Just a few kilometers outside Zeist lies Soesterduinen, a stunning natural reserve of open
sand plains, pine forests, and rolling dunes. It’s one of the most unique landscapes in the
Utrecht region, offering breathtaking views and endless opportunities for hiking, cycling,
and photography. Formed thousands of years ago by shifting sands, Soesterduinen is now
a protected area where visitors can experience the beauty of the Dutch inland dunes — a
rare and peaceful escape for nature lovers.
- 🏖️ Explore vast sandy plains 🏜️ and forest walking trails 🌲🗺️
- 🌅 Capture stunning sunrise 🌄 and sunset photographs 🧡📸
- 🏃 Enjoy hiking 🚶♀️ or jogging 💪 along the circular dune paths 🌐✅
- 🧺 Have a picnic 🍎 or relax 🧘♀️ under the pine trees 🌲😌
- 🐇 Spot local wildlife 🐦 like rabbits and forest birds 👀💚
- 🚗 From Zeist ⏱️: 20 minutes by car 💨 or 40 minutes by bicycle 🚴♂️✅
- 🚂 By Train 🚶♀️: Stop at Soest Zuid Station 📍, then walk or cycle 2 km to the dunes 🗺️👍
- 🅿️ By Car 💰: Parking available at Soesterbergsestraat or Foekenlaan ✅👍
- 🚲 By Bicycle 🛣️: Scenic routes 🗺️ connect Zeist, Austerlitz, and Soest 🚴♂️✅
- 💧 Bring water ☀️ and sunscreen 🧴 — the dunes can get hot on sunny days 🥵⚠️
- 👟 Wear comfortable shoes 🥾 for sandy terrain 👣✅
- ⏰ Visit on weekdays 🤫 for fewer crowds 😌👍
- ⚠️ Stay on marked paths 🐾 to protect the natural habitat 🌿💚
- 2:00 PM – Arrive 🧭 and walk 🚶♀️ through the forest trail 🌲 to the dunes 🏖️💨
- 3:00 PM – Photography session 📸 or rest 🧘♀️ at a shaded spot 🌳✅
- 4:00 PM – Enjoy a picnic 🧺 and relax 😌 before returning 👋
