With its diverse landscapes, the Veluwe is an endless source of discoveries. The region effortlessly combines our most-visited national park with tropical-looking lakes such as the Zandenplas and the iconic Radio Kootwijk.
Yet one specific nature reserve takes the crown when it comes to unspoiled magic. About an hour’s drive from Amsterdam lies the Speulder and Sprielderbos, an ancient woodland spanning no less than 3,300 hectares.
Behind the dense canopy lies a fascinating world. From prehistoric secrets and a sunken monastery to rare forest dwellers: this area offers everything you need for an unforgettable journey of discovery.
One of the oldest forests in the Netherlands
The Speulder and Sprielder Woods are among the oldest nature reserves in the Netherlands. People have been using this area since 5,000 B.C. While the Speulder Woods once served asa “gentlemen’s forest” for elite hunting, the Sprielder Woods were the “farmers’ forest” for firewood. The historic boundary line “De Laak” still serves as a reminder of this division.
Anyone wandering through the area today is literally stepping into a rich past. Nestled amid the greenery, you’ll find dozens of prehistoric burial mounds from the Bell Beaker culture, which are more than 4,000 years old.
Fairytale-like “dancing” trees and a sunken monastery
In one section of the Speulderbos, you’ll find about 300 hectares of “dancing” trees. Medieval loggers left the crooked trunks—which they considered unusable—standing. These trees then grew freely toward the sunlight, creating an enchanting and whimsical canopy that looks especially magical in sunlight and fog.
A little further on, the forest conceals the Solse Gat. Geologists call it a pingo ruin from the Ice Age, but the locals prefer to tell the story of the sunken monastery. The monks’ ghosts are said to still wander around the deep pit.
Come face to face with red deer, wild boars, and rare birds of prey
Thanks to the variety of old and young trees, the forest provides a perfect habitat for wildlife. Both red deer and wild boars feel right at home here. Anyone who walks quietly through the area at dusk or takes a seat at one of the wildlife viewing screens has a good chance of spotting this majestic wildlife in the wild.
In addition to large game, the dense canopy is also home to rarer forest dwellers. Among the branches and on the forest floor live, among others, the pine marten, the badger, and birds of prey such as the honey buzzard and the goshawk.
