Houten Among Cycle Paths and Historic Forts

Wide green spaces and waterways run through Houten, connecting residential areas, town centers and the open countryside. The town also has its own cycle network, two railway stations and historic forts. Houten offers various ways to spend your stay: on a bike ride, visiting historic sites or enjoying time outdoors.

Cycle Paths, Green Corridors and Rail Connections

Houten’s cycle network connects residential areas, facilities and town centers. The cycle routes are continuous and separated from other traffic. There are also opportunities to get outdoors on foot: the municipality’s green spaces are ideal for walking, playing and exercising. Two railway stations offer train connections to Utrecht and other parts of the Netherlands.

There are different route options for longer rides. The Houten Huizen, Stenen Forten recreational cycle route is 32 kilometers long, unmarked and designed for use with GPS. In Houten, it passes Fort bij ’t Hemeltje. Check the current GPS route before setting out. The 10-kilometer Lint en Liniepad runs through the Schalkwijk area, across meadows, past forts and through the Lek floodplains. Along the way, it connects the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie with historic defensive sites such as Werk aan de Groeneweg.

Houten is part of the Kromme Rijnstreek, which you can explore on walking and cycling routes. The region also includes places such as Bunnik, Doorn and Wijk bij Duurstede. On Eiland van Schalkwijk, you can canoe, hike and cycle through polder landscapes and the Lek floodplains.

Forts and Historic Trails

Fort ’t Hemeltje dates from 1877 to 1881 and was the last fort built as part of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. A walking trail runs around the site, and a spy trail with activities for children complements it. The tower of Fort Honswijk was built between 1841 and 1848 and is considered the oldest and largest tower of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. Guided tours are available and are led by volunteers from Stichting Honswijk–Everdingen. Check tour availability before your trip.

Werk aan de Korte Uitweg is also connected to Fort Honswijk: it was built between 1876 and 1879 to support the fort. Around the site, you’ll find Klompenpaden and other short walking trails; cycling is possible in the surrounding area. You can rent canoes at the fort. As the availability of seasonal offerings may vary, it’s worth checking in advance.

Lunet aan de Snel dates from 1845 to 1846 and is located 300 meters north of Fort Honswijk. Its outer rampart is open to walkers. If you’re interested in the connection between landscape and water management, the Underwaterpad KIDS also offers plenty to explore: a free brochure shares information along the way about trees, birds, aquatic animals and the forts of the Nieuwe Hollandse Waterlinie. At Fort Lunet aan de Snel, children can climb a hill, and at Gemaal Bokhoven they can check the water level.

Nature and Outdoor Activities

A former branch of the Kromme Rijn has been restored at Nieuw Wulven. Animals found there include deer, hares, grass snakes, jays and wood mice; sightings are not guaranteed. At Speelbos Nieuw Wulven, children can climb, build and play in the water. The play area is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and is free to access. Check for temporary closures before visiting.

The Slagmaatpad offers opportunities to explore, learn and play in the countryside around Bunnik and Houten, including walks across meadows. The route passes Fort bij Vechten, goes by Farm Nieuw Slagmaat and runs through Speelbos Nieuw Wulven. Another way to get active is the Sportparcours Vijfwal: it is almost five kilometers long and features 16 exercises, exercise equipment and a sprint course.

Speelboerderij Houten combines a petting zoo with a playground; check opening details before your visit. You can fish and go boating at Kooikersplas. There are several places to fish in the municipality; a Vispas is required for fishing. Please also observe local fishing regulations.

Local History and Planning Your Visit

The Het Oude Station Archaeology Museum is located in the attic of Houten’s Old Station. It displays archaeological finds and data studied and preserved by the Archaeological Working Group. The listed opening hours are Tuesday and Saturday, 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.; check them before your visit. Another glimpse into local history is De Roskam: the historic building dates back at least to 1630, and its present-day appearance took shape around 1735. It was formerly used as a farm and inn.

Streekmarkt Houten brings together local flavors, crafts and community; the stalls offer regional products to buy and sample. Check the specific event dates before your trip. For tourist information about the Kromme Rijnstreek, walking and cycling routes, and places to visit, you can also go to the official VVV information center, Wereld van Weelde.

Discover more destinations: 'T Goy, Schalkwijk, Houten, Woudenberg, Bunnik, Stichtse Vecht, De Ronde Venen, Montfoort.

For the main travel overview: Utrecht.