From family-friendly outings to romantic estates: discover it from your holiday home in Ermelo!

Are you looking for the perfect base for hikes and day trips? Then a holiday home in Ermelo is certainly a great choice! Ancient forests, heathlands, and fun activities like a climbing park or mini-golf course are just some of the nearby options. But a holiday in Ermelo has much more to offer! Visit the romantic estate of Oud Groevenbeek or laugh out loud at the Marius van Dokkum Museum!

Hike through the Speulderbos from your holiday home in Ermelo

Ermelo is surrounded by stunning natural beauty! Within just 10 minutes from the town center, you can reach the Ermelosche heath and the sheepfold. For a beautiful forest walk, park near the village of Drie. From there, you can hike through the Speulderbos. Many of the trees here have a twisting shape, making them look like they're “dancing.” Tip: take a break at Boshuis Drie, a cozy farmhouse where you can enjoy apple pie, lunch, or dinner!

Estate Het Rode Koper and Castle Staverden

Estate Het Rode Koper in the Leuvenumse forest is a great starting point for varied hikes. A stream runs through this forest, and if you visit at the right time, you might spot wild boar or red deer! Nearby, you'll find the picturesque town of Staverden. The white castle with crenellated façades and the estate grounds are truly a sight to behold. Be sure to stroll through the geometric gardens or enjoy coffee and cake at the brasserie!

Castle Staverden is a must for nature lovers in autumn! Sitting on a bench by the moat on a sunny day, you’ll admire orange leaves hanging over the water and, if there’s no wind, see the castle reflected in the still surface of the pond.

Climbing parks: Klimbos Ermelo and Klimbos Garderen

Ermelo and Garderen are close together, and although their climbing parks may sound alike, they are two distinct adventures! Klimbos Ermelo is suitable for all ages, offering nine courses including the most challenging obstacles in the Netherlands. It also features a 70-meter zipline. Klimbos Garderen claims the title of the highest climbing park in the country! It has creative challenges like biking across a wire at 12 meters high and swinging between trees like a monkey. The zipline here is suitable for children aged 13 and up.

Visit the town of Harderwijk from your holiday home in Ermelo

As Ermelo lies right next to Harderwijk, it's easy to visit by bike. This town has a charming historic and maritime vibe. Unlike Ermelo, Harderwijk’s center lies directly along Lake Veluwe, where many terraces compete for visitors’ attention. Want to go shopping? Then Ermelo has you covered, with one of the longest shopping streets in the Veluwe region!

Experience humorous art at the Marius van Dokkum Museum

Paintings that humorously reflect everyday life — that’s what characterizes the works of Marius van Dokkum. The mutual affection between the painter and the town of Harderwijk led to a permanent exhibition in the heart of the town. Since its opening, the exhibition has become extremely popular. Today, the museum is housed in a former university building. Nearly every painting captures a funny and relatable situation, often with a touch of imagination. Don’t leave without visiting the museum shop! You’ll find all sorts of products inspired by the paintings, such as greeting cards, puzzles, and calendars.

Fun activities with kids near Ermelo

A great activity near your holiday home in Ermelo is the indoor play paradise Monkey Town! Its vast indoor area with numerous playgrounds is sure to excite any child. Looking for similar outdoor fun? Head to Boerderij Pret! Children of all ages will enjoy bouncy castles, inflatable slides, laser tag, and a corn maze. Want to end your active day on a satisfying note? Sit down at the on-site pancake restaurant!

If you’re searching for a family-friendly activity where everyone can show off their skills, visit the Terra Nova mini-golf park in Putten! On a dry day, try to score on all 18 holes outdoors — and if it rains, there’s an indoor course available as well.

Sand sculptures in Garderen

A fun family outing from your holiday home in Ermelo is the sand sculpture exhibition in Garderen. Each year, stunning sculptures are created based on a central theme. In 2025, the sculptures celebrate Amsterdam and its 750th anniversary. Marvel at the fine craftsmanship with which the sand masters bring these creations to life! The exhibition is mostly covered, but there are also outdoor sculptures you can view along a walking route or from the terrace while enjoying coffee and cake.

Estate Oud Groevenbeek

Hidden in a leafy forest lies the noble estate of Oud Groevenbeek. A walk through the estate will lead you past green fields and the striking white mansion with its elegant tower. The quiet lawns, narrow driveway, tall trees and blooming flowers all reflect its role as a popular wedding venue. But even casual walkers are welcome — relax in the tea house beside the Jugendstil villa and soak up the lush, romantic surroundings. In autumn or winter, the round garden café is especially cozy with its central fireplace.

Rent a holiday home in Ermelo

In the Ermelo area, you’ll quickly discover that the western edge of the Veluwe is full of promise. From long hikes on the Ermelosche heath to tranquil morning or evening strolls right from your holiday home, nature is always nearby. Traveling with kids? Then your holiday can easily include climbing parks, mini-golf, and much more. And for a dose of culture and fun, the Marius van Dokkum Museum and the Garderen sand sculptures are great for all ages!