Westervoort between rivers and history

The Nederrijn and the IJssel branch apart near Westervoort. This shapes the landscape as well as water management, giving the town a clear theme for your trip. There is also a range of things to see, from riverside paths and viewpoints to buildings, local history and events. When planning your trip, consider whether nature, culture or a particular event is your main priority.

Rivers and the waterside landscape

A set of rules governs the distribution of water between the Nederrijn and the IJssel near Westervoort and helps regulate water levels. The agreed distribution is two-thirds for the Nederrijn and one-third for the IJssel; water management decisions may change this arrangement. The pumping station at Hondsbroeksche Pleij near Westervoort is also one of the measures that increase the discharge capacity of both rivers during high water.

Driegaarden lies just outside the village. From a hill, you can enjoy wide-ranging views over the surrounding area. The start of the walking trail there is 500 metres from Westervoort NS railway station. Those interested in the changing river landscape can also follow the Pleijenpad around Westervoort. During high water, the section through the uiterwaarden is inaccessible; the marked alternative route along the cycle path is used instead. Check the current route before setting out.

There are marked walking trails around Westervoort. Junction-based cycling routes and day trips also start from Westervoort. Many cycling routes in the Liemers region run alongside the water and over dikes; some cross by ferry and pass farms and mills. Routes and markers may change, so it is worth checking the latest route information before setting out.

Local history and buildings

The monumental church building on Dorpstraat is a historic landmark. Its history probably began in the 8th century AD. Around 1400, a priest's choir facing east was probably built behind the church in the Gothic style. The church underwent extensive renovation and restoration from 1854 to 1857. The church tower in Westervoort dates from the 13th century.

Huize Vredenburg also brings together several historical periods: the building is first mentioned in 1440. Today's Huize Vredenburg was probably an outbuilding that was later converted into a farm. Exhibitions and concerts are held there regularly; the programme may change. Fort Geldersoord was built to protect the inlet at Gelders Oort. There is also a strong likelihood of a Roman presence in Westervoort.

A more recent part of local culture is “moes aete”, organised by the dialect group of the Historische Kring Westervoort. The group held it for the 27th time in 2025 at Zalencentrum Wieleman.

Events and planning your visit

The Kunstroute Westervoort is held every spring in odd-numbered years. At some locations, you can watch demonstrations or take part in a short workshop. Muziek in de Tuin follows a different schedule: it takes place on a Sunday in May or June in even-numbered years. Musicians perform at eight locations in Westervoort, and visitors can travel between them on foot or by bicycle.

The events' different schedules make them separate occasions for a stay. If you are planning your trip around either event, check the dates in advance. For cycling and walking routes, stories about water, Roman finds and an events calendar, the municipality points visitors to the “Kijk verder in de Liemers” portal.

Swimming and things to focus on during your stay

De Waaij, a swimming spot where children can also swim, lies on the edge of Westervoort. Check local conditions and pay attention to supervision and safety. This gives Westervoort another option for planning your day, alongside walking and cycling routes.

To decide whether Westervoort is right for your hotel stay, weigh up the different themes of your trip: river landscapes and trails, historic buildings or an event. “Kijk verder in de Liemers” offers further guidance on current routes and dates.

Discover more destinations: Westervoort, Lingewaal, Montferland, Rozendaal, Bronckhorst, Duiven, Barneveld, Aalten.

For the broader travel overview: Gelderland.