Attractions and Places To See around Altena - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Altena include a blend of natural landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences. The region is characterized by its position along the Lenne river and its surrounding Sauerland hills, offering a mix of water-based activities and woodland exploration. Visitors can explore medieval castles, delve into industrial heritage, and enjoy diverse outdoor activities. The area provides opportunities for hiking, cycling, and discovering unique points of interest.
Best attractions and places to see around Altena
- The…
Last updated: May 26, 2026
De Biesbosch National Park
Highlight • Natural
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New Merwede Ferry (Kop van 't Land – Werkendam)
Highlight • Rest Area
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Cycling Path Through Loonse en Drunense Duinen
Highlight • Cycleway
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Dog Off-Leash Area – Loonse en Drunense Duinen
Highlight • Trail
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Gorinchem Canals
Highlight • River
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Popular around Altena
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Pilgrim Trail (LAW 7-1) - Through idyllic villages and vast polders
The Meuse Cycle Route - Follow the Meuse from the hills to the harbor
Four versatile Brabant – Nature camping route Noord-Brabant
Below the waterline of the Sint-Elisabethsvloed – Biesboschpad
Bourgondisch Brabant - 20 tasty nature walks
History and Nature – walking the Waterliniepad
Cycle through water-rich Holland along the sea – LF9 NAP Route
Amsterdam to 's-Hertogenbosch – Pilgrims’ Path part 1
A complete hiking bucket list through every Dutch National Park
Other adventures around Altena
Tips from the Community
Nice cycle path where you always have a front row seat to enjoy Erica's beauty.
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Come enjoy Erica's beauty at the right time.
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National Park De Biesbosch is on the list of protected nature reserves. De Biesbosch is partly used for agriculture and there is a lot of (water) recreation. Specially constructed reservoirs provide for the storage of clean surface water. Since 1994, De Biesbosch has been a national park, where work is now in full swing to give more space to the rivers.
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Easy and fast drive to cross the river and that only for just 1€ including beautiful views !
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The Loonse and Drunense Duinen National Park is a nature reserve in the Dutch province of Noord-Brabant. The area is around 3,500 hectares in size and has officially had national park status since 2002. The park offers a variation of dry sand drifts and coniferous forest and also includes the extensive valley zone of the small river Zandleij. Here lies the marshland De Brand with its variety of coppice, wet meadows and swampy areas. The majority of the park (approximately 30 km²) consists of drift sand areas. The area is therefore also known as the “Brabant Sahara”. The area is surrounded by towns and smaller villages. The largest towns nearby are the cities of 's-Hertogenbosch and Tilburg, approximately six kilometers away. To the west is Kaatsheuvel with the Efteling theme park.
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Sand, sand and more sand. With such a desert sometimes. But an area so beautiful.... different every season.
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On the Dordrecht side, there is a lovely café with a terrace on the dike. Next to the café is a vegetarian restaurant, sublime!
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Very nice with beautiful bike paths, a total of 70 km of cycling fun
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Altena?
Altena is surrounded by the lush Sauerland region, offering numerous natural features. You can visit De Biesbosch National Park, a unique freshwater tidal area ideal for hiking, cycling, and canoeing through its labyrinth of rivers and streams. The Loonse en Drunense Duinen nature reserve also provides beautiful landscapes for cycling and walking. Additionally, the Fuelbecketalsperre reservoir is a notable scenic spot, and the region features historical caves like Feldhof Cave.
Are there historical sites or cultural experiences in Altena?
Yes, Altena boasts a rich history. The iconic Altena Castle, perched on Wulfsegge hill, houses the Museum of the County of Mark and the World Youth Hostel Museum. You can also explore Burg Holtzbrinck, a restored baroque building now a cultural center, and stroll through the charming Old Town of Altena. The German Wire Museum highlights the town's industrial heritage as the 'Birthplace of Wire'.
What outdoor activities are popular near Altena's attractions?
The region around Altena is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy extensive hiking trails, including sections of the 'Sauerland-Höhenflug' and 'Drahthandelsweg'. Cycling is also very popular, with excellent paths through areas like Loonse en Drunense Duinen. For more specific routes, you can find detailed guides for hiking, cycling, and gravel biking around Altena.
Are there family-friendly activities available in Altena?
Absolutely! Many attractions cater to families. De Biesbosch National Park offers canoeing and wildlife spotting, while the Loonse en Drunense Duinen is great for family walks and bike rides. Altena Castle provides an 'adventure elevator' and hosts city rallies and treasure hunts. The Gorinchem Canals area with its city walls and windmills is also enjoyable for all ages.
Can I bring my dog to attractions around Altena?
Yes, there are dog-friendly options. The Dog Off-Leash Area – Loonse en Drunense Duinen is specifically designed for dogs to roam freely. Many natural trails and parks in the Sauerland region are also suitable for walks with dogs, though leash rules may apply in certain areas.
What is the best way to experience the Lenne River in Altena?
The Lenne River flows through Altena, and the Lenne Promenade (Lenneterrassen) offers a pleasant space for relaxation and enjoying the riverside scenery. You can also see unique 'wire trees' along the Lenne, which are sculptures commemorating Altena's wire production history.
Are there any unique points of interest or experiences in Altena?
Beyond the main landmarks, Altena offers unique experiences such as the 'adventure elevator' at Altena Castle, which provides an interactive journey with virtual mythical creatures. The town also hosts vibrant medieval markets and festivals throughout the year, particularly at Altena Castle, and features the distinctive 'wire trees' along the Lenne River.
What are the most popular cycling routes in the Altena area?
The region offers diverse cycling experiences. The Cycling Path Through Loonse en Drunense Duinen is a highly-rated route through a beautiful nature reserve. You can also explore the Gorinchem Canals area by bike. For more options, check the Cycling around Altena guide, which includes routes like the 'Water Line Fortresses Loop'.
How can I travel between different attractions in the region?
For crossing waterways, the New Merwede Ferry (Kop van 't Land – Werkendam) provides an excellent connection between the Sliedrechtse Biesbosch and the Brabantse Biesbosch, accommodating pedestrians and bikes for a small fee. Within Altena itself, the 'adventure elevator' offers a unique way to reach Altena Castle from the city center.
What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions around Altena?
Visitors appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Many enjoy the extensive opportunities for outdoor activities like cycling and hiking in areas such as Loonse en Drunense Duinen and De Biesbosch National Park. The historical sites, especially Altena Castle and the charming old town of Gorinchem with its canals, are also highly praised for their ambiance and cultural significance.
Are there any accessible attractions for wheelchair users in Altena?
The New Merwede Ferry (Kop van 't Land – Werkendam) is noted as wheelchair accessible, providing a convenient way to cross the river. While specific accessibility details for all attractions are not available, many outdoor paths and promenades may offer varying degrees of accessibility. It's advisable to check specific venue information for detailed access.
Most popular attractions around Altena
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