Achterhoek Scenic Drive

The Achterhoek Scenic Drive is an unforgettable journey through the Dutch countryside, taking you from Doesburg to Lochem. Along the way, you’ll pass through the charming towns of Brummen and Zutphen, both of which offer plenty of attractions and activities to explore. The route is approximately 51 km and takes around one day to complete. This makes it the perfect option for a weekend getaway or a day trip. The best time of year to drive this route is between late spring and early autumn, when the weather is at its most pleasant and the countryside is lush and green. The roads along the route are generally in excellent condition, although some can be narrow in places. Despite this, the Achterhoek Scenic Drive is suitable for all drivers, offering a high level of experience and memories at a moderate budget.

Doesburg is a beautiful Dutch town located in the Achterhoek region of the Netherlands. Its rich history, stunning architecture and quaint charm make it the perfect starting point to the Achterhoek Scenic Drive. Start your journey with a visit to Doesburg's Old Town, with its centuries-old churches, cobblestone streets, and traditional Dutch houses. Tour the Grote Kerk, a 14th century Gothic church, or the St. Walburgiskerk, a 15th century Gothic church. Explore the picturesque streets of the old town and enjoy the traditional Dutch culture. The nearest international airport to Doesburg is Schiphol Airport (IATA: AMS), located in Amsterdam. Car rentals are available at the airport, so you can easily pick up a car and start your road trip to Doesburg. Continue your journey to the Achterhoek Scenic Drive with a visit to the Doesburg Castle, built in the 13th century. Explore the castle, the gardens, and the surrounding area to see the beautiful Dutch countryside. The views are stunning, and you will be able to appreciate the beauty of the Netherlands. Finally, visit the Stadsmuseum Doesburg to learn more about the history of the town. You can also explore the many museums and galleries in the area to get a better understanding of the culture and history of the region. Doesburg is the perfect starting point for the Achterhoek Scenic Drive, offering stunning views, fascinating historical sites, and plenty of opportunities to explore the Dutch culture. Pick up a car at Schiphol Airport and begin your journey to Doesburg.

Embark on an exciting road trip from Doesburg to Brummen, only 11km apart and a driving time of fewer than 1 hour. Start your journey in Doesburg, the city of castles, by visiting the impressive Doesburg Castle, built in the 14th century. Then, you can explore the city centre and admire the beautiful architecture of the old buildings. Don’t forget to visit the Grote Kerk, a beautiful gothic church. Continue your journey to Brummen, a small town surrounded by forests and meadows. Here, you can visit the Brummense Molen, a 19th-century windmill, and the beautiful Protestant Church, built in the 13th century. You can also enjoy a stroll in the nearby nature reserve, where you can admire the stunning landscapes. This is only one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, don’t forget to check it out and enjoy your road trip from Doesburg to Brummen!

Start your road trip in Brummen, Netherlands and explore the beautiful landscape of Bronkhorst and Zutphen. This 16km journey will take you less than an hour to complete and is a great way to experience the Netherlands. On your way you will pass through Bronkhorst and can take in the scenic views of the countryside. You will also cross a ferry, so make sure to keep an eye out. Be aware that some sections of the road will be narrow, so take extra care when driving. Make sure to take the time to explore the interesting attractions in both Bronkhorst and Zutphen. You can find more information on recommended attractions, accommodation, restaurants and campsites in the Itinerary of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for a memorable road trip experience!

Embark on an exciting road trip from Zutphen,Netherlands to Lochem, a 24 km journey that will take you less than one hour. This road trip takes you through the quaint and picturesque towns of Vorden and Lochem. Vorden is a beautiful town with an old castle and a 12th century church. Take a stroll through the cobbled streets, visit the castle museum, and enjoy a meal in one of the traditional restaurants. Lochem is a charming town with a unique atmosphere. Here you can explore the old town, visit the town hall, and admire the beautiful churches. Visit the Lochemse Berg, a nature reserve with forests and meadows, and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the scenic roads that take you through these towns. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please consult the "Itinerary" section of this stage.

Lochem is the perfect ending point for an adventurous road trip through the Achterhoek region. This small town in the Netherlands is a great spot for visitors who appreciate small-town charm and scenic beauty. Located in the province of Gelderland, it is known for its traditional buildings, friendly people, and beautiful surroundings. The downtown area of Lochem is full of historic buildings, including the 13th century St. Pancratius Church, the Town Hall, and the old city wall. Just outside the town, visitors can explore several nearby castles and windmills. The nearby nature reserves offer plenty of activities to explore, including hiking, biking, and bird watching. For those looking for some relaxation, the outdoor cafes in Lochem are the perfect place to sit and enjoy the Dutch sunshine. For those planning to visit by car, the Achterhoek Scenic Drive is the perfect way to get to Lochem. The drive is full of picturesque views, interesting stops, and plenty of opportunities to explore the region. The drive ends in Lochem, a city that is full of small-town charm and amazing attractions. For those flying in, the closest international airport is Schiphol Airport (AMS). From there, it is easy to get to Lochem by car, bus, or train. End your road trip in Lochem and experience the beauty of the Netherlands. This small town is full of history, culture, and plenty of attractions to enjoy.

Before you set off

The Achterhoek Scenic Drive offers a captivating journey into the heart of the Netherlands' countryside, starting from the historic town of Doesburg and ending in the charming city of Lochem. Spanning approximately 51 km, this route is perfect for a leisurely day Trip or a relaxing weekend getaway, taking travelers through enchanting towns and verdant landscapes characterized by traditional Dutch windmills, castles, and farms.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Along the route, travelers will encounter the well-preserved towns of Brummen and Zutphen, each boasting a rich tapestry of history and culture. In Brummen, visitors can admire the elegant manor houses and estates, while Zutphen, known as one of the oldest cities in the Netherlands, invites exploration with its medieval city center, ancient city walls, and the stunning St. Walburgis Church. Additional highlights include the outdoor museum 'Erve Kots' in Lievelde, showcasing rural life in the Achterhoek, and the Huis Verwolde in Laren, a classical manor house surrounded by an English landscape garden.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time to embark on the Achterhoek Scenic Drive is from late spring to early autumn when the weather is pleasant and the countryside blooms with color. During this period, fields of wildflowers and active wildlife add to the scenic beauty, making for an idyllic driving experience.

Potential Risks:

The Roads along the Achterhoek Scenic Drive are generally well-maintained, though some stretches may be narrow and winding, necessitating cautious driving. These conditions contribute to the overall charm of the drive and are easily navigable for drivers of all skill levels.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

The journey is budget-friendly, offering a range of activities and sights that won't break the bank. With the entire route doable within a day, it's an excellent choice for travelers with time constraints, yet it also provides numerous opportunities for extended stops to delve deeper into the area's culture and history.

A good choice for:

Embarking on the Achterhoek Scenic Drive is an unforgettable experience, providing a window into the soul of the Dutch countryside. It's a journey replete with opportunities to immerse oneself in the natural beauty, historical depth, and cultural vibrancy of the region. Whether it's the panoramic views, the warm hospitality of the locals, or the serene pace of life, the Achterhoek Scenic Drive is a testament to the enduring allure of the Netherlands.