To the top of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug

This route is part of the group 'The Most Beautiful Routes of the Heuvelrug Walking Tour'.

For more information: www.heuvelrugwandeltocht.nl

The route departs from the Kerkplein in Leersum, behind the church, near the bandstand. Yes, Leersum still has one. On the outskirts of the village we first pass two watchtowers. When those towers were built, the surrounding area consisted only of heathland. That is no longer the case, the vegetation has caused the views to disappear. But the Owl Tower and the Tomb of Nellesteyn are definitely worth a moment to reflect on. Half an hour later you reach the Veldschuur of Staatsbosbeheer, the gateway to the Leersumse Plassen. Our route goes around the lakes in a big arc. In any case, you will never enter the breeding area that is closed to hikers from mid-March to the end of July. But don't worry, the Leersumse Plassen can be seen at various locations, for example from the bird observation hut. The Leersumse Veld has its own, somewhat Veluwe-like character, with the accompanying sand drifts.

In all that wasteland lies a very pleasant oasis for the walker: the Molecaten Park Landgoed Ginkelduin. Our route goes over the park and the people of the café-restaurant are happy to see you. In the 1950s, the park was home to many Hungarian refugees. A beautiful statue refers to this history, you pass it.

Then you have to climb, the Amerongse Berg is waiting for the hiker and eventually you will also reach the top. At 69 meters, this is the highest point of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug. The route continues, through the historic core of the village of Amerongen and past Amerongen Castle. Just before you reach Leersum again, there is another country estate to see: Landgoed Zuylestein with accompanying forest. If you have arrived back at the Kerkplein in Leersum after 19 kilometers, you have been able to enjoy the many faces of the Utrechtse Heuvelrug.