Montferland

A scenic woodland region in eastern Gelderland offering rolling hills, forests, and charming countryside perfect for hiking and cycling. The area provides a quieter alternative to the busier Veluwe with beautiful natural scenery.

Things to do

• Cycling the Montferland Routes — Follow well-marked cycling paths through rolling countryside and forest, with routes ranging from 20 to 60 kilometers connecting small villages and scenic viewpoints.
• Hiking in the Bergherbos Forest — Explore dense woodland trails with elevation changes offering views across the rural landscape, popular for its natural quiet and diverse flora.
• Visit Arnhem Open-Air Museum — Experience traditional Dutch rural life with historic farmhouses and buildings relocated to this museum at the edge of Montferland.
• Explore Groenlo Town Center — Wander the charming medieval town with its historic marketplace, Grote Kerk church, and local shops representing regional character.
• Birdwatching at Local Nature Reserves — Visit protected woodland and wetland areas that attract diverse bird species, especially during spring and autumn migrations.
• Visit a Local Pancake Farm — Stop at a family-run farm restaurant to enjoy traditional Dutch pancakes made with local ingredients in a countryside setting.

Food to try

• Boerenkoolstamppot — A hearty local dish of mashed potatoes with kale, traditionally served with smoked sausage and onion gravy, representing comfort food of eastern Gelderland.
• Fresh Asparagus (Witte Asperges) — During spring season, white asparagus grown in local fields is served simply steamed with hollandaise sauce and new potatoes at regional restaurants.
• Pannenkoeken with Local Jams — Thin Dutch pancakes filled with homemade berry jams or fresh whipped cream from local dairies, commonly served at countryside farm restaurants.
• Smoked Eel (Gerookt Paling) — Traditionally smoked eel sourced from regional rivers and lakes, served as a delicacy at local restaurants and markets.
• Gelderland Cheese — Local farmstead cheeses with varying ages and styles, available at regional markets and farm shops throughout Montferland.

Local customs & good to know

• Rural Cycling Culture — Cycling is the primary mode of local transport and leisure; visitors should respect farm roads and be prepared for muddy paths during wet seasons.
• Seasonal Farm Visits — Many local farms welcome visitors during specific seasons for picking fruit or purchasing fresh produce directly; check ahead as these are family operations with limited hours.
• Quiet Hours and Village Rhythms — This is a peaceful rural area where activities wind down in late afternoon; shops close early and villages are quiet after 18:00, reflecting traditional Dutch countryside pace.
• Local Festival Calendar — Groenlo and surrounding villages host seasonal markets and festivals, particularly autumn harvest celebrations and spring flower events that showcase regional traditions.