Endless ancient forests, sprawling views over heather, wild boar, owls and eagles, deer and even wolves… Even though this may not sound typically Dutch, this is what the Veluwe region in the heart of the Netherlands has to offer. With over 90.000 hectares of forest, heather and shifting sands, the Veluwe region is actually the largest connected nature area of Europe. It’s therefore not surprising that for decades this has been the most popular holiday area for Dutch hikers and cyclists. But where to stay if you’re looking for a boutique experience, and want to stay away from busy holiday parks?
A country estate on the edge of the forest offering five unique cottages
Landgoed Dennenholt (Dennenholt Estate) is located 1 km outside the small village of Vierhouten, at only one hour from Amsterdam, or 100 km from The Hague and Eindhoven. It sits just on the edge of the most desolate, untouched, quiet (and at night darkest) heart of the Veluwe region.
This family-owned estate offers five boutique holiday cottages. Each unique in size and style, they all offer a level of modern comfort and luxury to make perfect spots for shorter or longer stays in any of the four seasons, for families, groups or romantic couples. The owners pride themselves on their personal approach, diversity and inclusion, welcoming guests of all walks of life, while ensuring privacy during their stay.
The owners have gone to great lengths during the recent renovation to keep the traditional darkened pinewood-paneled exteriors, perfectly matching their forest surroundings. Inside, the cottages have been renovated to a high standard, setting them far apart from holiday parks: a fireplace, fully equipped kitchens with proper ovens, quality beds and linen, luxury bathrooms and Molton Brown amenities; most even have a large bath. Truly a boutique experience.
Ranging from a romantic hidden cabin, a tiny house, an elevated wooden design studio with panoramic views into the forest, to a family home with multiple bedrooms and en-suite bathrooms, Dennenholt estate caters to every guest’s needs. It’s not surprising that many guests keep coming back as their family expands.
Hikes and bikes
Right on the doorstep, a maze of trails starts. The area is heaven for those who seek to explore the forest and heather on foot, with a large variety of short or long walks – either signposted, guided by a local nature guide or by yourself using a hiking map and personal suggestions the proprietors provide to every guest.
Prefer to get on your bike and cover some more ground? Here, in these forests that are often over 200 years old, you can roam free on old country lanes and paths, or venture onto the royal hunting grounds of the King’s estate between Vierhouten and Apeldoorn.
Home cooking and fine dining
While all of Dennenholt’s holiday homes’ kitchens provide a full-fledged kitchen for home chefs amongst us, there are plenty of culinary delights nearby too, ranging from variety of restaurants in the nearby village to Bib Gourmand and Michelin-starred restaurants in the wider area. Are you looking for a local gem? The owners are in the know!