijk, Maarssen, De Ronde Venen, Eemnes, Veenendaal, Amersfoort.
For the main travel overview: Utrecht.
