Oldebroek: Heathland, Polders and Cultural Landscape

Heathland, open pastures, forest and a rural cultural landscape define Oldebroek. The part of the Veluwe where the town is located combines these landscapes with dune ridges, springs, streams and drifting sands, as well as the transition to the IJssel. If you are planning a trip here, you can combine nature experiences with walking and cycling routes, regional history and seasonal activities.

Heathland and Open Polder Landscape

Wezepsche Heide covers 260 hectares and offers walking and cycling routes. An entrance near Wezep railway station is the starting point for many routes. The area is accessible between sunrise and sunset; if you are planning a visit early in the morning or later in the evening, check the access times in advance.

Polder Oosterwolde offers a different landscape: its open grassland, dotted with a few trees, is a habitat for birds and other animals. Waders found here include lapwing, black-tailed godwit, redshank, whimbrel and oystercatcher. With a little luck, white-tailed eagles may also be seen. Occurrences and sightings can vary depending on the season and natural conditions.

Walking Routes of Different Lengths

For a shorter walk, a red-marked, 2.5-kilometre route passes through the De Vuursteenberg nature area, by heathland and forest. The IJsselvliedt estate has two marked walking routes: the red IJsselvliedt route, at 4.2 kilometres, and the blue-marked ’t Vinkennest, at 2.3 kilometres. The stated distances help you estimate the length of your walk, but do not indicate its level of difficulty.

Those interested in country estates, agricultural landscapes and forest can enjoy these highlights on the 16-kilometre, red-marked Klompenpad Het Vreepad in Oldebroek. The purple-marked Het Wiseperpad is 17 kilometres long and passes through Wezep and Hattemerbroek; its highlights include forest and heathland. Both trails offer a longer walking option, but differ in their routes and the landscape features mentioned.

By Bike and on the Water

The WO2 Oldebroek cycling route is more than 42 kilometres long and can be started at any point. It leads to Second World War sites in the municipality of Oldebroek, including crash sites, hiding places, streets named after people who were killed, and other notable locations. For cycling trips, unisex bicycles, electric bicycles, tandems, electric cargo bikes and bicycles with child seats are available to rent in the municipality. Check rental availability and terms before making your plans.

There are also opportunities to go canoeing and kayaking on the water. A historical route is about five kilometres long; the stated duration is 1.5 to 2 hours. With a map, you can discover historical sites along the way. Water sports are seasonal and depend on the operator. Canoeists and kayakers are also allowed to pass through the Reevesluis into the Reevediep; access to the water may depend on local operating conditions.

Farm, Mill and Seasonal Experiences

Boerderijmuseum De Bovenstreek showcases a fully furnished farm dating from 1756. The farmstead includes outbuildings as well as ornamental and kitchen gardens, including an orchard. Thousands of exhibits and household items date from around 1800 to 1950. Activities for children include dressing up, a treasure hunt, playing in a real haystack and traditional Dutch games. Check which activities are available at the time of your visit.

The De Hoop mill in Oldebroek was built by Kornelis Blaauw in 1853. Following its restoration, it has three functions: grinding grain, steeping barley and pressing oil. The mill is open for visits when the blue flag is flying; at those times, the miller offers a tour and explains how it works. As no regular opening hours are listed, it is advisable to check whether a visit is possible before travelling there.

At Fruittuin Verbeek, you can pick your own fruit in the orchard from late June to the end of October. There is also an orchard café and, in good weather, a spacious terrace overlooking the orchard. Confirm picking dates and visitor activities in advance. As another leisure option, De Veldkamp swimming pool has a 25-metre sports pool and a leisure pool; check current visiting options before making your plans.

Discover more destinations: Oldebroek, Wezep, 'T Loo, Noordeinde, Oude Ijsselstreek, Druten, Zevenaar, Elburg.

For the full travel overview: Gelderland.