Perhaps, the moment we hear and think of the Netherlands, we project the idea of a flat land, competing with the mean sea level, into our mind. While this is logical, this country of about 18 million people has more to offer than the orthodox belief in terms of nature and history. Approximately 10 kilometres away from Utrecht lies a beautiful, if not too spoiled, nature area. Being home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, Utrechtse Heuvelrug, translated as Utrecht Hill Ridge, owes its geo-characteristics to the middle Pleistocene glacial period of 150,000 years ago, during which time ice and water pushed up stones and a deposit of sand to form the ridge.
Having crowned a national park status (Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park), the second-largest forest area, after Veluwe, in the Netherlands spans 9 municipalities, from the Municipality of Baarn in the northwest to the Municipality of Rhenen in the southeast. The Park is not just a produce of climate development and a witness of guns and power in the past, but it also serves as a playground for us in the present, to come back to nature, away from the bustling rhythm of brick-and-mortar cosmopolitan.
Bear in mind however that the National Park is referred to when the Park is mentioned throughout this article as the Park also entails the Municipality of Utrechtse Heuvelrug.
Archeological evidence has been documented in the area, lending largely to human settlers in the Neolithic period. While artefacts found around the area have been housed and preserved at musea, many burial mounds can still be seen along hiking trails.
Then came the medieval era whence agricultural development rose to prominence. The construction of grand estates and castles took place, mainly owned by the rich families and conglomerates. To date, castles still stand strong and reflect the Dutch history upon its power and wealth at that time. Two major castles, among many others, can still be visited, namely Kasteel Amerongen and Huis Doorn.
One arguably pivotal landmark from the 19th century in the area is the Pyramid of Austerlitz. Built in 1804 under the direction of General Auguste de Marmont as a tribute to
Napoleon Bonaparte, the Pyramid design was inspired by the pyramids in Egypt and whose name was derived from a region in what is now Czechia after the battle (Battle of Austerlitz).
One of the most favourite activities is hiking, the routes of which range from easy to somewhat challenging. Suited for all skill levels, the Park has established marked hiking trails of over 56 kilometres. Some highlights include, but not limited to, Grebbeberg Memorial Walk (4 kilometres), the Kaapse Bossen Trail (5-7 kilometres), and Amerongse Berg Trail (6 kilometres round trip). Looking for something longer or more exciting? The Park has got you covered! You may then want to try the Boswachterspad Grebbelinie that starts and end at Café Restaurant De Dennen, allowing you to take a quick breakfast before beginning your 15-kilometre journey. For more gripping trails, you are very welcome to give this site a visit.
For bike enthusiasts, whether it be mountain bike (MTB), race bike, or city bike, worry not! The park provides ample well-marked bike routes from east to west, from concrete to some mud. Care must be taken particularly for mountain (or actually ‘hill’) biking as some trails are shared with those for hiking. Hence, always remember to slow down and give some sign when bumping into hikers. Some MTB trails require a pass to traverse and the pass can be bought directly at MTB pass points. Always check this in advance, e.g. on de heuvelrug to avoid unnecessary inconvenience.
For leisure cycling, spoil yourself with cultural heritage and natural beauty along the routes. The 35-kilometre Historic Estate Route takes cyclists past iconic castles, manor houses, and historic villages, including Kasteel Amerongen and Huis Doorn. This is ideal for those who wish to see many establishments in one day. Another option, giving more zen from diverse landscapes, is the Forests and Heathlands Loop, rolling for about 25 kilometres. The Loop showcases cattle, wooded trails, and open heathlands. In towns such as Amerongen and Doorn, it is possible to rent a bike.
Last but not least, if you are a road explorer by car, several parking lots are provided across the Park. The most notable one is the parking area next to De Pyramide van Austerlitz (Restaurant & Speeltuin). It is indeed in the vicinity of the Pyramid. While there is no parking fee, a small contribution is expected from drivers when checking out. So, remember to have some cash in your pocket. If you don’t have any penny, just tell the parking ‘guard’ that you have none.
Regardless of the activities or means of transport you take, most buildings and musea can be visited without advance reservation, unless there is a special exhibition or feature that requires you to make one. The Pyramid of Austerlitz, for instance, has a ticket office at the entrance and payment can only be made by card.
While the Park can be visited all-year long, it is strongly advised to check the weather before coming as cold and wet weather may deprive visitors of pleasant hiking and clear visibility. As a matter of course, be it hiking or cycling, always stay on the designated paths and read caution signs if necessary.
Getting to the Park is very convenient. If you own no car, it is best to reach it by train from Utrecht Central Station, usually by NS Sprinter that stops at all local stations. Always check the timetable beforehand so that you could expect how much time will spend on the train ride.
We hope you enjoyed this glimpse into the vibrant life of Utrecht. For more stories, tips, and local insights, keep exploring UtrechtToday. Don’t forget to share your favourite articles with friends and join the conversation on our social media channels. Until next time, keep discovering the unique flavors and experiences that make our city special.
