A private country estate covering around 170 hectares lies in the municipality of Woudenberg, at the foot of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug: Landgoed Geerestein. You can walk along its open paths and avenues from sunrise to sunset; check local notices before your trip. It is not only individual attractions but also the paths through the estate that are part of the experience. Geerestein includes ten national heritage monuments (Rijksmonumenten), including a castle, a landscaped park and four buildings of cultural and historical significance.
Walks through forests, country estates and past the pyramid
When choosing a route, it helps to consider its distance and course. The Oudenhorsterpad is a 7.5-kilometre circular walking route that starts at Partycentrum Schimmel in Woudenberg. It follows unpaved paths, farmland and historic routes wherever possible. The 4.6-kilometre de Marmontberg walking route passes through the forest and by the Pyramide van Austerlitz. This makes it the shorter of the two routes; comparing the distances helps you estimate the length of the walk. Before setting out on this route, check the waymarkers and access.
The Termatenpad also connects landscape and local history: it passes through forests and by country estates, and offers insights into local history. The Woudenberg en Austerlitz children's route offers a different way to explore. It is a child-friendly themed route along the cycling route network, whose junctions are marked with white and green signs.
A viewpoint steeped in history
The Pyramide van Austerlitz stands on one of the highest points of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. It was built in 1804 as a tribute to Napoleon Bonaparte. Climb the 81 steps for views across the surrounding area. History and views meet at this distinctive landmark.
The pyramid grounds also include a large playground and a funfair with bumper cars, carousels and a small railway. As visitor facilities may change, it is a good idea to check what is currently available before your visit.
Cultural history and local collections
Grebbelinie in 't Vizier offers an exhibition and an educational and information centre about how freedom was fought for during the Second World War in the region of Woudenberg, Scherpenzeel and Renswoude. Visitors can walk through a trench and see a casemate up close; access may depend on local regulations. Guided tours of the trench, casemate and bunker are available by appointment only.
The Oudheidkamer Woudenberg displays antique objects in changing exhibitions. Its permanent exhibitions include “Reis door de tijd” (Journey through time), a school classroom and a living room. The Oudheidkamer also has a research room with numerous reference books. If you are planning a visit, check current access arrangements separately.
At Henschotermeer and throughout the year
Henschotermeer is a recreation area in the middle of the forests of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug; you can walk around the lake. At Henschotermeer, the Oude Poffertjeskraam serves traditional Dutch poffertjes made using an artisanal recipe. As food offerings and opening hours may vary, it is worth checking the latest information before your visit.
Events also give your visit a seasonal focus: Haantjesdag has been held in Woudenberg on the second Saturday in June each year since 1986. Check the exact date and programme before travelling. Proef Woudenberg is also held in Woudenberg every year; check the programme for the latest edition.
Discover more destinations: Woudenberg, Renswoude, Maarssen, Ijsselstein, Woerden, Montfoort, Nieuwegein, Baarn
For the main travel overview: Utrecht.
