Time travel on the Heuvelrug

Some days, you just fancy something special. A day away from the hustle and bustle, getting lost among ancient trees, impressive castles and atmospheric estates. On the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, you can take a journey through time, nature and history within 24 hours. You will combine culture with cycling through the forest, have lunch in an orangery, stroll through gardens and end the day with good food in a place where life moves just a little slower. Care to join us?

The adventure begins as soon as you enter Zonheuvel Estate. Whether you park your car at the edge of the forest or arrive directly on your bike, you will immediately feel that everything here is all about being outdoors. In fact, cycling is the perfect way to explore the area; ordinary city bikes are waiting for you at reception, so all you have to do is hop on and be guided through the winding paths of the estate.

But first, park your bike and walk through the old gatehouse, then make your first stop at the Maarten Maartenshuis. Here, among the stately walls and ancient trees, time seems to stand still for a moment. You can walk around freely and, above all, enjoy the peace and quiet.

Tip: Take your time on the estate, especially early in the morning. Chances are you will only hear birdsong and maybe see a squirrel scurrying about.

When it's time for lunch, the route will lead you through the greenery to Museum Huis Doorn. This former exile site of Kaiser Wilhelm II is a special place where history becomes tangible. The rooms are furnished just as they were a hundred years ago and the Orangery, the old coach house, is now a bright lunch spot overlooking the park.

Tip: Lunch in the Orangery of Huis Doorn. Everything here is homemade and the views over the estate are beautiful, especially in spring and autumn.

After lunch, it will be great to get back on the bike and continue the tour towards Amerongen Castle. This castle is a place where four centuries of history come together; you can walk from room to room, listen to stories about noble families and discover new details each time. The castle shop is the place to go for a good cup of coffee or something sweet, while looking out over the peaceful garden where it smells and sounds different every season.

Tip: Don't skip the castle shop - not only will you find unusual souvenirs, but it is also a nice place to sit and enjoy a local pastry or a good espresso.

At the end of the day, it's nice to settle down at LIZ Restobar, located in the castle's former stables. Here it's all about fresh, local produce and a casual atmosphere, the ideal way to end your day.

Tip: Reserve a table at LIZ Restobar for dinner. The place is especially busy on weekends.

And when you return to Zonheuvel Estate afterwards and seek the silence of the forest, you will really notice how much you have seen, tasted and experienced in one day. If you would like to extend this feeling a little longer, you can enjoy an overnight stay at this beautiful estate. This way, you complete your 24 hours of nature and culture.

Feel like going on an adventure? Arrange your own 24 hours!