Amelisweerd and Rhijnauwen – green estates right next to the city
Just east of Utrecht, only 10–15 minutes by bike from Utrecht Central Station, lies one of the city’s most loved green areas: Amelisweerd and Rhijnauwen. These connected estates together form a beautiful recreational landscape that attracts visitors all year round.
The atmosphere is special. Old deciduous forests alternate with open meadows, historic forts of the New Dutch Waterline and popular picnic spots along the Kromme Rijn river. It feels like stepping into another era, while the city remains close by. The rich history of these estates, once owned by wealthy Utrecht families, is still visible in the stately avenues and monumental trees.
Walking routes
Route | Distance | Starting point | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
Short loop walk | approx. 5 km | Theehuis Rhijnauwen | Beginner-friendly, along the Kromme Rijn |
Extended route | approx. 10 km | Bunnik parking area | Via Fort Rhijnauwen and both estates |
Clog path | approx. 12 km | Bunnik town centre | Combination of nature and villages |
Cycling along the Kromme Rijn
A scenic cycling path follows the Kromme Rijn towards Bunnik and Werkhoven. It is perfect for an evening ride of 15–25 km after work. The route is largely car-free and passes orchards, meadows and historic farmhouses.
For residents of studios and apartments in Utrecht East or the city centre, this nature area is easily accessible. After work or study, you can be here in no time.
Practical tips:
Best seasons: spring (blossom) and late summer (golden colours)
Weekends can be busy, early mornings or weekdays are quieter
Theehuis Rhijnauwen is a great stop for coffee or lunch
Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park – forests, hills and heathland
Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park is the crown jewel of the province and the only national park in the region. Stretching from Rhenen to beyond Hilversum, it offers something rare in the Randstad: real elevation changes, extensive forests and purple heathlands.
Formed as a glacial ridge during the penultimate ice age, the area now features a diverse ecosystem with sand dunes, ancient burial mounds and rare plants and birds. There are more than 56 walking routes, ranging from 2 to 21 km, suitable for both short family walks and challenging day hikes.
Three highlights to explore
Kaapse Bossen (Doorn)
Located in the heart of the ridge, the Kaapse Bossen feature the De Kaap lookout tower. From this 25-metre-high tower you can enjoy views over forests and heathland, and on clear days even spot Utrecht’s Dom Tower. Routes range from 2 to 9 km.
Amerongse Forest
Home to the Amerongse Berg, at 69.2 metres the highest point in the province. The steeper paths offer more challenge. Nearby Amerongen Castle allows you to combine nature and culture.
Lage Vuursche and De Stulp
This area combines dense forests with one of the most beautiful heathlands in the Netherlands: the Stulpse Heide. The picturesque village of Lage Vuursche offers cosy cafés for a break after your walk.
Walking and cycling
The walking routes are well marked and suitable for all levels. Families can enjoy 3–5 km loops, while experienced hikers can choose routes of 15–20 km across the ridge. Cyclists will find gentle climbs that are unique in the Netherlands. Mountain bikers can use official MTB trails, some requiring a Utrechtse Heuvelrug permit.
Accessibility from Utrecht
Transport | Destination | Travel time |
Car | Zeist / Doorn | 20–30 minutes |
Bicycle | Zeist | 30–40 minutes |
Public transport | Driebergen-Zeist | 25–35 minutes |
Bicycle | Lage Vuursche | 45–60 minutes |
Soester Duinen – endless sand and playful walking routes
North of Utrecht near Soest lies a landscape you rarely encounter in the Netherlands: the Soester Duinen. This is the largest drifting sand area in the province, with nearly 200 hectares of open sand plains, heath and forest edges. It feels like a miniature desert, complete with dunes you can climb and explore.
Walking through sand and heath is a unique experience. The popular NS walking route “Lange Duinen” starts at Soest Zuid station and covers around 10–12 km. Shorter routes of 4–6 km are ideal for families.
Why this area stands out:
Fine sand ideal for barefoot walking
Open areas for picnics and kite flying
Photogenic landscapes with dunes and heath
Beautiful mushrooms in autumn
Rich birdlife and special plant species
Cycling routes of 40–50 km connect the dunes with Den Dolder, Bilthoven and Amersfoort. The area is easily reached by train in 20–25 minutes or by bike in 45–60 minutes, making it ideal for residents without a car.
The Kromme Rijn is a winding river branch stretching about 20 km from Utrecht via Bunnik and Odijk to Wijk bij Duurstede. It forms the backbone of one of the most scenic walking and cycling areas in the region, rich in castles, historic estates and wide river floodplains.
This landscape feels distinctly rural, even though it starts right at the edge of the city. You move through a patchwork of orchards, grasslands, old dike roads and monumental country houses, with the river constantly guiding your route. Especially in spring and late summer, the area is at its most beautiful.
Walking the Kromme Rijn Path
For experienced walkers, the Kromme Rijn Path is a highlight. This long-distance trail stretches approximately 29 km from Utrecht to Wijk bij Duurstede. You do not need to complete it in one go – stages of 8–15 km are ideal and easy to combine with public transport.
Along the way, you pass:
Fort Rhijnauwen, part of the New Dutch Waterline
Historic estates and manor houses
Fruit orchards that bloom spectacularly in spring
Quiet riverbanks with birds and grazing cattle
Cycling routes along river and dikes
Cyclists often choose a loop of 40–50 km that runs from Utrecht via Bunnik and Werkhoven to Wijk bij Duurstede, returning via the Lek dike. This route combines water landscapes, cultural heritage and wide open views.
Some dike sections are narrow and shared with cars, but traffic is generally calm. The variety keeps the ride interesting, from shaded tree-lined stretches to open river scenery.
For residents of Change homes in Utrecht South-East, such as Rijnsweerd or Lunetten, the Kromme Rijn area is just minutes away by bike. An evening ride or walk along the river easily becomes part of a weekly routine.
