Discover the villages and towns around Harderwijk. In the immediate vicinity are places, each with its own character and history. From old Hanseatic towns to villages in the Veluwe where life still moves at a leisurely pace.
Visit Elburg, for example, a fortified town with an almost entirely preserved medieval street layout, canals and historic buildings. Ermelo and Putten are also nearby and serve as gateways to the Veluwe, with charming village centres, outdoor cafés and plenty of nature in the immediate vicinity. A little further afield lies Nunspeet, a town long known as an artists’ village and a base for walks and cycle rides across the Veluwe.
Together with Harderwijk, these towns form a diverse region where history, nature and village life are all within easy reach. Stroll through the old streets, admire the historic buildings and, above all, take the time to settle down somewhere for a coffee or lunch. That way, you’ll discover, step by step, what makes this area such a pleasure to visit.
The villages around Harderwijk
From streams to farms, Hierden
Hierden lies just east of Harderwijk and has a history dating back to the Middle Ages. The village’s old name, Heyrden, probably refers to the heathland that used to lie here. The village originated as an agricultural community at the transition from the Veluwe to the lower-lying polder landscape along the Randmeren.
You can still see this location reflected in the landscape. On one side lie the forests of the Veluwe, on the other the open meadows of the polder area. The Hierdense Beek, one of the longest streams in the Veluwe, winds its way through the landscape, a feature that has remained unchanged for centuries.
The countryside is dotted with old farmhouses and estates, such as De Essenburg Castle from the seventeenth century. At the same time, Hierden is also a place where you can easily stay for a while. Spend the night at one of the B&Bs on a farmyard or take the time to relax at De Zwaluwhoeve. Here, the tranquillity of the landscape blends beautifully with places where you can truly enjoy it.
Ermelo Outdoor Living
Ermelo is situated in the Veluwe, between Harderwijk and Putten, and is a green village with a long history. Burial mounds and other archaeological finds in the surrounding area show that people have been living here for thousands of years. The village is nestled amongst woods and heathland, making it a popular starting point for walking and cycling trips across the Veluwe.
In the centre, you’ll find shops, restaurants and outdoor cafés, whilst on the outskirts of the village there are campsites, holiday parks and nature reserves. As a result, Ermelo combines village life with plenty of space to get out into the countryside.
Furthermore, Ermelo has long been known as a care village. At the end of the nineteenth century, the care institution Veldwijk was established here. Later, ’s Heeren Loo also set up in the village. These institutions have played an important role in the development of Ermelo and remain a visible part of the community.
Putten
Putten is situated in the Veluwe, between Harderwijk, Ermelo and Nijkerk. The village is surrounded by woods, heathland and farmland, making it a lovely place to get out into nature. From the centre, you can reach the Veluwe in no time by bike or on foot. There are various walking routes in the area, as well as several ‘klompenpaden’ (clog paths) that lead you right through the countryside and past farms.
A special place near Putten is the Schovenhorst Estate. Here stands the famous ‘bostoren’ (forest tower), a watchtower from which you have a sweeping view over the forests of the Veluwe. The estate also features historic woodland gardens with unusual tree species from all over the world.
Putten also holds an important place in Dutch wartime history. In October 1944, the so-called Putten round-up took place here, during which a large proportion of the male population was deported by the German occupiers. The monument De Vrouw van Putten in the village commemorates this traumatic event. This history remains an important part of the village’s story.
Nunspeet
Discover Nunspeet: Come and enjoy peace, nature and culture
The four charming village centres of Nunspeet, Vierhouten, Hulshorst and Elspeet are situated in the heart of the Noord-Veluwe, surrounded by forests, water, heathland and sand drifts. With a history as an artists’ colony, Nunspeet remains a destination where you will find peace, relaxation, sporting activities and inspiration. Nunspeet; straight out of the art world!
The Hanseatic town of Elburg
The historic town of Elburg is beautifully situated on the shores of the Veluwe lakes. It is one of the Netherlands’ most picturesque Hanseatic towns. Once a bustling fishing village on the Zuiderzee, today it is the ultimate destination for tourists and lovers of culture and water sports.
Whether you enjoy cosy streets, museums, water sports, culinary delights or the convivial atmosphere of a terrace, Elburg is always the place to be.
Enjoying time together is at the heart of Elburg. Hop on a bike and explore the nature of the Noord-Veluwe, or take a boat trip on a historic botter. Settle down on a cosy terrace, sample local delicacies or discover the surprising boutiques and museums. There are plenty of activities for families: treasure hunts, city escape games and events that bring young and old together.
The surrounding area offers peace and space: vast heathlands, forests and the water invite you to relax and seek adventure. Annual events, such as the Botter Days, Fortress Days and the Veluwe Walking and Cycling Days, also provide opportunities for socialising and experiencing the area.
Oldebroek, between two Hanseatic towns
Oldebroek extends a warm welcome to you! Here you’ll find peace, space and a friendly atmosphere, and the Veluwe countryside is simply stunning. As well as woods and heathland, there are the beautiful Randmeren lakes, where you can go canoeing, and you can visit the unique meadow bird area, the Oosterwolde polder. The number of walking and cycling routes seems endless, and the ‘klompenpaden’ (clog paths) are definitely worth a visit!
The people here are friendly and hospitable, and you’ll find your well-deserved peace and quiet with plenty of entertainment within cycling distance. With Hanseatic towns such as Hattem and Elburg as neighbours, the area also boasts a rich cultural history. Cycle past country estates, visit the fruit orchard or take a stroll along one of the clog paths.
The range of shops is comprehensive and practical, featuring many local businesses that truly care about their customers. In Hattemerbroek, for example, you’ll still find a genuine clog shop, whilst the boutiques and homeware shops are ready to offer personalised advice. Parking is free everywhere and is usually available right outside the door. Try the Oldebroeker ‘klinkertje’, a delicious local speciality baked with passion by the local bakers, or the traditionally prepared products from the butchers, and discover the many regional specialities such as Jokkebrok beer or delicious homemade ice cream.
