Things To Do
in Ermelo
Ermelo is a friendly town in Gelderland on the edge of the Veluwe, framed by heathlands and quiet waterways. It combines a walkable town center with easy access to forested trails and lakes, making it a popular base for exploring the region. In the town you’ll find historical architecture, market days, and a relaxed Dutch vibe balanced by outdoor adventures.
It’s ideally situated for cycling, nature photography, and day trips to nearby Harderwijk and Apeldoorn.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Ermelo, settle into your accommodation and take a moment to refresh. Start your day with a leisurely stroll in the nearby Veluwe National Park, where the serene landscapes provide a perfect introduction to the area’s natural beauty. Stop by a local café for a traditional Dutch breakfast to fuel your adventure.
Spend your afternoon visiting the iconic Corrie ten Boom House, which offers a deep dive into the history of the region during World War II. Afterwards, explore the charming town center, where boutique shops and picturesque streets invite you to wander. Treat yourself to lunch at a quaint eatery that serves local delicacies.
As evening falls, find a cozy restaurant for dinner and enjoy regional specialties accompanied by a glass of Dutch beer or jenever. Afterward, take an evening walk along the scenic waterfront of the Veluwemeer, where the sunset casts a golden hue over the water. This tranquil atmosphere is perfect for reflecting on your first day in Ermelo.
Rise early to immerse yourself in nature with a guided hike through the expansive Veluwe landscapes, where you can spot wildlife and relish the stunning views. Visit the nearby heathlands, which are particularly vibrant in the summer months, providing an unforgettable experience. Capture the beauty of blooming heather and the peaceful surroundings.
Head back to Ermelo for lunch before visiting the local museum, which showcases the history and culture of the region. Participate in a traditional Dutch craft workshop, where you can learn skills like pottery or painting. This hands-on experience will allow you to connect with local artisans and take home a piece of your trip.
Dinner tonight is at a family-run restaurant known for its warm hospitality and homemade dishes. After your meal, enjoy an evening of live music at a local venue, where you can mingle with residents and experience the vibrant Dutch music scene. End the night by enjoying a nightcap in a relaxed pub atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $3-4 |
| 🚆Public transport ticket (one-way) | $2-3 |
| 🍺Pint of local beer | $5-7 |
| 🏨1 night in mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Access to the Veluwe and nature on your doorstep
- Peaceful, walkable town with a friendly vibe
- Good value for money compared to bigger Dutch cities
- Cycling-friendly with well-maintained paths
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Smaller selection of top-tier restaurants
- Potentially seasonal tourism with varying crowd levels
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Dank u wel" - Thank you
- "Alstublieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Waar is het dichtstbijzijnde treinstation?" - Where is the nearest train station?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Ermelo
Visit one of these nice places.
The town’s historic church with a classic brick façade, ideal for architectural shots and golden-hour photography.
Colorful facades and lively street scenes, especially vibrant during market days.
Open heath and pine vistas offering wide landscape photography opportunities, especially at dawn or dusk.
Dense forest lines and morning mist along scenic trails provide moody woodland images.
Quiet water reflections with willows and boats for serene, reflective photographs.
Food in Ermelo
Ermelo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty Dutch classic combining mashed potatoes with greens and smoked sausage, especially comforting in cooler days.
Must-Try!
Thick pea soup typical of Dutch winters, usually served with rye bread and bacon or sausage.
Smoked Gelderland sausage, a staple at markets and home tables around the region.
Classic Dutch apple tart with cinnamon and a crumbly crust, widely available in cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Market days with fresh vegetables, dairy, bread, and seasonal regional specialties from local producers.
Stalls offering local cheeses, honey, preserves, and Gelderland delicacies at the market square.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be on time for appointments and social visits; punctuality is valued in Dutch culture.
A handshake is typical in formal settings; casual greetings are friendly and straightforward.
Yield to pedestrians; stay in bike lanes; use a bell when passing.
Safety
Tipping in Ermelo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common.
Credit/debit cards widely accepted; contactless payments and iDEAL online payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Meadows bloom with wildflowers; mild temperatures and scenic cycling routes are common.
Warm days with long daylight hours; outdoor cafés and lakeside activities are popular; expect occasional showers.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures; ideal for forest hikes and photography.
Cool to cold days with possible frost or light snow; cozy indoor dining and festive markets are common.
Ermelo at Night
Hiking in Ermelo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails through heathland and pine forests near Ermelo.
Famous beech forest with distinctive shapes; excellent in autumn light.
Expansive sand dunes with long-distance vistas and dramatic landscapes.
Loop routes through mixed forests, heathlands, and wildlife-rich areas.
Airports
How to reach Ermelo by plane.
Major international hub about 60-90 minutes away by train or car from Ermelo.
Smaller regional airport with some domestic and seasonal services; convenient for quick getaways.
Large airport in the south with many budget and international routes; roughly 1.5-2 hours by road/train.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families live here, attracted by schools, parks, and safe neighborhoods.
A steady presence in quieter residential areas seeking a relaxed pace of life.
Significant agricultural activity in the surrounding countryside.
Some students commute to nearby towns for education; local programs support youth activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Deeply ingrained in the region due to flat terrain and bike-friendly infrastructure.
Active amateur and youth leagues with local clubs around Ermelo.
Popular in the Veluwe’s open spaces and nearby farms.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ermelo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; look for vegetable dishes, dairy-based plates, or plant-based substitutes and ask for adaptations.