Kaapse Bossen

The Kaapse Bossen are a vast woodland area near Doorn, right in the heart of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. Here you can walk along winding forest paths, historic avenues and past spots with a fascinating history. The De Kaap observation tower is the literal highlight of the area.

The Kaapse Bossen are situated near Doorn and form part of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park. The varied woodland consists of stately beech avenues, winding forest paths, ancient oaks and coniferous forests. Along the way, you’ll pass historic church paths, burial mounds and clearings where birds, mammals and mushrooms have plenty of space to thrive.

The Kaapse Bossen have a rich history dating back to the eighteenth century. Around 1750, the Swellengrebel family purchased the area, which at the time consisted largely of heathland and sand drifts. They named it the Kaapse Bossen, after their past in South Africa. Later, avenues were laid out and distinctive landscape features appeared, such as the Doornse Kei, the Stenen Tafel and a watchtower. The current ‘De Kaap’ watchtower, standing at a height of over 25 metres, offers views across virtually the entire Utrechtse Heuvelrug, with visibility on clear days stretching as far as Utrecht’s Dom Tower and the Lower Rhine.

The Kaapse Bossen clearly illustrate how nature and cultural history are intertwined on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug . As you walk through ancient beech avenues and varied woodland, historic paths, burial mounds and country estates serve as reminders of centuries of human activity. Together with the observation tower and the variations in elevation, this makes the Kaapse Bossen one of the most distinctive nature reserves in the Utrechtse Heuvelrug region.

What is there to do nearby?
The Kaapse Bossen lie between Doorn and Maarn and are linked to various nature and heritage sites. Within a short distance, you’ll find, amongst others:

• De Kaap observation tower;
• De Ruiterberg Estate;
• the Doornse Kei;
• the Stone Table;
• the Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park;
• Various walking and cycling routes that link the Kaapse Bossen with the surrounding nature reserves and villages.

These places can easily be combined during a walk or cycle ride.

Accommodation
In Doorn, Maarn and the surrounding villages, you’ll find a range of hotels, bed & breakfasts, campsites and holiday parks. This makes it easy to combine a visit to the Kaapse Bossen with a longer stay on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.

Rules and access
The Kaapse Bossen are accessible all year round via the public footpaths. You are free to walk along the roads and paths in the area. Dogs are welcome, provided they are kept on a lead. Please help protect nature by leaving plants and animals undisturbed and by following the marked routes and information boards.