The Zanding - Mussels Sand - Otterlo

When you think of autumn walks, you think of Veluwe. From Otterlo you walk straight into the Zanding, an extensive heathland and sand area, via winding paths to the forest, over a high dune ridge. You pass the appropriate sign'let the sand drift\\\'. Here the path runs parallel to the Eskooter klompenpad. On the left you see a fenced rest area. Then you cross the Arnhemseweg - pay close attention - for the peace and quiet of the Planken Wambuis nature reserve. A must on this route is the Mosselse Zand, a calf biter to climb, with a magnificent view of the heathland and bare drifting sand. Incidentally, the name Mossel does not refer to the shellfish, but to moss. Hundreds of years ago, shepherds crossed the Veluwe with their flocks and built huts of moss at their lodgings. The addition el means forest.

You walk back through the Roeksel forest. You can see that the inhabited world is coming into view from the many bungalow parks, like an advanced post of Otterlo. On the Koeweg is'Childhood of the mountain\\\', a work of art by Adri Verhoeven, part of a Land Art route around Ede. Time and energy left? Then turn around and walk towards Kreelseweg where there is much more art by Verhoeven.

Length: (approx. 8.5 km)

Start and end point: De Wever Lodge, Onderlangs 35, Otterlo

Marking: Not signposted from start to finish, first follow the red posts, then the GPX from Route.nl

Dog allowed? Yes, on a leash.

Walking for Goodies:

*A delicious lunch - with oysters and cava - at De Wever Lodge, a small hotel in a beautiful villa. With fireplaces on the outdoor terrace.

Source: DPG Media / Claudia Straatmans