Veenendaal’s history began with the reclamation of peatland in the Gelderse Vallei. The area also features a landscape of long, narrow plots, street art, historic windmills and activities on De Grift. Depending on what you are looking for, local history and art, your own routes, waterside experiences or seasonal offerings can be the focus of your stay.
Peatland history, landscape and street art
Peatland reclamation created a landscape of long, narrow plots in Veenendaal. Shortly after the new peat colony was founded, a church and a market were established. The landscape and early development of the settlement are therefore closely linked: the town’s history is connected both to the reclamation of the peatland and to the colony’s first buildings.
The street art route showcases the town’s history and tells the stories of its residents. New locations are being added to the route. A mural in the tunnel on Spitsbergenweg depicts a cyclist from Veenendaal and a pheasant from the Binnenveld. The design thus features two specific local references, while the route also gives space to the stories of residents.
Museum and windmills
Every year, Stadsmuseum Veenendaal hosts changing exhibitions, talks, demonstrations and other activities. Children can take part in a treasure hunt or workshop, or explore the escape box together. As programmes and activities for children may change, check what is on offer at your preferred time before visiting.
De Nieuwe Molen is a round brick tower mill with a gallery, built in 1911. Molen De Vriendschap is a gallery mill dating from 1872, where flour is still milled using traditional methods. The construction dates mark different points in history, and the continued flour production is a distinctive feature of De Vriendschap.
Walking and water routes
You can complete the 7-kilometre Monumentenrondje on foot, by bicycle, scooter or inline skates, or by running. The route includes an audio tour that passes four different monumental buildings and historic sites. If you would rather plan your own route, you can connect numbered junctions on Veenendaal’s walking junction network. Trail signs may change, so check the latest route information before setting out.
De Grift also connects history with a way to experience Veenendaal from the water. Bishop David of Burgundy had the canal dug between 1473 and 1481. Today, you can travel along De Grift by canoe from Rhenen to Amersfoort, passing through Veenendaal. Kayaks, canoes and SUP boards can be launched from the canoe jetties. As visitor facilities may change, check local information before you travel.
Visitors can also experience Veenendaal from the water on trips aboard the Veense Aak. Tickets and packages can be reserved through Stadsmuseum Veenendaal. Schedules and booking options may change; check the latest times and reservation details if you are planning a trip.
Regional offerings and event dates
At the Eekhoeve’s Landwinkel, you can sample Boerenkaas, Hereford beef and Veens Kaatje; product availability may vary. In the experience gardens, visitors can pick or cut their own flowers, vegetables and fruit. The garden experience is seasonal, so timing matters when planning a visit.
The Veenendaal-Veenendaal cycling race has been held since 1985 and starts and finishes in the centre of Veenendaal. Dates and routes vary with each edition. If the race is important to your stay, check the date for the specific edition rather than relying solely on its long-running tradition.
For the main travel overview: Veenendaal.
