Wandering about Landgoed Oldenaller

One of the most beautiful walks in and around Putten, is (in my opinion) klompenpad Oldenaller, an 8-kilometre hike that takes you alternately over farmland, heathland and through castle woods.

I have hiked the wooden shoe path in its entirety many times before. Now it's time to explore a little better the estate the path takes its name from.

The bridge at Oldenaller
We park the car in the car park on the corner of Oldenallerallee and Nijkerkerstraat. A large stone column commemorates the attack in September 1944, which led to the Putten round-up on 1 and 2 October 1944. An event that continues to play an important role to this day and is commemorated annually at the ‘De Vrouw van Putten’ monument.

The castle
We cross the Oldenallerallee and walk along the driveway, flanked by large trees, towards the estate. The castle rises majestically amongst the trees and is surrounded by a beautiful woodland park, complete with a pond and moat. Just beyond the bridge, you’ll find a large fenced-off vegetable garden and orchard (these are not accessible). The benches in the woodland park offer, especially in spring and summer, stunning views and a welcome place to rest during your walk.

Herons
If you follow the paths, you’ll soon reach the edge of the woodland park. It’s a hive of activity high up in the trees: the colony of grey herons that lives here is busy building its nests. From early April, you’ll hear the young herons squawking for fresh fish, which their parents fly in from the streams and pools of the neighbouring Arkemheen polder. Don’t just look up – keep a close eye on the ground too! You might spot one of the greenish eggshells that have fallen out of the nest.

In short: are you looking for a walk that is full of history, but where you won't be on the road all day immediately? Then Landgoed Oldenaller is definitely a must. If you do want to go for a longer walk, follow the route of Klompenpad Oldenaller (route and accompanying information is available from VVV Putten).

Please note that the castle is occupied and is not accessible itself.

Blog written by: Marieke Grift on 31-03-2022