Discover the many faces of Overijssel from your holiday home in Holten

The town of Holten, located on the edge of the Sallandse Heuvelrug, is a perfect home base for all your explorations in a region characterised by rolling heathlands and forests. Several highlights on the ridge invite you to enjoy breathtaking views, while idyllic experiences on and along the Regge River are more than just a phrase in this area. Want to discover the land “across the IJssel,” where the Ice Age left behind striking contrasts? Read on and find out what beauty a holiday home in Holten has in store for you!

Visit Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park from your holiday home in Holten

The rolling character of the Sallandse Heuvelrug in Overijssel is almost atypical for Dutch standards. Forests and undulating heathlands alternate beautifully, but the spaciousness and tranquillity are what truly stand out here. The short climbs will lead you to the Holterberg — not the highest peak, but definitely the most well-known thanks to a mini-golf course and several cafés and restaurants. You'll also find a museum and visitor centre here, serving as the gateway to the National Park. Be sure to stop by and admire the taxidermy animals and 3D displays of their natural habitats. Interactive programmes are also available, such as guided tours and treasure hunts for children.

Take a road trip past historic estates

Overijssel is a province rich in estates and castles. Many manor houses are privately owned, but the surrounding estates are often open to the public. For example, the forest of Diepenheim Estate is accessible to visitors, and at Warmelo Estate, you can admire a French-style garden complete with a rose garden, pond, and azaleas. The real highlight, however, is a display of detailed sand sculptures spread across the grounds. Weldam Castle, which you can only view from the outside, is still a sight to behold — a proud building surrounded by a beautifully restored garden. Originally designed in Baroque style, the castle gardens underwent a 19th-century makeover resulting in a Neobaroque layout with geometric plots.

Go boating with the Enterse Zomp

With the Regge River near your holiday home in Holten, there’s no reason to hesitate if you fancy a boat ride. For an atmospheric experience, take a trip on the Enterse Zomp — a traditional flat-bottomed boat. For about an hour, you’ll follow the course of the Regge starting from De Waarf in Enter. Of course, you can also head out on your own in a canoe or electric whisper boat, available for rent at holiday park Mölke. Prefer to enjoy the camaraderie of a group without the skipper's stories? Rent a Regge Sloop and relax on the lounge cushions while cruising.

Cycle the Hellendoorn Water Route from your holiday home in Holten

Planning to explore the Holten area by bike, preferably along the water? Be sure to try the Hellendoorn Water Route. Along the way, you’ll pass Landgoed Schuilenburg. The castle there is largely gone, but a sunny terrace now offers a great spot for lunch or coffee and cake. Another charming place to stop is Café De Wilgenwaard, where you can sit by the riverbank or on a floating terrace on the Regge. Continue the route past Nijverdal to take in more of the Sallandse Heuvelrug, where you’ll also find a visitor centre for a break or short hike.

Take a heathland walk to the Palthe Tower

A fun sight to discover while hiking is the Palthe Tower, a white hunting tower and iconic landmark of the Sallandse Heuvelrug. Start at Holten's train station and follow the Sprengenberg walking route. You’ll be surprised to learn that raised bog grows in this area, as explained on an information panel. But first, you’ll walk through heathland and forest before the massive Palthe Tower appears on the Sprengenberg. Along the forest path, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the adjacent heath. Tip: walk this route in early summer when the long row of rhododendrons is in full bloom.

Fun activities with children

Kids will certainly have a great time during your holiday in Holten. One of the most popular attractions nearby is the Leemspoor steam train from Rijssen. A century ago, this narrow-gauge railway was used to transport coal. Today, it offers a leisurely and scenic ride through beautiful woodland. The journey starts in a deciduous forest with spaced-out trees that offer great visibility, then continues through coniferous woods with open stretches.

Looking for a theme park the whole family will enjoy? A holiday home in Holten is the perfect choice! You’ll be just a short drive from Adventure Park Hellendoorn. With four rollercoasters, a white-water ride, jungle expedition, and plenty of attractions for all ages, you’ll easily spend the whole day here. Always wanted to drive an old-timer? Hellendoorn gives you that unique opportunity!

Rent a holiday home in Holten

During your stay at the foot of the Sallandse Heuvelrug, you’ll have nature at your doorstep! Hop on your bike and take in the rolling heath and many estates, such as the regal Warmelo Estate. The Reggedal’s patchwork landscape offers a different vibe as you follow the river — or take a slower route and soak in the watery scenery aboard the Enterse Zomp. Want to get to know the richly varied heart of Overijssel? Rent a holiday home in Holten and experience a new adventure every day!