Around Utrecht Heuvelrug NP Scenic Drive

Around Utrecht Heuvelrug NP Scenic Drive is a 58 km road trip that starts in Zeist, Netherlands and ends in Cothen, Netherlands. It is recommended to take one day to complete the drive and the best time of year to take the trip is in the spring and summer months. The road conditions are excellent, though some of the roads along the route are narrow. This road trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed with a moderate budget. Enjoy the sights of Soest and Leersum along the way!

Zeist is a small city in the Netherlands located in the province of Utrecht. It is the starting point of the "Around Utrecht Heuvelrug NP Scenic Drive" road trip that takes you through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes of the country. Zeist has a lot of interesting sights to visit, such as the Slot Zeist castle, the Hofwijck mansion, and the Kasteel de Haar castle. There are also several parks and nature reserves in the city, where you can take a peaceful stroll and admire the natural beauty of the area. The closest international airport to Zeist is Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (IATA code: AMS). There are several car rental companies at the airport, so it is easy to get a car to start the "Around Utrecht Heuvelrug NP Scenic Drive" road trip. Zeist is the perfect starting point for a beautiful road trip through some of the most picturesque parts of the Netherlands. With its many sights and attractions, it is a great place to spend a few days before starting the journey.

Start your road trip adventure with a drive from Zeist to Soest. This 18 km journey will take you less than an hour and will take you through the most scenic roads and historical sites. Along the way, you will pass through the town of Baarn and the village of Eemnes, both of which have a rich history and many attractions to explore. You will also pass by the beautiful Loosdrechtse Plassen, a series of interconnected lakes and canals that are perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing. Once you reach Soest, you can visit the Soesterberg Air Base, a former military airbase that has since been converted into a museum. Here, you can learn about the history of the airbase and its role in the Second World War. You can also visit the nearby Soestdijk Palace, the former residence of the Dutch royal family. The palace is now open to the public and offers tours of its gardens and grounds. For those looking for a more relaxing experience, the nearby town of Amersfoort is the perfect place to spend an afternoon. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll through the city’s cobblestone streets and admire its many historic buildings. If you are looking for a great way to end your road trip, Soest is the perfect place. Here, you can enjoy a meal at one of the city’s many restaurants or take in the views from one of its many parks. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage.

Are you ready for an exciting road trip? Start in Soest, Netherlands and enjoy the scenic route to Leersum, a 29 km drive that will take you less than an hour. Along the way, you'll pass through Soesterberg, a charming village with a rich history and plenty of places to explore. Keep an eye out for narrow sections of the road as you make your way through the countryside. When you reach Leersum, you'll be rewarded with stunning views and a wealth of attractions. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Are you ready for an exciting road trip from Leersum to Cothen? This 12 km journey will take you less than an hour to complete and will take you through some of the most beautiful Dutch landscape. As you drive, you will be surrounded by lush green fields and beautiful forests. The road is narrow in sections, so make sure you drive carefully. Once you arrive in Cothen, you can explore the historic city centre and visit the Water Tower, a beautiful 19th century structure. You can also visit the nearby castle of Cothen, which is a beautiful example of Dutch architecture. If you are looking for some outdoor activities, take a walk along the banks of the river Vecht or visit the nearby nature reserve. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and have a great road trip from Leersum to Cothen!

Cothen is a charming little town located in the Netherlands and the perfect ending point for an amazing road trip around Utrecht Heuvelrug National Park. This scenic drive will take you through the most beautiful parts of the Netherlands and provide a truly unique experience. Once you arrive in Cothen, you will be able to explore its many attractions. The city center features some of the most charming architecture in the Netherlands, with its cobbled streets and quaint buildings. You can also take in the views of the nearby meadows and forests. There are also many shops and restaurants, making it the perfect place to relax after a long day of sightseeing. In Cothen, you can visit the historic Castle Oud-Cothen, which dates back to the 16th century. You can also explore the nearby nature reserves, take a walk along the canals and experience the local culture. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore the nearby bicycle and walking trails. The closest international airport to Cothen is Schiphol Airport, with the IATA code AMS. From there, you can easily rent a car and begin your journey around Utrecht Heuvelrug National Park. At the end of your trip, you’ll have the perfect ending point in Cothen.

Before you set off

Embark on a captivating 58 km journey with the Around Utrecht Heuvelrug National Park (NP) Scenic Drive, stretching from Zeist to Cothen in the heart of the Netherlands. This Road Trip is perfect for those seeking a day-long escape into the country's scenic landscapes, rich history, and cozy villages.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

Begin your adventure in Zeist, a town with an elegant 17th-century castle, Slot Zeist, before heading towards Soest, a place of peaceful charm and historic churches like the Oude Kerk. Leersum, nestled in the foothills of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, offers access to the national park's diverse ecosystem, including forests, heathlands, and shifting sands. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Pyramid of Austerlitz, an early 19th-century monument with a viewing platform offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Best Time to Go:

Spring and summer months are ideal for this Road Trip, allowing you to witness the breathtaking Dutch tulip fields in bloom and the lush greenery of the Utrecht Heuvelrug NP. The park's flora and fauna are particularly vibrant during this time, with numerous bird species and wildflowers on display.

Potential Risks:

Road conditions are generally excellent, but some narrow sections require careful driving, especially during peak tourist seasons when the Roads can become more congested. Be mindful of cyclists, a common sight in the Netherlands, who often share the Roadways.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

This Scenic Drive is accessible to drivers of all experience levels and offers a moderate-cost excursion. To enhance your experience, ensure your vehicle is in good condition and plan your Trip outside rush hours to avoid traffic. The route is dotted with well-maintained rest stops and picnic areas, making it easy to take breaks and enjoy the natural surroundings.

A good choice for:

The Around Utrecht Heuvelrug NP Scenic Drive presents Roadtrippers with an enchanting mix of cultural heritage and natural splendor. It's a journey through the verdant Dutch countryside, where history and tradition blend seamlessly with the tranquility of nature, providing a quintessentially Dutch Road-Tripping experience.