Explore the Natural Beauty of Gelderland

In the eastern part of the Netherlands, the province of Gelderland offers a landscape that blends history, nature, and modern Dutch life. This expansive province is the largest in the country, stretching from the rolling forests and heathlands of the Veluwe to the fertile river valleys along the Rhine and the Waal. Its diversity is felt in both scenery and culture. In the south, the city of Nijmegen stands as one of Europe’s oldest cities, carrying a lively character and deep roots reaching back to Roman times. Walking through its center, you will find echoes of the past in ancient ruins, medieval streets, and welcoming cafes where students and locals mingle. The annual Four Days Marches draw thousands of walkers and spectators, filling the city with a festive mood each summer.

Venturing north, the landscape transforms into the wild beauty of the Veluwe, a vast area of woodlands, shifting sands, and purple heath. At its heart lies the Hoge Veluwe National Park, a protected space where red deer and wild boar roam among pine forests and open plains. Paths for cyclists and walkers wind quietly through this scenery, offering moments of peace and close contact with Dutch nature. The park is also home to the Kröller-Müller Museum, known for its remarkable collection of Van Gogh paintings and its sculpture garden, making it a place where art and wilderness meet.

Gelderland is also a region of charming towns and villages, many with historic castles and manor houses. Arnhem, the provincial capital, is known for its fashion district and the open-air museum, where visitors can step into the everyday life of Dutch history. The province’s rivers shape the countryside, creating fertile land for orchards and fields of flowers. In spring, the Betuwe region is especially beautiful when the fruit trees bloom, drawing cyclists and photographers who come to enjoy the colors and scents.

The province’s history is marked by both prosperity and struggle. Castles and fortresses recall centuries of defense and trade, while museums and memorials tell stories from the Second World War, when the area was a focal point during Operation Market Garden. Today, Gelderland balances its heritage with a modern, energetic spirit. Local markets, festivals, and outdoor activities keep life vibrant, while quiet corners of nature invite reflection and relaxation. Whether you are drawn by ancient cities, the call of the heath, or the simple beauty of Dutch countryside, Gelderland offers a welcoming glimpse into the varied heart of the Netherlands. Crafted by AI with care. Click to learn about our approach