Top 20 Natural Monuments around Lochem

Visitors frequently enjoy the Trail to Holterberg for its beautiful nature and rewarding views. Another highly appreciated spot is the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park, known for its extensive cycle paths and scenic views. The Shelter at the top of the Kale Berg also offers a great resting point with views over the landscape.

Yes, the Lochemse Berg and Kale Berg are remnants of the penultimate ice age, formed by glacial pushing. On the Kale Berg, you'll find the Witte Wievenkoele, an old clay pit associated with local folklore. Additionally, the region features the Overijssel Resistance Memorial, a significant man-made monument commemorating resistance fighters from World War II.

The Lochemse Berg is notable for its diverse flora, including unique plant species like rowan and common fumitory, and a seepage spot with crystal-clear groundwater supporting water purslane and marsh cudweed. The region is also home to the 'Dikke Boom' at Landgoed Verwolde, recognized as the thickest single-stemmed oak in the Netherlands, estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old.

Many areas are suitable for families. The 'Dikke Boom' at Landgoed Verwolde has a specially constructed 'Dikke Boom-pad' that is accessible even for wheelchair users, making it great for all ages. The Shelter at the top of the Kale Berg provides a nice spot for families to rest and enjoy the view. The Warmelo Castle, while a man-made monument, is also listed as family-friendly with beautiful gardens.

The area around Lochem offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous running trails, including routes around the Lochemse Berg and Kale Berg. There are also many cycling routes, particularly in the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park, and dedicated road cycling routes that take you through the scenic landscape.

Yes, the Lochemse Berg and Kale Berg offer varied landscapes with numerous walking routes, including the 9-kilometer Lochemse Bergroute. Additionally, the Klompenpaden (Clog Paths) like the Laorns Enkenpad and Braakhekke Bultenpad provide scenic hiking trails through the rural areas, fields, and along stream banks, offering an authentic experience of the Dutch countryside.

The natural forest areas, particularly around the Lochemse Berg, are managed to be as wild as possible, providing a habitat for various animals. You might encounter weasels, polecats, and even the rare green woodpecker in these areas.

The natural monuments around Lochem can be enjoyed year-round. Spring brings blooming flora, while summer offers lush greenery for hiking and cycling. Autumn provides beautiful fall colors, especially in the forested areas of the Lochemse Berg and Kale Berg. Even in rainy weather, areas like the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park are described as great to visit due to well-paved paths.

Yes, the Trail to Holterberg offers a great view as a reward for your climb. The Shelter at the top of the Kale Berg also provides views of the surrounding landscape. Historically, the Lochemse Berg had an observation tower, and while no longer accessible, the hills themselves offer varied perspectives.

The 'Dikke Boom' is a massive pedunculate oak, recognized as the thickest single-stemmed oak in the Netherlands. It boasts a circumference of 7.8 meters and is estimated to be between 400 and 500 years old. Its impressive size, age, and historical mentions dating back to 1767 make it a remarkable and protected natural landmark.

Klompenpaden, or Clog Paths, are networks of scenic hiking trails that highlight the natural and cultural landscape. In the Lochem municipality, you can explore the Laorns Enkenpad (with an extension) and the Braakhekke Bultenpad. These paths often utilize unpaved tracks, offering an authentic experience of the Dutch countryside.

The Lochemse Berg and Kale Berg are significant geological features, being remnants of the Saalian glacial stage during the Pleistocene epoch. They were formed by glacial pushing, creating the gently rolling landscape characteristic of a push moraine. The Lochemse Berg, rising to 49.2 meters, is the highest point of this formation.