Welsum between the IJssel floodplains and village history

Welsum combines views of the IJssel and its floodplains with a landscape shaped by village life and history. Ancient lime trees, fields and thatched farmhouses define the village; numerous orchards blossom in spring. Other features include a medieval church tower, a local festival tradition and paths through the surrounding area. Depending on your interests, you can focus your stay on the landscape, history or outdoor activities.

Landscape along the IJssel

From Welsum, you can enjoy lovely views of the IJssel and its floodplains. Ancient lime trees, fields and thatched farmhouses shape the village landscape. In spring, blossoming orchards add a seasonal touch. Visiting at this time of year lets you experience a different side of the village than when looking across fields, farmsteads and trees without their blossoms.

Another type of landscape can be found at Katerstede, in the IJssel floodplains near Welsum. The area includes open water, softwood floodplain forest, wild vegetation and grassland right along the banks of the IJssel. Together, these features give the floodplain its distinctive character: water, vegetated areas and grassland all form part of the landscape. Alongside the fields and farmhouses in the village, they make for varied surroundings, while keeping each landscape distinct.

Church, tradition and local history

The Reformed Church in Welsum brings together two different periods of construction. Its tower was built in 1475; the church building next to the medieval tower was completed in 1830. These dates give the village’s history a clear timeline: the tower dates from the late Middle Ages, while the present-day church building is from the 19th century. Anyone interested in Welsum’s history will find a tangible point of reference here.

The Welsumse Karmse is also part of local tradition. On the first weekend of August, a festival float is traditionally built in most parts of the village. If you want to plan your stay around this custom, check the specific event dates. The history of the Welsumer chicken breed is another link between the village and the region: it originated around the period from the late 19th to the early 20th century in Welsum and the surrounding villages, on the clay soils along the banks of the IJssel. The breed’s origins are therefore closely connected to the riverside landscape and the area around the village.

Circular walk and route along the IJssel

The Welsums Kippeneindje is a signposted circular walk through the countryside around Welsum, near Olst. The route follows quiet walking trails and peaceful paved roads, passing water and old farmhouses. There is a car park for the walk at the NH-Begraafplaats on Vossenweg in Welsum.

Another way to include the area in a longer route is the Pontjesroute langs de IJssel. It passes through Welsum and Terwolde on the way to Deventer; a ferry takes you back to the eastern bank of the IJssel. The circular walk and the Pontjesroute offer different ways to plan your trip: a signposted loop through the surrounding area or a route connecting several riverside towns. Check the ferry service before setting off so you can plan your return crossing.

These highlights offer different perspectives and can help you plan your visit around your own interests.

Discover more destinations: Wesepe, Olst, Wijhe

Go to the main travel overview: Olst-Wijhe.