If you're looking to get out of the city for an afternoon in the forest, the parks of Amelisweerd and Rhijnauwen provide the perfect escape. These old estates used to belong to the old nobility of Utrecht, and even Louis Bonaparte (little brother of the other Napoleon), former king of the Netherlands, lived there briefly.
Luckily, it now belongs to the municipality of Utrecht and the neighboring village, Bunnik. However, you can still feel the regal atmosphere when you walk in the lush parks and pass the luxurious villas and cute farmsteads.
In summer, it is the perfect chill-out spot for a picnic. Bring some snacks and go for a swim in the Kromme Rijn. In winter, opt for a stroll along the river, following the old Jaagpad (a towpath originally used for towing boats by horses or people).
Finish your walk with a warm drink in the StayOkay café, a cozy, brown pub in an old estate and carriage houses. Alternatively, you can go and eat traditional Dutch pancakes (pannenkoeken) at Theehuis Rhijnauwen. They have the traditional varieties with syrup, bacon or apples, but also some strange new varieties like the panza’s (pizza pancakes) or the Boonaparte (with beans...). Try at your own risk.
You can reach Amelisweerd easily by getting an (OV) bike (recommended) or taking bus 41 to bus stop Oud-Amelisweerd. Once you’re there, walk to the north, crossing the Kromme Rijn and restaurant de Veldkeuken to reach the park.
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38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the crowd & travel slow 🐌
✓ 38 Insider Tips from our local Spotters