Top things to do in De Bilt (The Netherlands)

De Bilt: A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands

Are you looking for a destination in the Netherlands that offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions? Look no further than De Bilt, a charming town located just 5 kilometers to the east of Utrecht. With a population of around 43,000, De Bilt is a great alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby cities, offering a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. In this guide, we will showcase some of the town's best tourist attractions.

Natural Beauty

De Bilt is surrounded by beautiful nature reserves that are perfect for walking, cycling, and nature spotting. Here are some of our favorites:

Van Boetzelaer Park

Located in the heart of De Bilt, Van Boetzelaer Park is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. The park features manicured lawns, tree-lined paths, and a small pond. There is also a playground for children, making it a great option for families. URL: www.vriendenboetzelaerpark.nl/

Biltse Dunes

Just a short drive from De Bilt, the Biltse Dunes are a natural area that offers plenty of opportunities for hiking and birdwatching. The dunes are home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, foxes, and rabbits. URL: utrechtslandschap.nl/biltse...

Estate Oostbroek

Located on the outskirts of De Bilt, Estate Oostbroek is a protected area that is home to a variety of habitats, including woods, flowery grasslands, and swamps. The estate is also home to a monastery garden. URL: www.utrechtslandschap.nl/p3...

Amelisweerd

If you're looking for a peaceful escape from the city, Amelisweerd is the perfect destination. This serene forested park has plenty of trails for walking or cycling, and you can even rent a canoe to explore the nearby river. URL: www.vriendenvanamelisweerd.nl/

Cultural Attractions

De Bilt may be a small town, but it is rich in history and culture. Here are some of our top picks for cultural attractions:

Rietveld Schröder House

Designed by architect Gerrit Rietveld in 1924, the Rietveld Schröder House is a UNESCO-listed example of the De Stijl style of art and architecture. The house is famous for its use of movable walls and furniture, making it a prime example of modernist design. URL: www.rietveldschroderhuis.nl/nl

Spoorwegmuseum

Located in a restored 19th-century train station, the Spoorwegmuseum is a must-visit for train enthusiasts. The museum showcases the history of rail travel in the Netherlands, featuring interactive exhibits and a collection of vintage trains. URL: www.spoorwegmuseum.nl/

Dom Tower

Standing at 95 meters tall, the Dom Tower is a symbol of Utrecht and is visible from miles away. Visitors can climb the tower's 465 steps to enjoy panoramic views of De Bilt and the surrounding area. URL: www.domtoren.nl/

Utrecht Botanic Gardens

Established in 1639, the Utrecht Botanic Gardens are home to a variety of plants from around the world. The gardens feature several greenhouses, including a Tropical Greenhouse that is home to plants from rainforests and deserts. URL: www.uu.nl/botanischetuinen

Family-Friendly Fun

De Bilt has plenty of activities that are perfect for families. Here are some of our favorites:

Bezoekerscentrum Koetshuis Beerschoten

Located on the Beerschoten Estate, the Bezoekerscentrum Koetshuis Beerschoten is a great place for kids to learn about nature and the environment. The center features interactive exhibits, a small petting zoo, and plenty of walking trails. URL: www.utrechtslandschap.nl/be...

Bezoekerscentrum De Boswerf

Another great option for families is the Bezoekerscentrum De Boswerf. This nature center features a variety of exhibits and activities that teach kids about the natural world. There is also an outdoor playground that is perfect for burning off some energy. URL: www.odru.nl/nme-aanbod-natu...

Park Transwijk

Located just a short drive from De Bilt, Park Transwijk is a great destination for families. The park features a small zoo, a skate park, and plenty of walking paths. There is also a campground, making it a great option for families who want to spend the night. URL: www.utrecht.nl/wonen-en-lev...

Nature Reserves

De Bilt is surrounded by several nature reserves that are perfect for exploring. Here are some of our favorites:

Houdringe

Houdringe is a beautiful nature reserve that features woods, meadows, and wetlands. Visitors can explore the reserve on foot or by bike, and there are several trails to choose from. URL: utrechtslandschap.nl/beersc...

Landgoed Sandwijck

Located just outside of De Bilt, Landgoed Sandwijck is a nature preserve that is home to a variety of plant and animal species. The preserve features several walking trails, making it a great destination for nature lovers. URL: utrechtslandschap.nl/sandwijck

Vollenhoven

Vollenhoven is a beautiful estate that is home to several walking trails and a variety of wildlife. Visitors can explore the estate's gardens, meadows, and woods, making it a great destination for nature lovers. URL: www.landgoedvollenhoven.nl/

Getting Around

De Bilt is a small town that is easy to navigate on foot or by bike. There are also several bus routes that connect De Bilt to nearby cities. If you're planning on exploring the surrounding nature reserves, it's best to have a car.

Conclusion

De Bilt may be a small town, but it has plenty to offer visitors. Whether you're looking for natural beauty, cultural attractions, or family-friendly fun, De Bilt has something for everyone. So why not plan a visit to this hidden gem in the Netherlands?