Say Hilversum, and you say nature. Lace up your hiking shoes and come explore! Of course, you can wander freely across the heath or through the forests, but with a mapped-out route you won’t miss a thing. We’ve rounded up the most beautiful hikes in and around Hilversum for you... complete with starting points and junctions. When will you come and discover Hilversum’s nature?
Laapersveld & Hoorneboeg route
Starting point: Hilversum Sportpark Station
9.2 km
Set off on a beautiful walk from the Sportpark, following the railway line past small heathlands and through pine forests. Then head west for a scenic detour across the Hoorneboeg Heath, before looping back via the semi-urban estate of ’t Hoogt van ’t Kruis. Along the way, chances are you’ll come face to face with Charolais cattle!
Walking junctions:
81 > 47 > 39 > 46 > 45 > 44 > 48 > 49 > 81
Jagtlust route
Starting point: Smidsbrug in Kortenhoef
6.4 km
The Jagtlust route takes you through an area rich in history, along the northern edge of the Gooilust estate. Follow the beech-lined avenues of the 18th-century, French-style Sterrenbos, wander along winding paths through the park forest, and admire the impressive Trompenburgh estate along the way.
Walking junctions:
12 > 31 > 79 > 74 > 78 > 76 > 70 > 77 > 68 > 11
Town & forest route
Starting point: Dudokpark
10.4 km
Looking to combine city and nature in one walk? Start at Dudok’s iconic Town Hall and explore the leafy Boomberg neighbourhood, known for its beautiful avenues and villas. From there, continue through Corversbos and Spanderswoud, and stroll past the elegant homes of the Trompenberg district.
Walking junctions:
89 > 86 > 73 > 72 > 74 > 79 > 31 > 32 > 34 > 56 > 55 > 52 > 54 > 53
Zuiderheide route
Starting point: Hilversum Central Station
10.7 km
Hop on the train to Hilversum and start your walk from the central station towards Zuiderheide. From there, loop around the Laarder Wasmeer and continue across Anna’s Hoeve, before heading back through the eastern district to the station.
Walking junctions:
58 > 28 > 27 > 26 > 25 > 63 > 24 > 20 > 23 > 21 > 22 > 87 > 84 > 85 > 51
Uncle John route
Starting point: Zonnestraal Estate
5.3 km
Enjoy a short and scenic walk criss-crossing the Zonnestraal Estate and passing through a beautiful stretch of the Hoorneboeg Heath. Fun fact: the route is named after Zonnestraal’s founder, Jan van Zutphen, also known as “Uncle John.”
Walking junctions:
42 > 44 > 45 > 43 > 41
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Walking map Gooi & Vecht
Want to explore more? Don’t forget the surrounding region! How about a scenic loop around the Loosdrecht Lakes or a stroll through historic Naarden?
More about Hilversum?
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Unrivaled nature
Enjoy Hilversum’s natural surroundings. From sweeping heathlands and forests to historic country estates, parks and botanical gardens right in the heart of the city. Each one is a beautiful spot for a day out, outdoor sports or simply a breath of fresh air.
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Have a break!
Here you can enjoy coffee on a sunny terrace, have lunch in a great food hall, sip oysters in a trendy cocktail bar, and dine in a stunning industrial setting. From early morning until late at night, Hilversum is the place for great food and drinks.
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24-hour itineraries
Fancy a day out? Head to Hilversum and let the city surprise you. From creative hotspots and lively places to nature and architecture: you’ll experience more in a day than you’d expect. From your first coffee to a great night’s stay: pick your route and head out.