Den Dolder combines a varied landscape with a distinctive cultural history. In the Willem Arntszbos, open areas alternate with woodland; at the same time, historic buildings, memorial sites and a cycling route tell of different chapters in the area’s history. Nature, walks and architectural heritage offer a range of ways to shape your stay.

Heathland, Forest and Walks

The Willem Arntszbos lies on the northwestern edge of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Its landscape includes open areas, heathland and drifting sand, as well as mixed woodland, avenues and a large field. Those interested in different landscape types will find more here than just a single woodland setting.

You can walk freely in the Pleinesbos; check the current local rules before your visit. The woodland also forms an ecological link between the natural areas north and south of Den Dolder. This brings two distinct perspectives on nature together: the diverse landscape features of the Willem Arntszbos and the connecting ecological role of the Pleinesbos.

Buildings and Memorial Sites

The Willem Arntsz Stichting complex is culturally and historically significant as an example of pioneering work in psychiatry in the early 20th century. Individual buildings also reflect how the site developed: the farm at the Willem Arntszhoeve was built in 1906 as the first building for occupational therapy. Next to the farm is a coach house with a horse stable. It was among the first buildings of the Willem Arntsz Hoeve, founded on the heath near Den Dolder, and has cultural-historical and ensemble value as a historic part of the W.A. Stichting.

The Gehoorzaal was built on the grounds of the Willem Arntsz Hoeve in 1911. Its original function underpins its cultural-historical value; it is also part of the site’s earliest buildings and has ensemble value. The island station in Den Dolder was built in 1913 for the Utrechtse Centraal Spoorweg Maatschappij.

The garden and architectural design of Prins Hendriksoord also have cultural-historical and architectural value. They include a landscaped park designed by J. Copijn, an Old Dutch garden by J. D. Tersteeg, a half-timbered outbuilding and two iron bridges over the winding pond.

A memorial stone commemorating the railway workers’ strike from 18 September 1944 to 8 May 1945 stands in front of the station building on Dolderseweg. There is also a commemorative plaque on the station building. The various memorials and buildings each highlight different aspects of history, from social history to the railway.

Cycling Route and Getting Around

The downloadable PDF cycling route “Fietstocht langs de grenzen van Den Dolder” passes numerous historic sites in Den Dolder. The start and finish are at the fire station on Dolderseweg, next to the entrance to the Willem Arntszhoeve. Check the latest PDF before setting off, as route materials may be updated. A route brochure dated 29 May 2023 lists around 25 works of art on the grounds of the Willem Arntsz Hoeve, if the term “art” is interpreted broadly; all are mapped and accompanied by explanations.

In the northernmost part of Den Dolder, the cycling route points to a Staatsbosbeheer sign for the Nonnenland walking trail. A guided tour starts on the old Dolderseweg near Den Dolder station. From the station, it is a five-minute walk to the tree-lined grounds of the Willem Arntsz Hoeve. The different starting points make it easy to plan your visit around the cycling route, a guided tour or a walk in the Pleinesbos.

Garden Visits Depending on the Season

In the heart of Den Dolder, De Bloementuin is a meeting place for sustainable local gardening and healthy, locally produced food. Nature, the environment and the climate are also among the topics explored there together with the local community. Flowers, plants and fresh vegetables are available depending on the season. Visitor facilities include the garden and greenhouses; its seasonal offerings make the garden a different kind of experience from the historic buildings and paths.

Discover more destinations: Zeist, Bosch En Duin.

Return to the main travel overview: Zeist.