What to do in Twente

Twente is a beautiful region in the eastern part of the Netherlands and is known for its beautiful nature, historic villages and cozy atmosphere. Once you visit Twente, you are right out of it. There are so many fun activities, beautiful natural areas and picturesque villages in Twente that it is too much to list them all. But because we do want to introduce you to Twente, in this blog you will find some tips and our own favorites to do in Twente.

Fun activities in Twente

There really is plenty to do in Twente. Here are a few fun examples:

1. Water activities – The Twente region has several lakes and rivers where you can enjoy water sports such as canoeing, supping and swimming. The Hulsbeek in Oldenzaal, for example, is a popular place for water sports.
2. Adventure activities – If you are looking for more adventurous activities, Twente also has a lot to offer. For example, you can canoe on the rivers, mountain bike in the forests, horseback ride in the moors, or even fly or paraglide at Enschede Airport.
3. Visiting castles – Twente has a number of beautiful castles you can visit, such as Twickel Castle in Delden, Weldam Castle and Warmelo and Diepenheim Castles in Diepenheim.
4. Events – Twente has an array of events throughout the year that are well worth a visit. For example, there are numerous festivals, markets, concerts and sporting events that take place in the region.
5. Museums – For a cultural outing, there are many museums in Twente, such as the Rijksmuseum Twenthe in Enschede, the Salt Museum in Delden and the Open Air Museum Oostmarsum.

Visit one of the historic villages or towns

One of the most beautiful towns in Twente is Ootmarsum. This picturesque village is known for its beautiful old buildings, narrow streets and cozy atmosphere. You can take a lovely walk here and enjoy the historic atmosphere. One of the highlights of Ootmarsum is the Open Air Museum Ootmarsum, where you can see how life in Twente used to be.

And have you ever been to Delden? This historic village was founded in the 11th century and has a rich history dating back to the Middle Ages. The historic center of Delden is well worth a visit, with its charming cobbled streets and beautiful old buildings. The Hof van Twente City Museum, housed in an old farmhouse from the 18th century, offers a glimpse into the lives of locals over the centuries.

Another beautiful place to visit is the town of Diepenheim. Diepenheim is known for its castles, including Kasteel Warmelo and Kasteel Diepenheim. These castles are beautiful to see and are surrounded by beautiful gardens and forests.

Nature reserves with the most beautiful hiking and cycling routes

Twente is known for its extensive nature and landscapes. It is therefore no surprise that Twente and its surroundings are home to several nature reserves.

The most beautiful areas to explore by bike are:

• The Twents Reggedal is a beautiful area in Twente, located around the river Regge. The area is characterized by a varied landscape of meadows, forests and moors. It is a popular place for hikers, cyclists and nature lovers. You can enjoy the peace and space, but also the pleasant villages and towns in the area, such as Rijssen.
• Northeast Twente is an area known for its coulisse landscape. The area is characterized by meadows, wooded banks and meandering streams. A beautiful area for cycling. In the area are several routes that lead past the most beautiful places. For example, the “Heideroute”, a bicycle route of 34 kilometers that leads past the most beautiful heaths of the area.
• Het Hoogveen in Twente is a nature reserve located on the border of the Netherlands and Germany. The area is characterized by extensive moorlands and is an important breeding ground for birds. The “Grensroute”, a 43-kilometer bicycle route takes you along the most beautiful spots on the border of the Netherlands and Germany.
• Twickel and its surroundings is a nature reserve located in the municipality of Hof van Twente. The area is characterized by extensive estates, forests and meadows. In the area are several routes that lead past the most beautiful places. For example, there is the “Twickel route“, a bicycle route that takes you along the most beautiful places in Twente and introduces you to the Twickel estate.

The most beautiful hiking trails can be found in the nature reserves:

• Het Lutterzand – This beautiful nature reserve is located near De Lutte and is known for its impressive sand drifts and heathlands. A perfect place to enjoy hiking by yourself or to follow one of the hiking trails.
• The Buurserzand – A large nature reserve near Buurse, with several hiking trails through the moors, forests and along the Buursermeerje.
• The Sallandse Heuvelrug – A large nature reserve stretching across several municipalities in Twente and Salland. This area is also known for its hills, moors and forests.
• Het Springendal – In this nature reserve near Ootmarsum you will find beautiful streams, springs and waterfalls. Highly recommended for a nice walk.
• Het Dal van de Mosbeek – A beautiful nature reserve near Mander with a beautiful stream, waterfalls and heathlands. Ideal for walking and enjoying the peace and nature.

Fun Guided Tours

Would you rather be shown around than explore on your own? You can! There are many different tours you can book for during your visit to Twente.

For example, book a city tour in Enschede and pass by the Old Market, the Grote Kerk and the Rijksmuseum Twenthe. Or go on the culinary tour(s). Get acquainted with the rich culinary traditions of Twente during a culinary tour that leads you past the tastiest addresses. For example, you will pass local cheese farms, beer breweries and vineyards. There are also several city tours where you stop along the way at local restaurants and eateries.

Or take in the culture on one of the historical tours. These lead you past the most important sights and historical buildings of the region. For example, you can take a tour of castles, estates and old farms.

Relax in the tea garden

Besides the beautiful villages, Twente also has many cozy tea gardens where you can relax and enjoy a cup of tea and a nice piece of cake. One of the best tea gardens in Twente is De Karmeliet in Zenderen. This tea garden is located in a former monastery and has a beautiful garden where you can sit and enjoy the peace and quiet. Besides tea and cake, you can also come here for a tasty lunch.

Another nice tea garden is De Kolenbrander in Hengevelde. This tea garden is located in an old farmhouse and has a cozy atmosphere. Order a delicious High Tea here with all kinds of tasty snacks and tea.

Eating out in Twente

Besides tea gardens, Twente also has many good restaurants where you can enjoy delicious food. One of the best restaurants in Twente is De Bloemenbeek in De Lutte. This restaurant has a Michelin star and is in a beautiful location. This is because the restaurant is located in an old farmhouse and has a beautiful garden where you can dine.

Another good restaurant is De Oude Apotheek in Losser. This restaurant is located in a former pharmacy and has a cozy atmosphere. Here you can enjoy delicious dishes with local products.

Enjoying pure local products

Would you like to get acquainted with the best regional products from Twente? Then visit the Twentse Bierbrouwerij in Hengelo, which produces a variety of beers, including the famous ‘Twents Oer’. Or enjoy the delicious Twente farmhouse cheeses. There are several cheese farms in the region that produce cheese using traditional methods.

And have you ever tried genuine Twentse bakleverworst? This sausage is made from pork, liver and bacon and is flavored with various herbs and spices. The sausage is then baked in the oven, giving it a delicious flavor and texture. The bakliver sausage is a true specialty of Twente and is often eaten on bread or as part of a drinks board.

And of course don’t forget the widely known Twente krentenwegge! This delicious sweet bread is especially popular during special occasions, such as weddings and Christmas. The bread is made from wheat flour, currants, raisins and sugar and has a unique taste and texture. The krentenwegge is often served with butter and is a must-try for anyone who wants to discover Twente cuisine.

And what about Twente honey? Twente has a thriving beekeeping industry, so the local honey is of excellent quality. The bees collect nectar from various flowers and plants in the region, resulting in the honey’s unique taste and aroma. For example, the honey from Imkerij de Werkbij in Vriezenveen is very popular among locals.

Staying overnight in Twente

Are you still planning your visit to Twente and looking for a place to stay overnight? We have some tips for that too.

Twente countryside

Erve Hulsbeek is a luxurious four-star superior hotel with an attractive restaurant. A real family business that strives to make the guest feel at home. There is a high range of rooms such as comfort rooms, deluxe rooms, family rooms and suites. Our restaurant has a beautiful terrace located on a historic pond where you can enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner or to have drinks and admire the view. Our hotel is located at Landgoed Het Hulsbeek in Oldenzaal. Here, among other things, are beautiful hiking trails and sauna Saré, Outdoor Challenge Park and many more activities are within walking distance. The location is suitable for young and old, relaxation and activities! Our guests often come back to us because they feel the hospitality in our company, we radiate that!

More beautiful hotels in Twente

• Landgoed De Holtweijde – Located in the heart of the Twente countryside, this five-star hotel offers guests the ultimate in relaxation. The hotel features a spa, an indoor pool and a Michelin-starred restaurant.
• IntercityHotel Enschede – Located in the heart of the city of Enschede, this modern hotel offers easy access to its many attractions and stores. The hotel features comfortable rooms and a restaurant overlooking the train station.
• Hotel ‘t Lansink – Housed in a former textile factory in Hengelo, this historic hotel offers guests a unique blend of modern facilities and rich history. The hotel has a restaurant known for its culinary delights.

Bed and Breakfasts

• B&B Erve Fakkert – Located in the quiet village of Langeveen, this charming bed and breakfast offers guests an authentic Twente experience. The house is decorated with antique furniture and features a beautiful garden.
• B&B Erve Wezenberg – Located in the beautiful Twente countryside, this bed and breakfast offers guests a peaceful and relaxing vacation. The house features comfortable rooms and an extensive breakfast.
• B&B Erve Het Klaashuis – Located in a quiet location in the village of Rossum, this stylish bed and breakfast offers guests a delicious breakfast and a beautiful garden to relax.< /li>

Campsites in Twente

• The Molenhof Campground is a family campground located in Reutum. The campsite offers many activities for the whole family, such as an indoor and outdoor swimming pool, playgrounds and a petting zoo. The camping sites range from standard sites to deluxe sites with private bathroom facilities. The campground is also near beautiful hiking and biking trails.
• Camping de Rammelbeek is a cozy campsite located in Lattrop. The campsite offers spacious pitches and various rental accommodations, such as chalets and safari tents. The campsite also has a swimming pool, playground and recreation room. In addition, the campsite is surrounded by beautiful nature, including the Springendal nature reserve.
• Camping De Papillon is located in Denekamp and offers spacious camping pitches and various rental accommodations. The campsite has facilities such as a swimming pool, playground, tennis court and a restaurant. In addition, the campsite is located near attractions such as the castle of Bad Bentheim in Germany and the adventure park Hellendoorn.

Credits photos: Canva.com and Buitenplaats Erve Hulsbeek