Top things to do in Bennekom (The Netherlands)

Bennekom: A Hidden Gem in the Netherlands

Welcome to Bennekom, a charming town located in the province of Gelderland in the Netherlands. Known for its beautiful natural reserves, historical landmarks, and family-friendly attractions, Bennekom is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an authentic Dutch experience away from the hustle and bustle of big cities.

Things to See and Do

Kijk en Luistermuseum

Start your visit by immersing yourself in the cultural heritage of Bennekom at Kijk en Luistermuseum. This unique museum showcases an extensive collection of antique radios, televisions, gramophones, and other electronics that help tell the story of the evolution of technology over the last century. Visitors can listen to music, watch old TV shows and movies, and learn about the history of communication in the Netherlands. Don't forget to check out their special exhibitions and events throughout the year.

Uitkijktoren

If you're looking for panoramic views of the Dutch countryside, climb the Uitkijktoren tower located in Binnenveldse Hooilanden. From the top of this observation tower, you can see the vast meadows, forests, and waterways that make up the beautiful landscape of the Netherlands.

Estate Kernhem

Step back in time to the 18th century by visiting Estate Kernhem. This historical landmark features a beautiful castle, surrounded by a lush park with well-manicured gardens, ponds, and fountains. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its rich history and architectural style.

Hoekelumse Bos

For nature lovers, Hoekelumse Bos is a must-see attraction in Bennekom. This national forest boasts over 300 hectares of woodlands, heaths, and ponds, making it the perfect spot for hiking, cycling, or just enjoying a peaceful picnic. Keep an eye out for the wildlife, including deer, foxes, and various birds.

Landgoed De Lindeboom

Another idyllic estate in Bennekom is Landgoed De Lindeboom. This park features a grand mansion and an extensive garden with walking paths, a pond, and a playground for children. Visitors can also participate in various outdoor activities such as archery, horse riding, or carriage rides.

Airborne Monument Ginkelse Heide

History buffs should not miss the Airborne Monument Ginkelse Heide, a WWII site that commemorates the bravery of the British paratroopers who landed here during the Battle of Arnhem in 1944. Today, this site hosts an annual parachuting event and a memorial service to honor the soldiers who fought and died in the war.

Botanical Gardens Wageningen

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a stroll through the serene Botanical Gardens Wageningen. This arboretum boasts an extensive collection of plants and trees from all over the world, with a focus on tropical and subtropical species. Visitors can admire the colorful flowers, observe the wildlife, and learn about the importance of conservation.

Ouwehands Zoo

Animal lovers won't want to miss the Ouwehands Zoo, home to over 1500 animals from all corners of the globe. Highlights include the Arctic Circle exhibit featuring polar bears, sea lions, and penguins, the Primate Forest featuring gorillas and orangutans, and the Bear Forest, home to brown bears and wolves. The zoo also offers various interactive experiences such as feeding tours, behind-the-scenes tours, and overnight stays in a bear-themed chalet.

Other Attractions

In addition to the above-mentioned attractions, Bennekom has plenty of other hidden gems worth exploring. Here are some more places to add to your itinerary:

  • Belmonte Arboretum: A botanic garden with Rhine River panoramas, plus seasonal rhododendrons, rose beds & fruit trees.
  • Magnoliaboom: A park located in Torckpark with a beautiful magnolia tree that blooms in the spring.
  • Mombarg Tuinarchitectuur: A charming garden design studio with a lovely outdoor showroom.
  • Belgenmonument: A memorial dedicated to the Belgian soldiers who fought in WWII.
  • Natuurcentrum Veluwe: A nature center with interactive exhibits, hiking trails, and bird watching opportunities.
  • The Arboretum Dreijen: A botanical garden with a diverse collection of trees and plants.
  • de Liggende Blaauboer: A curious statue of a lying blue ox located in Schoorsteenweg.
  • Park Hartenstein: A park featuring a historic mansion with a museum of WWII's Battle of Arnhem.
  • De Koepel: A beautiful round pavilion with a stunning view of the surroundings.
  • Uil van Ron: A sculpture of an owl located in the woods between Ede and Bennekom.
  • Grebbelinie Bezoekerscentrum: An exhibition center dedicated to the Grebbelinie, a series of fortifications built during WWII to protect the Netherlands from German invasion.
  • Het Depot: A botanical garden with a collection of trees and shrubs from around the world.
  • De Hemelsche Berg: A beautiful villa with a picturesque garden and a view of the Rhine Valley.
  • Blauwe kamer: A nature reserve with hiking trails and bird watching opportunities.
  • Boswallen Oranje Nassau Oord: A forest with meandering paths that lead to the historic Oranje Nassau Oord estate.
  • De Beeksehoeve: A petting zoo with various animals such as goats, sheep, rabbits, and chickens.
  • Het Berenbos: A bear sanctuary located within the Ouwehands Zoo.
  • Kwintelooyen: A former sand quarry turned nature reserve with hiking trails and playgrounds.
  • Recreation The Dikkenberg: A family-friendly campground with many amenities and activities.
  • Vleermuizenbunker: A former WWII-era bunker that now serves as a bat sanctuary.
  • Airbornemuseum Hartenstein: A museum that tells the story of WWII's Battle of Arnhem and the role of the British airborne forces in it.
  • Romeinse Wachttoren De Spees: The ruins of a Roman watchtower located on the banks of the Rhine River.
  • Schaapskooi zuid Ginkel: A sheepfold located on the Ginkel Heath where visitors can see the sheep grazing and learn about traditional Dutch sheep farming.
  • Bonoboverblijf: A new habitat for bonobo monkeys located within the Ouwehands Zoo.
  • Koningstafel op de Grebbeberg: A historical monument and a scenic overlook located on the Grebbeberg hill.
  • Kasteel Hoekelum: A beautiful castle that hosts various cultural events throughout the year.

Conclusion

Bennekom may not be the most well-known tourist destination in the Netherlands, but it certainly has a lot to offer. From historical landmarks to natural reserves, from family-friendly attractions to romantic gardens, Bennekom has something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to explore this hidden gem and discover all the wonderful things it has to offer. Safe travels!

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