Lochem: Achterhoek countryside, culture and cycling routes

The municipality of Lochem is shaped by a cultural landscape typical of the Achterhoek: rows of trees, gently curving banks, forests and heathland are all part of its character. Together with the Lochemse Berg, Kale Berg and Paasberg, they form a landscape where you can discover a variety of natural environments. Culture and architectural history are also part of the picture, from the museum in Almen to notable buildings throughout the municipality.

Countryside and routes around Lochem

The 11-kilometre Veen Route connects Lochem’s historic centre with the surrounding countryside. Along the way, it passes wetlands, crosses hills and runs through forests. It offers a practical way to experience the town centre and the countryside in one trip.

Lochem has cycling routes using the junction network, signposted routes, and routes for handbikes and wheelchairs. The Lochem Route is 21 kilometres long and has an elevation gain of 295 metres. By comparison, the Veen Route is shorter, at 11 kilometres; the elevation gain on the Lochem Route provides another useful detail for planning. The route information helps you take distance and elevation profile into account when planning your trip.

Country estates and visitor experiences

Huis Verwolde can be visited in several ways: explore its fully furnished rooms on your own, as part of a guided tour or during an activity. You can also visit the park garden and estate on foot. Opening hours may change, so check the current schedule before your visit.

A walking route through the Ampsen and Verwolde estates passes a special tree trail. There are 17 different tree species along the route. So, as well as the estates, the variety of trees is a focus of this walk. If you are interested in the landscape and the details that define it, this offers another specific point of interest to consider when planning an outing.

Museums, culture and notable buildings

The STAAL Museum in Almen presents the landscape, history and culture of the Achterhoek. A.C.W. Staring (1767–1840) loved this region. The municipality of Lochem also has 24 buildings that are, or have been, used as churches, synagogues or mosques. This figure therefore includes buildings with both current and former uses.

Kasteel Ampsen is the largest castle in the municipality of Lochem. The monumental water tower on Paaschberg was built in 1924 and designed by architect H. Wessel. Lochem’s green open-air theatre is on the edge of the forest, with its seating built into the slopes of Paasberg. These buildings differ in function and appearance, adding further notable places to visit alongside the area’s nature and cultural experiences.

Getting your bearings and travelling here

Lochem railway station is on the Zutphen–Oldenzaal railway line. If you plan to travel by train, check the timetable for your travel date, as schedules can change. For information about the surrounding area, the VVV Inspiratiepunt Lochem is located in a former town hall in the centre. It offers interactive information about the area.

Discover more destinations: Kring Van Dorth, Laren, Eefde, Barchem, Almen, Gorssel, Voorst, Overbetuwe.

For the broader travel overview: Gelderland.