Top 5 destinations for a holiday with your dog, close to home

Going on holiday with your dog doesn’t have to be far away to be amazing. In fact, close to home you’ll find countless dog-friendly regions where you and your four-legged friend can fully enjoy nature, peace and quiet, walking opportunities and fun activities. Whether you stay in the Netherlands or just cross the border, these are the top 5 destinations for a holiday with your dog close to home.

1. The Veluwe

The Veluwe is without doubt one of the most popular destinations for dogs and their owners. The area is known for its vast forests, heathlands and sand drifts where you can walk for hours. Many holiday parks and holiday homes are dog-friendly, and in various off-lead areas your dog can run freely. De Hoge Veluwe National Park also offers beautiful routes, although your dog usually has to stay on a lead there. The peaceful surroundings, fresh air and nature make the Veluwe the classic choice for a holiday with your dog.

2. The Limburg hills

Do you want a foreign feeling without leaving the country? Then the Limburg hills are a wonderful alternative. The rolling landscapes and charming villages sometimes look more like abroad than the Netherlands. For dogs there are countless walking routes, from short strolls to challenging hikes. The area around Valkenburg, Gulpen and Vaals is particularly popular. Many hotels and B&Bs are happy to welcome dogs, and on the terraces you can usually count on a bowl of water for your mate. Perfect for anyone who loves nature, tranquillity and Burgundian-style enjoyment.

3. The Belgian Ardennes

Just across the border you’ll find a paradise for adventurous dog owners: the Ardennes. Dense forests, babbling streams, deep valleys and countless walking routes make this a great destination for active holidays. Many paths are dog-friendly, and there are plenty of places where your dog can swim or paddle. Popular regions include Durbuy, La Roche-en-Ardenne and the area around Spa. The Ardennes are also known for their dog-friendly holiday homes, often with large gardens where your dog can run around safely.

4. The German Eifel

About a 2 to 3 hour drive from the Netherlands lies the Eifel: a quiet and mountainous region with volcanic lakes, dark forests and picturesque villages. For dogs it is a fantastic place thanks to the many walking routes, including well-marked paths along lakes such as the Laacher See or through the Vulkaaneifel nature reserve. Accommodation here often allows dogs, and many restaurants have no problem at all with a four-legged friend on the terrace. The climate and nature are ideal for long walks, even in summer.

5. The Dutch coast

Many dogs are overjoyed with sand, sea and space. And that is exactly what the Dutch coast offers. From Texel to Zeeland you’ll find countless dog-friendly beaches where your dog is allowed to run free during certain periods or in specific zones. Popular spots include the beach at Noordwijk, the coast of Ameland and the wide beaches of Schouwen-Duiveland. After a long beach walk you can settle down at one of the many beach pavilions, where dogs are often welcome. Ideal for anyone who wants to get a breath of fresh air and relax.

Where are you going on holiday with your dog?

So you really don’t have to go far away to enjoy a fantastic holiday with your dog. Whether you choose forests, mountains, hills or beach: close to home there are more than enough dog-friendly places that are perfect for a short break or a longer holiday. One thing is certain: with this top 5 you’ll have an unforgettable time together!