Things To Do
in Epe
Epe is a charming Gelderland town where waterways and green countryside meet Dutch rural life. Nestled at the northern edge of the Veluwe, it offers easy access to forests, lakes, and scenic cycling routes. The town Center blends historic streets with cozy cafes, family farms, and friendly locals, making it a relaxed base for exploring central Netherlands.
Visitors come for outdoor activities, a peaceful atmosphere, and convenient connections to bigger cities like Apeldoorn and Zwolle.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a leisurely stroll through the charming lanes of Epe, greeting locals and admiring flower-lined facades. The fresh morning air and gentle bird songs set a peaceful tone as you head toward the market square. Capture photographs of historic buildings before they bustle with afternoon activity.
Wander through the lively town market, sampling artisanal cheeses, freshly baked breads, and seasonal produce. Chat with friendly vendors to discover the stories behind their homemade goods. Sit at a sidewalk café for a traditional apple pie and coffee while you watch daily life unfold.
As dusk falls, board a small canal cruiser for a scenic cruise around Epe’s waterways, enjoying the golden glow on old brick walls. Return to town for a cozy meal at a family-run restaurant, trying hearty local specialties like smoked sausages and potato stew. End the evening with a leisurely walk under softly lit streets, soaking in the tranquil ambiance.
Set out at dawn to Veluwezoom National Park, where the early light illuminates rolling hills and heathlands. Follow marked trails as red deer and wild boar graze undisturbed in the distance. Pause on a hilltop to take in panoramic views and capture photographs of the vibrant heath.
Join a guided nature walk led by a local ranger who explains the park’s unique ecosystems and conservation efforts. Spot rare bird species along forested lakeshores and learn about the region’s geology. Refresh yourself with a picnic of rye bread sandwiches and local apples at a shaded clearing.
Head back to Epe for a candlelit dinner at a quaint inn, sampling wild mushroom risotto paired with a crisp Veluwe craft beer. Enjoy a short concert of traditional Dutch folk music in the courtyard. Stroll back under a star-studded sky, reflecting on the day’s natural wonders.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-20 |
| 💧Bottle of water (0.5L) | $1-2 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🏨1 night in a mid-range hotel | $90-150 |
| 🚆Local train/bus trip (short distance) | $5-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful town with easy access to Veluwe nature
- Walkable center and strong cycling culture
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to bigger cities
- Limited international dining options within town limits
- "Hallo" - Hello
- "Goedendag" - Good day
- "Dank je wel" - Thank you
- "Alsjeblieft" - Please / Here you go
- "Spreekt u Engels?" - Do you speak English?
- "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hoeveel kost dit?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ik wil dit graag" - I would like this
- "Kan ik betalen met pin?" - Can I pay by card?
Places to Visit in Epe
Visit one of these nice places.
Cobbled streets, historic façades, and a lively square ideal for daytime street photography and golden-hour portraits.
Open water views with grassy banks and boats; great for sunrise or dusk shots over the river.
Calm waters, reed beds, and reflections during early mornings or late afternoons; ideal for tranquil landscape photography.
Food in Epe
Epe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting mashed-potato dish mixed with vegetables, typically served with smoked sausage. Commonly found in local eateries and farm cafés.
Must-Try!
Kale stamppot often paired with gravy and sausages; a traditional winter staple in many Dutch homes and restaurants.
Dutch apple pie with a crumbly crust and cinnamon notes; widely available in bakeries and cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A weekly market offering cheeses, fresh produce, bread, pastries, and ready-to-eat snacks from local vendors.
Seasonal stalls near water edges offering herring bites, stroopwafels, and small savory pastries.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
The Dutch tend to be direct; speak politely, maintain queues, and respect personal space on sidewalks and bike lanes.
Safety
Tipping in Epe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated for good service; rounding up bills or leaving 5-10% is common in restaurants if service charge is not included.
Debit/credit cards and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still okay at markets and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming countryside; great for cycling, photo walks, and enjoying markets as the town comes alive after winter.
Warm days with long daylight; perfect for outdoor cafés, lake activities, and sunset photography by the water.
Crimson forests and golden light; ideal for scenic drives, woodland hikes, and harvest dishes at local eateries.
Cool to cold with a chance of frost; cozy cafés, hearty meals, and atmospheric evenings; occasional market and light displays.
Epe at Night
Hiking in Epe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Looping forest paths with gentle elevation changes; ideal for nature photography and wildlife spotting.
Distinctive sandy landscapes near Kootwijk; great for unique landscape photography and expansive views.
Wetlands and lake edges with birdlife; easy trails suitable for a relaxed day outdoors.
Airports
How to reach Epe by plane.
Main international gateway; train or drive to Epe via regional connections; about 1.5-2 hours by train depending on transfers.
Regional hub with several European routes; reachable by road with a transfer from major Dutch rail lines.
Smaller international airport; accessible by road and rail combinations; useful for some European connections.
Smaller regional airport offering some seasonal routes; convenient for northern trips and rental car access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant population with a strong sense of regional Gelderland identity; family-oriented community.
Smaller immigrant and international groups present, reflecting typical Dutch town diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A top activity due to flat terrain and scenic routes through forests, fields, and along canals.
Common in community clubs and school teams; local leagues and friendly matches are typical on weekends.
Popular on the IJssel and nearby lakes; many locals enjoy water sports in summer.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Epe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer vegetarian options; look for dairy-based dishes, mushroom swaps, or veggie stamppot; inform staff about no meat and request cheese or egg-based toppings.