The Kroondomein Het Loo Forests, located near Apeldoorn, are among the most beautiful
and historic natural areas in the Netherlands. Once part of the royal family’s private
hunting grounds, this vast forest region covers over 10,000 hectares of woodlands, moors,
and rolling hills. Today, the area is open to the public during select months of the year,
offering visitors the chance to experience pristine nature, scenic cycling routes, and
peaceful hiking trails once reserved for Dutch royalty. It’s the perfect destination for
travelers seeking quiet adventure and a deep connection with nature.
- 🥾🌲 Hiking Trails – Walk through serene pine and oak forests with clearly marked paths 🚶♂️.
- 🚴♀️🌳 Cycling Routes – Explore scenic bike trails connecting Paleis Het Loo, Hoog Soeren, and the Veluwe 🚲.
- 🦌🦊🐗 Wildlife Watching – Spot red deer, foxes, and wild boar during early morning or dusk 🌅.
- 👑🌿 Historic Royal Grounds – Discover the landscapes once used by the Dutch royal family for hunting 🏹.
- 📸🌫️ Photography – Capture peaceful forest views, golden leaves, and morning mist 🍂.
- 🚗🛣️ By Car: From Apeldoorn, follow signs to Paleis Het Loo, then continue north into the Kroondomein area 🅿️.
- 🚆🚕 By Train: Take the train to Apeldoorn Station, then rent a bike or take a short taxi ride to the forest entrance 🚲.
- 🚴♂️🌲 By Bike: Follow the cycling paths from Apeldoorn or Paleispark Het Loo into the royal forest 🌳.
- 📅🍂 Visit between September and December — this is the only period open to the public ✔️.
- 💧🥪 Bring water, snacks, and wear sturdy shoes for long hikes 👟.
- 🌧️⚠️ Check local weather before visiting; paths may be muddy after rain ☔.
- 🌱🙏 Respect nature — stay on marked trails and avoid disturbing wildlife 🦌.
- 🕘🥾 9:00 AM – Start from Paleis Het Loo and enter Kroondomein trails 🌲.
- 🕙🚴♀️ 10:00 AM – Enjoy a cycling route through the forest’s open clearings 🌳.
- 🕧🧺 12:30 PM – Picnic in designated rest areas or at a forest café near Hoog Soeren ☕.
- 🕑📸 2:00 PM – Continue hiking or photograph the woodland wildlife 🦊.
- 🕓🏙️ 4:00 PM – Return to Apeldoorn or visit nearby Paleispark 🌿.
