The 15 Best Places to Walk Your Dog in the Netherlands

Are you at a loss because you have no idea where to take your dog for a great walk? Are you tired of the same old loops around the neighborhood, with your dog getting bored?

Imagine this: your dog excitedly running through the woods, playing in the sand dunes, and sniffing along rivers while you enjoy the stunning scenery. No more endless laps around your house, but real adventure! But beware, not all places are created equal: some have rules you better not overlook—and a dog rolling in the mud might be the least of your worries.

1. Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn

When you think of Paleis Het Loo in Apeldoorn, you probably imagine majestic baroque gardens and royal grandeur. Unfortunately, the gardens at Paleis Het Loo are not accessible to dogs.

But don't worry; there are plenty of dog-friendly walking routes around the palace. Think of the surrounding forests and parks where your dog can burn off energy without getting into trouble. Remember to keep your furry friend on a leash and bring water and poop bags, as the facilities within the palace gardens are limited.

Tip: Check the Paleis Het Loo website or give them a call for the latest updates on where you can and can't go with your dog. That way, you ensure your visit is a success for both you and your loyal companion! 🏰🐕

 

2. Posbank on the Southern Veluwe near Rhenen

Posbank is a beautiful area for walking! Dogs are allowed here. Keep in mind that your dog must remain on a leash to prevent disturbance to nature and other walkers.

This stunning natural area, with its expansive heathlands and breathtaking views, offers the perfect backdrop for an energetic walk with your four-legged friend. Especially on warm days, it's important to bring enough water for your dog. In the fall, the paths can get muddy, so sturdy shoes and a clean spot for your dog are a must.

 

3. Rhijnauwen near Utrecht

Imagine a peaceful walk along winding rivers and through green forests, with your dog happily trotting beside you. Sounds good, right?

Rhijnauwen, near Utrecht, offers a beautiful wooded environment accessible to dogs. On the walking paths in Rhijnauwen, dogs are generally allowed, but don’t forget to keep your dog on a leash, especially near water features like rivers and marshes.

There are few facilities for dogs, so bring your own water and poop bags. Want to ensure your visit goes smoothly? Check with local nature managers for the most up-to-date rules and access conditions. That way, you can enjoy a relaxed walk and fully appreciate this beautiful piece of nature.

 

4. Soesterduinen near Soest

Ready for an adventure full of sand dunes and forests? Soesterduinen near Soest offers a unique walking experience for you and your dog. The Soesterduinen, known for its impressive sand dunes and wooded surroundings, are perfect for an adventurous walk with your dog.

The walking paths at Soesterduinen are usually accessible for dogs, but keep in mind that most of these routes are rugged and challenging. Your dog should stay on a leash to protect the environment and to prevent him from getting caught in the muddy sand dunes. Bring plenty of water and snacks for your dog, as conditions can vary from dry and dusty to wet and slippery, especially after a rain shower.

 

5. Speulderbos in Ermelo

In the Speulderbos in Ermelo, you'll find a beautiful network of paths accessible to dogs, provided they remain on a leash. The path winds through the forest, past beautiful flora, and quiet open spaces. It’s an ideal place for a relaxing walk, where your dog can let off steam without disturbing the ecosystem.

Tip: Don't forget to bring your own water and poop bags, as there are no special facilities for dogs in this forest. The tranquil and natural surroundings make Speulderbos an excellent choice for a fun outing with your dog. So, lace up your walking shoes, bring your furry friend, and explore this beautiful forest together.

 

6. Landgoed Twickel in Twente

The walking routes on the Twickel estate are generally dog-friendly, provided your four-legged friend remains on a leash. Twickel is the hidden gem of Twente!

This estate, famous for its extensive forests and historical charm, offers a beautiful area to walk through a picturesque landscape with your dog. The walking routes on the Twickel estate are generally dog-friendly, provided your four-legged friend remains on a leash.

As you walk through the forests and across the fields, you can enjoy the scenic views and tranquility this terrain offers. However, keep in mind that there are no special facilities for dogs like water points or waste bins, so make sure you have everything you need.

 

7. Bokkedoorns in Zeeland

Welcome to Bokkedoorns, where nature is at its best, and you and your furry friend can have a wonderful time! The walking paths in this area are generally accessible for dogs, but a leashed dog is necessary to protect nature and other visitors.

Bokkedoorns offers a picturesque landscape that’s perfect for a peaceful walk with your dog. Don’t forget that there are limited facilities for dogs, such as water points, so make sure you bring everything you need. In the summer, it can get quite warm in Bokkedoorns, so a cool spot for your dog and plenty of water are not a luxury.

This area offers an ideal setting for a relaxing walk through nature, with the opportunity to breathe in the fresh sea air and enjoy the stunning views. Lace up your walking shoes, load up your dog with energy, and explore the natural beauty of Bokkedoorns!

 

8. Leusderheide on the Veluwe

Have you ever felt like you and your dog are looking for a magical place where nature welcomes you with open arms? Leusderheide is just that place!

Leusderheide is known for its beautiful heathlands that take on a purple glow in the summer - really stunning to see. The walking paths in this area are usually accessible for dogs, but it’s important to keep your dog on a leash, especially near wildlife.

The nature here can be enchanting, but a well-planned walk is half the battle! Although there are no special facilities for dogs, such as water points, the beauty of the surroundings makes up for a lot. In the warm months, the heath can be dry and hot, so make sure you bring plenty of water for your dog and poop bags to keep the area clean.

9. The Veluwe in Gelderland

When you think of an adventure in the Netherlands, the Veluwe is probably the first thing that comes to mind. This vast nature reserve, located in Gelderland, is a true paradise for dog lovers. Whether you’re looking for dense forests, expansive heathlands, or beautiful sand drifts, the Veluwe has it all!

The Veluwe offers a wide variety of walking routes that are perfect for an adventure with your dog. Most paths are accessible for dogs, as long as they remain on a leash. This is not only to protect the wildlife but also to ensure that your four-legged friend stays safe.

There are few special facilities for dogs in the Veluwe, so bring your own water and poop bags. Good walking shoes are a must, as the terrain can vary from sandy paths to muddy sections, depending on the season.

 

10. De Biesbosch in Noord-Brabant

Ready for a wet adventure with your dog? Then the Biesbosch is the place for you! This unique nature reserve, located in Noord-Brabant, is known for its swamps, rivers, and forests. It is one of the few freshwater tidal areas in Europe, meaning the landscape is constantly changing—just like your dog when he discovers all those new scents and spots!

The Biesbosch is perfect for adventurous walks where your dog can fully enjoy the water. Many of the walking paths are accessible for dogs, but keep a close eye on your furry friend, especially near the many water features. This area can be quite treacherous, with unexpected currents and deep pools, so it’s important to keep an eye on your pet.

As in other nature reserves, there are no special water points for dogs in the Biesbosch, so don’t forget to bring your own water. The paths can sometimes be muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes and a towel to dry off your dog are no luxury. Keep in mind that the Biesbosch is a living area, meaning that conditions can change quickly. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check local rules and weather conditions beforehand.

11. Alde Feanen in Friesland

Welcome to the heart of Friesland, where the Alde Feanen National Park is waiting to be discovered. Alde Feanen National Park is very suitable for walking with your dog. However, your dog must be kept on a leash.

This area is a hidden gem, with a landscape dominated by expansive lakes, reed fields, and beautiful forests. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale with your dog—only without the dangerous dragons, luckily. Most walking paths are dog-friendly, but just like in the other parks, you must keep your dog on a leash. This is especially important near the many water features, where curious noses might get a wet surprise.

There are no special water points for dogs in the park, so bring plenty of water. The paths can sometimes be narrow and muddy, especially after rain, so sturdy shoes and a few extra towels to clean your dog after the walk are recommended.

 

12. The 4 Best National Parks in the Netherlands for Walking with Your Dog

The Netherlands is blessed with some breathtaking national parks that invite not only you but also your dog to enjoy the great outdoors. We’ve selected the four best national parks in the Netherlands where you and your four-legged friend can embark on an adventure together. But beware—these parks can be quite different, so be prepared!

1. De Hoge Veluwe: A gem on the Veluwe, offering a wide range of landscapes, from dense forests to expansive heathlands. Your dog will have a blast here. Keep in mind that dogs are welcome but must remain on a leash at all times. The walking paths vary from easy to challenging, so good preparation is essential.

2. Nationaal Park Utrechtse Heuvelrug: If you’re looking for an adventure in the woods with your dog, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug is the place to be. The walking paths in this national park are accessible for dogs, but again, keeping your dog on a leash is crucial to protect the environment and to ensure the safety of other walkers.

3. De Biesbosch: A wet adventure awaits you in this national park, where your dog will have to navigate through wetlands and swamps. The walking paths are generally accessible for dogs, but the sometimes muddy and wet terrain can be challenging. Make sure you’re prepared with towels and extra water for your dog.

4. Sallandse Heuvelrug: This park in the east of the Netherlands is ideal for long, relaxed walks through rolling hills and forests. The walking paths are accessible for dogs, but you must keep your dog on a leash. It’s a beautiful area where you can fully enjoy the tranquility and the view. Don’t forget to bring water and poop bags!

With a variety of stunning landscapes, challenging terrain, and serene environments, each of these places offers a memorable experience for both you and your four-legged friend. Whether you're a fan of forests, dunes, heathlands, or wetlands, there's a perfect place for you and your dog to explore together in the Netherlands!