Things To Do
in Hellendoorn

Hellendoorn is a charming village located in the eastern part of the Netherlands, known for its picturesque countryside and friendly community. Visitors can explore the historic streets lined with traditional Dutch architecture or enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling in the nearby Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park. The village is also home to the popular amusement park, Avonturenpark Hellendoorn, offering thrilling rides and attractions for families and thrill-seekers alike.

With its tranquil atmosphere and scenic surroundings, Hellendoorn is a delightful destination for those looking to experience the beauty of rural Netherlands.

  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Dank je wel" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Tot ziens" - See you later

Prices

  • 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $60 - $150
  • 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
  • Coffee: $2 - $4
  • 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $3 - $5
  • 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
  • 🏋️‍♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Explore Nature in Hellendoorn
morning
:

Start your day with a refreshing hike in the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park. The beautiful trails and scenic views will energize you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon visiting the quaint local shops in the village of Hellendoorn. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café and soak in the charming atmosphere.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with dinner at a traditional Dutch restaurant. Relax while savoring local cuisine and perhaps a local brew.

day 2
History and Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby ruins of the Hellendoorn Castle for a glimpse into the region's history. Take a guided tour to learn fascinating stories from the past.

afternoon
:

Head to the local museum to explore exhibits that highlight Hellendoorn's cultural heritage. Engage with interactive displays and workshops for a fun experience.

evening
:

Stroll through the town center and enjoy a quiet evening at a café. Try some Dutch pastries with a cup of coffee as you reflect on the day's adventures.

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural surroundings, including forests and parks.
  • Quiet, friendly community atmosphere.
  • Close proximity to attractions like the Adventure Park Hellendoorn.
  • Good access to cycling and walking routes.
  • Rich cultural heritage with historical sites in the area.
  • Limited public transport options compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer entertainment and shopping choices.
  • Potentially lower job opportunities in certain sectors.
  • Can be quite quiet, which may not appeal to everyone.
  • Weather can be overcast and rainy at times.

Best Activities in Hellendoorn

Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!

Hellendoorn Adventure Park

A popular amusement park with thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment, perfect for a day of outdoor fun.

Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park

Explore the scenic trails, woodlands, and heathlands for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting amidst beautiful natural surroundings.

Hellendoornse Berg

Enjoy outdoor activities such as rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking on the scenic Hellendoornse Berg hill.

Tours

Uncover the best of Hellendoorn with these unforgettable tours.

Places to Visit in Hellendoorn

Visit one of these nice places.

Hellendoornse Berg

Offers stunning panoramic views of Hellendoorn and the surrounding landscape, perfect for photography and sightseeing.

Avonturenpark Hellendoorn

A popular theme park with various attractions and areas that provide great photo opportunities, especially for families and thrill-seekers.

Food in Hellendoorn

Hellendoorn, Netherlands offers a delightful fusion of traditional Dutch cuisine and global influences. With its rich agricultural heritage and proximity to fresh ingredients, food in Hellendoorn is a celebration of local flavors and international tastes.

Hellendoorn Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Poffertjes

These mini Dutch pancakes are a must-try, typically topped with powdered sugar and butter. Visit the Poffertjeskraam at Hellendoorn Plein to savor the best in town.

Must-Try!

Boerenkool Stamppot

Try this hearty Dutch dish of mashed potatoes and kale, often served with smoked sausage. Restaurant De Gulle Goedzak is renowned for its excellent Boerenkool Stamppot.

Hollandse Nieuwe Haring

For seafood enthusiasts, sampling the Netherlands' famous new herring is a must. Look for the herring carts at the local markets for a fresh and authentic experience.

Unique Experiences

Get to know Hellendoorn better with these unique experiences.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Hellendoornse Streekmarkt

This local market is a treasure trove of regional produce, cheeses, and meats. Visitors can also enjoy street food like hot poffertjes, freshly made stroopwafels, and haring.

Culinaire Verleidingen

This food festival, held annually in Hellendoorn, features a wide array of street food from local vendors, offering everything from traditional Dutch snacks to global delicacies.

Weather

This region experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by moderate temperatures and rainfall throughout the year. Summers are generally mild to warm, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). Winters can be chilly, with average temperatures between 0 and 5 degrees Celsius (32 to 41 degrees Fahrenheit). Precipitation is fairly evenly distributed across the months, though late summer and autumn may see slightly higher amounts. The area experiences frequent overcast skies and is subject to occasional winds, particularly from the North Sea. Snowfall can occur in the winter, but it is usually light and melts quickly. Overall, the climate is conducive to lush vegetation, making it a picturesque area.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

It is important to greet people with a handshake and direct eye contact in Hellendoorn, Netherlands. This shows respect and acknowledges the person you are meeting.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Hellendoorn. Punctuality is seen as a sign of respect for other people's time and schedules.

Dining Etiquette

At the dining table, it is customary to wait for the host to start eating before you do. Also, it is polite to keep your hands above the table during the meal.

Hidden Gems

Discover the hidden gems of Hellendoorn with these exclusive activities.

Safety

Situated in the Netherlands, this town is known for its family-oriented atmosphere and community spirit. Safety in this area tends to be high, as the Netherlands generally has low crime rates. The local police maintain a visible presence to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. Community initiatives also promote vigilance and a sense of responsibility among citizens. This collaborative approach often leads to a secure environment, where public places are well-lit and regularly monitored. Emergency services are easily accessible, and there are organized neighborhood watch programs to foster communication and cooperation among residents. Moreover, the region benefits from a well-maintained infrastructure that supports safe transportation, including bike paths and pedestrian areas. Local authorities frequently engage in safety awareness campaigns, further enhancing the overall sense of security. The combination of community involvement, low crime rates, and effective law enforcement contributes to its reputation as a safe place to live and visit.

Tipping in Hellendoorn

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

In the Netherlands, including Hellendoorn, tipping is not mandatory as a service charge is often included in the bill. However, it is common to leave a small tip, usually rounding up the bill to the nearest Euro or leaving a 5-10% tip for excellent service.

Payment

In Hellendoorn, as in the rest of the Netherlands, electronic payments are widely accepted, including credit cards and debit cards. Cash is also commonly used, especially for smaller transactions, but many places prefer electronic payments.

Top Things To Do

Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Hellendoorn.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Hellendoorn, Netherlands as the weather starts to warm up and the flowers begin to bloom. You can expect mild temperatures and beautiful scenery with colorful flowers.

Summer

Summer is the peak season for visiting Hellendoorn, Netherlands. This is the time when the weather is warm and perfect for outdoor activities. You can expect long days, festivals, and lively outdoor events.

Autumn

Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Hellendoorn, Netherlands as the leaves change color and the landscape becomes picturesque. You can expect cooler weather and the opportunity to enjoy the fall foliage.

Winter

Winter is a magical time to visit Hellendoorn, Netherlands as the town transforms into a winter wonderland. You can expect cold temperatures and the chance to enjoy winter activities such as ice skating and traditional holiday markets.

Hellendoorn at Night

The nightlife in Hellendoorn, Netherlands offers a laid-back and cozy atmosphere suited for those who enjoy a more intimate and relaxed evening out. Though it may not have the bustling nightlife of larger Dutch cities, Hellendoorn has its unique charms. The local pubs and bars are popular hangout spots where you can enjoy a range of Dutch beers, wines, and other beverages. These establishments often have a friendly and welcoming vibe, making it easy to strike up conversations with locals. For live music enthusiasts, some venues occasionally feature local bands and musicians, providing an opportunity to enjoy live performances in a more casual setting. Additionally, seasonal events and festivals bring extra vibrancy to the town, often featuring live music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere. Many of the restaurants in Hellendoorn offer a cozy dining experience that extends into the evening, where you can enjoy local and international cuisine paired with fine wines or craft beers. Some of these restaurants may also host themed nights or special events. For those looking for a bit more activity, nearby towns and cities provide additional options for a varied nightlife experience. Overall, Hellendoorn offers a peaceful yet enjoyable nightlife scene, perfect for those who prefer a more tranquil and community-oriented evening out.

Hiking in Hellendoorn

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hiking Area Hellendoorn

A beautiful natural area offering various trails through forests and hills, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park

A national park located a short drive from Hellendoorn, featuring stunning heathlands and diverse hiking trails.

Boswachterij Hellendoorn

A forest area with marked hiking routes, providing opportunities to explore the natural beauty and wildlife of the region.

Nijverdalsche Berg

A hilly landscape with well-maintained hiking paths offering panoramic views and a variety of flora.

De Regge Valley

A scenic area along the Regge River featuring walking trails, picnic spots, and beautiful countryside views.

Unforgettable Journeys

Delve deeper into Hellendoorn through these rare and unique activities.

Aiports

How to reach Hellendoorn by plane.

Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)

The main international airport in the Netherlands, located approximately 120 kilometers from Hellendoorn.

Eindhoven Airport (EIN)

An international airport situated around 150 kilometers from Hellendoorn, serving several low-cost carriers.

Groningen Airport Eelde (GRQ)

A smaller international airport located approximately 90 kilometers northeast of Hellendoorn.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTM)

An international airport located about 130 kilometers from Hellendoorn, serving both scheduled flights and charters.

Osnabrück Airport (FMO)

Located roughly 80 kilometers from Hellendoorn, it serves both domestic and international flights.

Walkability

This small town, located in the Netherlands, is characterized by its compact layout, making it relatively easy to get around on foot. The community is designed to accommodate pedestrians with well-maintained sidewalks and pathways. Key amenities such as shops, schools, and parks are often within walking distance, promoting a lifestyle that favors walking over driving. The surrounding natural landscape adds to the appeal; scenic trails and parks encourage outdoor activities and leisurely strolls. While public transportation options may be available, many residents find that walking suffices for their everyday needs. The mixture of residential areas, local businesses, and green spaces creates an inviting environment for pedestrians, enhancing the community feel and encouraging social interactions among residents. Overall, the walkability of the area contributes to a healthier and more sustainable lifestyle for its inhabitants.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dutch

The majority ethnic group in Hellendoorn, comprising a significant percentage of the population.

German

A notable demographic group due to the proximity to the German border and historical connections.

Turkish

A demographic group that has settled in various parts of the Netherlands, including Hellendoorn.

Moroccan

Another significant minority group in the region, contributing to the multicultural fabric of the area.

Other European Nationalities

Includes a variety of European nationalities, such as Polish and Romanian communities.

Non-Western Immigrants

Comprises individuals from various non-Western countries, contributing to the diversity of Hellendoorn.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football is one of the most popular sports in Hellendoorn, with many local clubs and youth teams participating in leagues.

Volleyball

Volleyball enjoys popularity in Hellendoorn, with both recreational and competitive teams contributing to community engagement.

Field Hockey

Field hockey is played by various age groups in Hellendoorn, promoting active participation and teamwork.

Tennis

Tennis is a beloved sport in Hellendoorn, with several clubs offering coaching and facilities for players of all levels.

Cycling

Cycling is a common sport and recreational activity in and around Hellendoorn, with many scenic routes and bike paths.

Traffic

Located in the Overijssel province, this small town experiences a mix of local and through traffic typical of rural Dutch communities. The road network is well-maintained, with bike paths often integrated alongside car routes, reflecting the country’s strong cycling culture. Most traffic consists of residents commuting to nearby cities or engaging in daily activities within the town. During peak hours, the main roads can become busier, especially as people travel for work or school. However, congestion is generally mild compared to larger urban centers. The presence of various attractions, such as theme parks and nature reserves in the vicinity, can lead to increased traffic during weekends and holidays as visitors flock to the area. Local initiatives often promote sustainable transport options, including cycling and public transport, contributing to a balanced and efficient transportation system. Overall, traffic flow is manageable, and the town maintains a peaceful atmosphere typical of smaller Dutch communities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Hellendoorn.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

Most restaurants in Hellendoorn offer vegetarian options, with an increasing number providing vegan dishes. Additionally, organic salad bars and vegan-friendly cafes are becoming more prevalent in the area.

Gluten-Free Choices

While awareness of gluten-free diets is growing, it's advisable for those with gluten restrictions to communicate their needs to the restaurant staff. Some eateries do offer gluten-free versions of traditional Dutch fare.

Healthcare

The healthcare system in this region is integrated into the broader Dutch healthcare framework, which is known for its accessibility and high quality of service. Residents typically have access to a range of medical services, including general practitioners (GPs), specialized medical care, hospitals, and outpatient services. The country operates on a dual health insurance system, where citizens are required to have basic health insurance, which covers essential medical care. This insurance is provided by various private companies, and individuals can shop around for the best coverage to fit their personal needs. In addition to primary care, there are also rehabilitation, mental health, and long-term care services available, ensuring diverse health needs are met. The region is supported by both local healthcare providers and larger hospitals that may be found in nearby cities, guaranteeing that residents have access to the necessary facilities for more specialized treatment. Public health campaigns are also a significant aspect of the healthcare model, focusing on preventive care and promoting healthy lifestyles, which contributes to overall community health. Additionally, residents may have access to various health-related services, including physiotherapy and home care for elderly or disabled individuals. Overall, healthcare in this part of the Netherlands is characterized by a focus on accessibility, quality, and a strong emphasis on preventative care, aligning with national standards and expectations.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2024 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide