NL
A visit to De Hoge Veluwe National Park combines Dutch nature, world‑famous art and architecture in a way you will not find anywhere else. This is not a standard nature reserve; it is a carefully managed landscape that you can explore by bike or on foot, with a good chance of spotting red deer or wild boar. Read on and discover how to plan your day in this vast park to get the most out of your visit.
What makes De Hoge Veluwe National Park unique
At 5,400 hectares, De Hoge Veluwe is the largest continuous and actively managed nature reserve in the Netherlands. The park, founded by the Kröller-Müller couple, is unique because it is entirely privately owned and receives no subsidies. The park uses the income from ticket sales directly for the management and conservation of biodiversity. The landscape is a reflection of woodland, extensive heathlands, grasslands and the characteristic sand drifts. This diversity creates rich wildlife, including red deer, mouflon and wild boar.
‘ Walking is one of the best ways to experience the park’s different landscapes. ’
The most beautiful walking routes for every level
Walking is one of the best ways to experience the park’s different landscapes. The routes are clearly signposted and vary in length, so there is a suitable option for every walker. Bring sturdy shoes, as many of the paths are unpaved.
Short routes (up to 5 km)
For a short but impressive walk, you can follow one of the waymarked routes starting at the Visitor Centre, the Kröller-Müller Museum or Jachthuis Sint-Hubertus. These routes take around an hour and give a varied impression of the surroundings. They are ideal if you are short on time or want to combine your visit with the museum.
Medium routes (5–15 km)
If you have more time, you can choose a longer route that takes you deeper into the park. These walks lead you through several types of landscape. A popular route is the one around the Pollen, one of the active sand drifts. Here you walk through an almost surreal landscape of sand and Scots pines. Allow around two to three hours for this walk. The paths take you along woodland and open heath, increasing your chances of seeing wildlife.
Long routes (more than 15 km)
For the experienced walker there are routes that take you to the quietest corners of the park. These hikes can take up to half a day. You will experience the silence of the vast forests and the expanse of the heathlands. Good preparation is important here; take enough water and provisions with you, as food and drink outlets are only found in the centre of the park.
Wildlife spotting in the park
Seeing the ‘big four’ of De Hoge Veluwe (red deer, wild boar, roe deer and mouflon) is a highlight for many visitors. Although you can encounter animals anywhere in the park during the day, you will greatly increase your chances by visiting a wildlife observation point at the end of the afternoon or early evening. At that time the animals become active and move to open areas to graze.
The best time of year to see deer
Every season has its own charm, but two periods stand out in particular for spotting red deer.
- The rutting season in autumn (September/October): This is the most spectacular period. The male deer, or stags, let out their impressive bellowing calls to scare off rivals and attract hinds. The park rangers organise special excursions during this period.
- Spring (May/June): At this time of year you can see young animals. The calves of the red deer and the piglets of the wild boar take their first steps in the outside world. It is a touching sight to see the animals in family groups.
Art and architecture in the heart of nature
In addition to nature, the park also offers internationally renowned cultural attractions. A visit is not complete without seeing the Kröller-Müller Museum. Here you will find the second-largest Van Gogh collection in the world, complemented by works by masters such as Monet, Picasso and Mondrian. The adjoining sculpture garden is one of the largest in Europe and offers a walk past modern sculptures in a natural setting.
Another architectural highlight is Jachthuis Sint-Hubertus. This former country residence of the Kröller-Müller couple was designed by the famous architect H.P. Berlage. The building and interior form a total work of art and can only be visited on a guided tour. Reserve your tickets online in advance.
‘ Explore the possibilities and turn your next trip into a day you will look back on with pleasure. ’
Practical preparation for your visit
Thorough preparation will ensure a carefree day. The park has three entrances: Otterlo, Hoenderloo and Schaarsbergen. At each entrance you will find the famous free White Bicycles, which allow you to explore the park at your own pace. There are bikes for adults and children (without stabilisers). You can also bring your own bike. Dogs are not allowed in the park, with the exception of assistance dogs. Buy your tickets online in advance to avoid queues at the ticket office, especially in the high season.
On the Traveler Tips website you will find more articles to help you plan your trips in the Netherlands and beyond. Discover our guides to other national parks, tips for the best road trips and advice on putting together the perfect travel itinerary. Explore the possibilities and turn your next trip into a day you will look back on with pleasure.
Frequently asked questions
For an optimal visit to De Hoge Veluwe National Park in terms of travel time, entrance and facilities, it is best to buy tickets online to avoid queues. The park is open 365 days a year; check the current opening times for 2026. For wildlife observation, late afternoon/evening is ideal and it is quieter in winter. Use the free White Bicycles for flexibility, but arrive early for the best availability.
De Hoge Veluwe National Park is easily accessible by bike or public transport. Within the park you can get around sustainably using the free White Bicycles, a rental bike, your own bike or on foot. For motorists it is possible to park outside the entrances for €4.90, or inside the park for €9.80 (2026 prices). The main entrances with parking facilities are Otterlo, Hoenderloo and Schaarsbergen.
De Hoge Veluwe National Park offers unique safari tours with rangers and night-time walks for an intense nature experience, during which visitors can spot wildlife from observation posts. For cultural enrichment, visitors can explore the Kröller-Müller Museum with its extensive Van Gogh collection and the architectural Jachthuis Sint-Hubertus, including guided tours. Various walking and cycling routes, which can be followed using the free White Bicycles or your own bike, lead through varied landscapes such as forests, heath and sand drifts. There are also monthly guided excursions, winter walks, GPS routes and the underground Museonder to discover the area’s natural and cultural wealth.
For a comfortable day in De Hoge Veluwe, arrive early or in the late afternoon for wildlife observation and wear sturdy shoes. Take enough water and snacks with you, as not all quieter areas have facilities; there is a restaurant at the Otterlo entrance. Explore the park on foot using routes from the information desk, or use the free White Bicycles (come early for availability). Book museum tickets and a time slot for the Kröller-Müller Museum online, and bring binoculars for the best wildlife experience.