10x special and hidden gems in the Netherlands

The undiscovered places in the Netherlands you shouldn't miss!

Amsterdam, Scheveningen, Noordwijk aan Zee, the Wadden Islands... These are frequently visited places in the Netherlands that you may have already visited. And that is not surprising, as the Netherlands is known for its charming canals, historic cities and watery landscapes. We often pick out tourist spots for a day, or maybe a weekend trip. Yet there are still countless hidden spots that are often overlooked. In this blog, discover 10 lesser-known Dutch places that are absolutely worth a visit.

A blog by parkvakanties.nl in cooperation with TopParken.

Lage Vuursche

Lage Vuursche is a charming and picturesque village located in the province of Utrecht, surrounded by lush forests and regal landscapes. Lage Vuursche is known for its peaceful and idyllic atmosphere, making it a popular destination. The village is mainly known for Drakensteyn Castle, the former residence of Princess Beatrix. Surrounded by extensive gardens, the castle adds to Lage Vuursche's regal appeal. The surrounding woods and nature reserves are great for hiking and cycling, and in the village itself you can visit one of the tea houses and pancake houses to recharge your batteries. Looking for a sporty trip? Then visit the miniature golf gardens with the most beautiful miniature golf courses in Europe. You can find them just in our own country! Complete your visit to Lage Vuursche and spend the night in a luxury holiday home surrounded by nature.

© VVV Op de Heuvelrug

Thorn

Thorn, located in northern Limburg, is also known as "The white town". This is because this picturesque town is known for its many characteristic, white-painted houses and narrow streets. This striking architecture contributes to Thorn's unique atmosphere and appearance. There is plenty to do in Thorn during a weekend or a few days away: stroll through the white town, taste the wines of Thorn or cycle along the river Maas and the Limburg countryside. The narrow cobbled streets and whitewashed houses secretly give you that Mediterranean feel, especially with sunshine and a blue sky: as if you were walking in a Greek or Spanish town!

© VVV Thorn

Valkenburg

Green hills, a cable car and a toboggan run: 3 words that probably immediately make you think of a holiday in Austria. But what if we said we also have this in our own little country? Among moss-green hills, in the middle of the beautiful hilly landscape of South Limburg, you'll find Valkenburg. If you're planning to visit Valkenburg, it's advisable to go for a weekend or longer, as there is so much for young and old to experience in this area. Stay at Résidence Valkenburg, for example, and discover everything this marl city has to offer, from caves and art and culture to boutiques, restaurants and sights. Tip: if you want to see more of Limburg, such as Thorn, Résidence Valkenburg is also the perfect base!

Utrechtse Heuvelrug

Just outside the Randstad is the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. In National Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug, you cycle or walk past rivers, ancient forests, sand drifts and heathlands. Not a fan of nature? Even then you can entertain yourself for hours on the Heuvelrug. Visit numerous castles and country houses, such as Soestdijk Palace, Amerongen Castle and Zeist Castle. Discover all about Dutch history at the Pyramid of Austerlitz and the National Military Museum. Too many activities for one day? Stay overnight at Résidence Lage Vuursche, to explore the Utrechtse Heuvelrug with new energy the next day.

© VVV Op de Heuvelrug

De Rijp

De Rijp is a historic town located on a former island in the province of North Holland. In this 'hidden location' you will find peace, space, nature, monuments, fun museums and cosy cafés. De Rijp is known for its preserved historic character and offers a glimpse into the Netherlands' past. During your visit you'll pass homes typical of Zaandam and several national monuments. You can also discover De Rijp from the water: join a canal cruise, sail through the narrow ditches and lakes of the Eilandspolder or take a ride on a sup. Make your quality time in North Holland even more special by spending the night in a holiday home surrounded by water. Park Westerkogge is located near De Rijp, the Markermeer and Hoorn; the ideal location for both a relaxing, and an active weekend away.

Central point of the Netherlands

Did you know that the geographical centre of the Netherlands is in Lunteren, in the province of Gelderland? You will recognise the centre point by a boulder, which is located exactly in the middle of the Netherlands. The area around the boulder, the Goudsberg, has a lot of fun things to offer for a day, or weekend getaway: walk through the woods of the Luntersche Buurtbosch or just enjoy the beautiful view of Gelderse Vallei. Or, take a selfie at the famous boulder and keep the home front informed from the middle of the Netherlands! Want to be able to say you slept near the centre of the Netherlands? Even that is possible! Near this midpoint you will find Landgoed de Scheleberg, a beautiful holiday park for young and old. Book a luxury holiday home to unwind on the Veluwe.

De IJzeren Man

De IJzeren man is the place where fun, hospitality and adventure come together in cosy Brabant. De IJzeren man is a recreational lake located in Vught and offers year-round activities. In summer, this recreational lake is perfect for beach and water fun. Hire a pedal boat, lounge on a beach bed or order refreshing drinks at the Strandhuys. The little ones will also have hours of fun with various water activities and a large playground. In the beach pool, you will find plenty of play equipment, water slides and diving platforms. Guaranteed water fun for young and old! Even when the weather is not so good, there is plenty to do at the IJzeren man: think about a walk on the beach, but also fully organised group outings in the climbing forest, or just a delicious drink in the family restaurant. After a busy day full of activities, you would prefer to shower as soon as possible and get ready for the next day: this is possible at the nearby holiday park Résidence de Leuvert!

Ginkelse Heide

The Ginkelse Heide is a beautiful nature reserve in Ede. Here you can have fun all year round: walking, mountain biking, horse riding and maybe even spotting the Big Five of the Veluwe. Did you know that the Ginkelse Heide is the habitat for many red deer, wild boar, sheep and roe deer? Apart from being a special nature reserve, this heath is also a historical site. During Operation Market Garden in World War II, hundreds of Allied paratroopers landed on the Ginkelse Heide. This is commemorated and re-enacted every year during the Airborne commemoration. Impressive! The heath is at its most beautiful from mid-August to mid-September: then the Ginkelse Heide is in bloom and the bushes turn purple. The ideal time to spend a few days at Bospark Ede or Recreatiepark 't Gelloo. These two holiday parks are the ideal year-round base for a walking or cycling holiday on the Veluwe.

Bredevoort

Bredevoort, also known as the Book Town, is a historic fortified town in the Achterhoek region. This charming and lively little town has an abundance of second-hand book shops, so ideal if you are a real book lover! In addition, Bredevoort is a beautiful town where you can stroll through centuries-old streets, the old city canal and the beautiful fortress park. Bredevoort has something for everyone, whether you come for the historical splendour, the book market or just to enjoy the welcoming atmosphere. There is also plenty to do for art and culture lovers: visit various art studios, the Koppelkerk church or various concerts that are organised. Want to see more of the Achterhoek? Then book a holiday home or recreation villa at Résidence Lichtenvoorde, possibly with its own wellness facilities or even a private swimming pool for extra luxury.

© Hip and style photography

Radio Kootwijk

Radio Kootwijk, a monumental transmitter building, is located in a protected nature reserve in the heart of the Veluwe. It is best known for its former transmitter park, built in the early 20th century for wireless communication with the Dutch East Indies. The area around Radio Kootwijk is characterised by silence and space, as this was necessary for undisturbed connections and free development of nature. Therefore, you will find a variety of flora and fauna around this masterpiece and it is one of the most valuable nature reserves in Europe. There are numerous guided activities in and around Radio Kootwijk throughout the year, but you can also visit the building on your own. Stroll through the impressive corridors, admire architectural details and learn more about the role Radio Kootwijk played in the world of wireless communication. Discover Radio Kootwijk and its nature reserve from Recreatiepark Beekbergen and Resort Veluwe, both about a 20-minute drive from the transmitter building.

Spend the night at or near these unique locations

Are you curious about one, or perhaps more, of these hidden gems in the Netherlands? Then spend the night at one of the TopParken holiday parks nearby. Enjoy comfortable holiday homes, situated at unique locations throughout the Netherlands. In addition, our holiday parks offer facilities such as indoor and outdoor swimming pools, playgrounds, restaurants, sports fields and game rooms. Together, we make valuable holiday memories.