The Heathlands of Vierhouten

This route goes along a babbling brook. Whether it is called the Hierdensche, Leuvenumsche or the Staverdensche Beek depends on which village you are in. The forest is rich in wildlife, trees and even fruit. Also, it is a breeding ground for dozens of species of birds. With a little luck, you might even come across a kingfisher or a bald eagle. For lovers of architecture, there are numerous old water mills along the stream. Further along the route you will pass villages and hamlets such as Hulshorst and Zoom. In Nunspeet you can look out over the Veluwe and Flevoland from the 30-meter high watchtower at the Veluwe transferium. From Nunspeet you dive back into the greenery until deep in the woods you come across the Hiding Lodge, located on the 'Pas-Opweg'. Here was in World War II "The Hidden Village", a refuge for the Jews. Also the forests around Vierhouten you can find rare wildlife such as the badger and the flying deer. Arriving in Elspeet you can enjoy a vast heathland. There you can take a look at the burial mounds or at the Castle Staverden.