Crown Estate Het Loo
Vast forests, rolling heathlands, and surprising tranquility: Kroondomein Het Loo is one of the largest contiguous nature reserves in the Netherlands. Located on the west side of Apeldoorn, the estate is a popular destination for walkers, cyclists, and nature lovers. Whether you are looking for a long walk, wildlife spotting, or simply to enjoy the silence, you have come to the right place.
What is Crown Estate Het Loo?
The Het Loo Crown Estate covers over 10,000 hectares and consists of vast forests, heathlands, sand drifts, and historic estates. Part of the area is owned by the Dutch State and is used by the King as a private estate.
The area is part of the Veluwe and is known for its rich nature and high chance of spotting wild animals, such as red deer, wild boars, and roe deer.
Het Loo Palace
The Het Loo Crown Estate is located next to Het Loo Palace, but offers a very different experience. While you discover royal history at the palace, in the Crown Estate you enjoy peace, nature, and endless walking opportunities.
As a result, both locations can be perfectly combined during a day out in Apeldoorn.
Walking in the Het Loo Royal Estate
For hikers, Kroondomein Het Loo is a true paradise. Various marked walking routes wind through varied landscapes, where you can enjoy dense forests, open heathland, and quiet forest paths along the way. Thanks to the size of the area, you can choose between short walks and extensive day trips.
Are you looking for hiking inspiration? Then also check out our page about hiking on the Veluwe or discover the most beautiful nature reserves on the Veluwe.
Wildlife spotting in Kroondomein Het Loo
Royal Estate Het Loo is one of the best places on the Veluwe to spot wildlife. Especially early in the morning and towards sunset, there is a good chance you will see red deer, roe deer, or wild boars. During the rutting season in September and October, the roaring red deer can regularly be heard, making a visit extra special.
When is Kroondomein Het Loo open?
The greater part of Kroondomein Het Loo is accessible to walkers and cyclists year-round. However, a section of the nature reserve is temporarily closed annually, usually from mid-September to the end of December. During this period, nature is given the necessary rest, and disturbance to wildlife during the rutting season is limited.
Always check the current opening hours and any walking routes on the official website of Kroondomein Het Loo before your visit. This way, you won't be faced with any surprises.
Stay overnight near Kroondomein Het Loo
Do you want to enjoy peace and nature to the fullest? Then choose an overnight stay near Kroondomein Het Loo. Bastion Hotel Apeldoorn Het Loo is located a five-minute walk from the nature reserve and serves as an ideal base for a weekend on the Veluwe.
After a day of hiking or cycling, unwind wonderfully in a comfortable hotel room. Start the next morning with a hearty breakfast and then head back into nature to discover even more of Kroondomein Het Loo and the surrounding area.
