The Veluwe is not only a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, but also a fantastic destination for families. Near Hoenderloo you will find child-friendly outings, adventurous play nature and cosy places to eat. In this article we share the most fun activities for children near Hoenderloo, including some nice indoor options for rainy days.
1. Wildlife spotting in National Park De Hoge Veluwe
Nothing is as exciting as searching together for red deer, wild boar or mouflons. In National Park De Hoge Veluwe, just 4 kilometres from Holiday Park De Woeste Hoogte, there are several wildlife observation points where you can see animals in the wild with a bit of luck. Go early in the morning or at sunset, then the chance is greatest!
Besides spotting wildlife, the park itself is a huge playground. Be sure to visit the Museonder, the first underground museum in the world. Here children literally descend into the soil and discover everything that lives underground, from tree roots to bones of animals that lived here thousands of years ago.
Tip: Bring binoculars and be quiet, then you increase your chances of spotting animals.
2. Apenheul - monkeys roaming freely among visitors
A unique experience for young and old: at Apenheul in Apeldoorn, monkeys roam freely among visitors! Children can get up close to various monkey species here. Especially the squirrel monkeys are curious and often come very close (watch your bags!).
The park is beautifully green and wooded, which makes it a nice place even on hot days. In addition to monkey watching, there are educational presentations throughout the park where caretakers tell about the animals. Children can release their energy in the many playgrounds, and there is a special scavenger hunt that leads them through the park. An educational and fun day out.
3. Burgers' Zoo - covered worlds and animals
Burgers' Zoo in Arnhem is one of the most beautiful zoos in Europe and offers a world trip in one day. The park is known for its "Eco-displays", where natural habitats have been recreated on a large scale.
Dive into the humid warmth of the Bush, a complete tropical rainforest where birds and lizards roam freely. Explore the Desert, a rocky desert inspired by Arizona, and admire the colorful fish in the Ocean, the huge coral reef aquarium. For children there is also the Avonturenland playground and the indoor Kids Jungle. Because a large part is covered, this is the perfect outing in changeable weather.
4. Climbing Forest Veluwe - adventurous climbing among the trees
For active children, Climbing Forest Veluwe in Apeldoorn is highly recommended. Here they can fully let go high in the trees. There are different routes with increasing difficulty levels, so there is a suitable challenge for everyone.
For the little ones (from 6 years and 1.20m) there is the Junior Climbing Forest, where they can get used to climbing at a safe height. For the older daredevils there are routes that go up to 18 meters high! Zip lines, wobbly bridges and nets ensure plenty of adrenaline. Safety comes first with a continuous belay system, so parents can watch with peace of mind (or climb along!).
5. Julianatoren - theme park for the whole family
Julianatoren in Apeldoorn is the theme park for families with children up to about 10 years old. The park is compact and well-arranged, so you can easily keep an eye on the children and don't have to walk for miles.
With more than 60 attractions there is plenty to experience: from a quiet ride in the horse track or the elephant carousel for the little ones, to the exciting roller coaster "Jul's Rollerskates" for the slightly older children. The mascots Jul and Julia the Mouse give cheerful shows daily and are always up for a meet & greet and a photo. A cosy and carefree day out.
6. Children's outing in bad weather: indoor play and discovery
Is it raining? No problem. Near Hoenderloo there are plenty of indoor activities:
Spelerij en Uitvinderij in Dieren - This is not a standard playground, but a place where creativity is central. In the "Uitvinderij" (Invention Factory), children (and adults!) can work with machines themselves to make artworks from plexiglass or metal, cut polystyrene figures or even bake their own bread rolls. The "Spelerij" outside is full of unique, self-invented play equipment that invites cooperation and discovery.
Children's Farm Binky in Hoenderloo - A little paradise for young children. Besides cuddling with goats, rabbits and pigs, there is an incredible amount to play. There are various playgrounds, a traffic square with go-karts and you can pedal boats in the shape of swans. In worse weather there is a nice indoor play area.
Kröller-Müller Museum in National Park De Hoge Veluwe - Perhaps not the first thing you think of with children, but this museum is surprisingly fun! There is a special "dice game" scavenger hunt that lets children look at art in an interactive way. Outside in the huge sculpture garden they can run around and some artworks are even meant to be climbed on or entered, like the "Jardin d'émail".
So there is always something fun to do, even when the weather is not cooperating.
7. Walking and playing from Holiday Park De Woeste Hoogte
Staying at holiday home Woeste Hoogte nr 15? Then the adventures are literally on your doorstep. From the house you can walk directly into the forest for a child-friendly walk. Bring binoculars, collect autumn leaves or build a hut from branches together. Simple, but unforgettable.
The holiday park itself also has animation activities during holidays and in high season for children aged 4-12. In addition, there is a covered swimming pool and play equipment in the park.
Finally: the Veluwe never gets boring
Whether it's sunny or raining, there are always fun activities for children near Hoenderloo. From exploring in the forest to indoor play or animal spotting, nature and surroundings provide something new every season.
View our holiday home Woeste Hoogte nr 15. The ideal starting point for your family holiday full of adventure and nature on the Veluwe.