Things To Do
in Kaatsheuvel

Kaatsheuvel is a charming village in the southern Netherlands, known primarily for its proximity to the famous Efteling theme park. Nestled in the municipality of Loon op Zand, it offers a mix of beautiful landscapes, family-friendly attractions, and a rich local history. The village features traditional Dutch architecture and is surrounded by lush forests and parks.

Visitors can enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while being just a stone's throw away from the excitement of one of Europe's most popular amusement parks.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Efteling
morning
:

Start your day at Efteling, arriving early to beat the crowds and enjoy rides like the Droomvlucht and Baron 1898.

afternoon
:

Continue exploring the park, taking a break for lunch at one of the themed restaurants within Efteling, such as the Polles Keuken.

evening
:

Stay for the park's evening show, which features stunning light displays and fireworks before heading back to your accommodation.

day 2
Day 2: Discover Nature and Local Culture
morning
:

Visit the nearby Loonse en Drunense Duinen National Park for a scenic walk or bike ride through the striking sand dunes and heathland.

afternoon
:

After your hike, head into the village for lunch at a local café, followed by a visit to the Kaatsheuvel Museum to learn about the region's history.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant, followed by a leisurely stroll around the quaint streets of Kaatsheuvel.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Domestic beer$5
🚍Public transport ticket$2
🏨Night in a hotel$100

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Efteling theme park, a major attraction.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and parks for outdoor activities.
  • Family-friendly atmosphere with various local events.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded during peak tourist seasons.
  • Public transport options may be limited for further travel.
  • "Dank u" - Thank you
  • "Alsjeblieft" - Please
  • "Hoe gaat het?" - How are you?
  • "Ik spreek geen Nederlands" - I don’t speak Dutch
  • "Waar is het toilet?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Kaatsheuvel

Visit one of these nice places.

Efteling Fairytale Forest

A beautifully themed area within Efteling that features whimsical scenes inspired by classic fairy tales, perfect for enchanting photos.

Loonse en Drunense Duinen

A stunning natural landscape with expansive sand dunes and heathlands, providing a picturesque backdrop for outdoor photography.

Kaatsheuvel Windmill

A charming traditional Dutch windmill located in the village, offering a classic photo opportunity and a glimpse into the region's history.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kaatsheuvel

Kaatsheuvel offers visitors a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Dutch dishes and modern cuisine. Local restaurants showcase regional specialties, and many eateries cater to a variety of dietary needs.

Kaatsheuvel Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Stamppot

A traditional Dutch dish made of mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, often served with sausage.

Must-Try!

Bitterballen

A popular Dutch snack, these are deep-fried balls filled with a mixture of beef or veal stew.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kaatsheuvel Market

A weekly market where you can find fresh produce, local delicacies, and street food vendors offering a variety of snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kaatsheuvel experiences a temperate maritime climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold, with temperatures averaging between -1°C to 5°C (30°F to 41°F) and occasional snowfall. Spring brings mild temperatures from 6°C to 15°C (43°F to 59°F), perfect for outdoor activities. Summers are warm, averaging 16°C to 25°C (61°F to 77°F), ideal for visiting Efteling and enjoying outdoor events. Autumn sees temperatures drop to 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F) with beautiful foliage.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is considered polite; whether for meetings or social gatherings, punctuality is highly valued.

Greetings

A firm handshake is the common form of greeting, and it's customary to greet everyone in a group.

Direct Communication

The Dutch are known for their straightforward communication style; it’s important to be honest and direct in conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kaatsheuvel is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it's always wise to take standard precautions such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and there are local medical facilities available for any health concerns.

Tipping in Kaatsheuvel

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping in the Netherlands is not mandatory; however, rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (5-10%) for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Kaatsheuvel, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild weather with blooming flowers, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the parks.

Summer

Warm temperatures make it ideal for visiting Efteling, but be prepared for larger crowds during peak holiday periods.

Autumn

Enjoy crisp air and beautiful fall foliage, along with quieter attractions as the summer crowds dissipate.

Winter

Cold temperatures may bring snow, creating a picturesque winter wonderland, especially during the holiday season at Efteling.

Nightlife Guide

Kaatsheuvel at Night

Kaatsheuvel has a relaxed nightlife scene primarily focused on socializing in pubs and casual bars. While it may not have extensive nightlife options, there are cozy venues where locals gather to enjoy drinks and conversation. Visitors can also find live music events and seasonal festivals that add to the evening atmosphere. For those seeking more vibrant nightlife, nearby cities like Tilburg offer a wider range of bars and clubs.

Hiking in Kaatsheuvel

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Het Loonse en Drunense Duinen Trail

A scenic trail that winds through the stunning sand dunes and heathlands of the national park, suitable for all hiking levels.

Braakhuizense Heide Trail

A beautiful hiking route that offers views of heathland and diverse flora and fauna, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Kaatsheuvel by plane.

Eindhoven Airport

Approximately 40 km away, Eindhoven Airport is the closest major airport, offering various international and domestic flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kaatsheuvel is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The village has well-maintained sidewalks and pedestrian paths, making it easy for visitors to explore on foot. The surrounding natural areas also offer opportunities for enjoyable walks in a peaceful setting.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Kaatsheuvel is home to many families, drawn by the area's child-friendly attractions and educational opportunities.

Tourists

The village sees a significant influx of tourists, particularly families, drawn to the nearby Efteling theme park.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a popular sport in Kaatsheuvel, with local clubs and community leagues active throughout the year.

Cycling

Cycling is a favored pastime in the region, with numerous cycling routes that attract both locals and tourists.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kaatsheuvel is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking for short distances. Public transportation options include buses that connect Kaatsheuvel to nearby cities. However, during peak tourist seasons, traffic can increase due to visitors heading to Efteling.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kaatsheuvel.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Kaatsheuvel offer vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that plant-based diners have plenty of choices.

Gluten-Free

Several eateries cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advised to confirm with staff about cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Kaatsheuvel has access to local healthcare facilities, including general practitioners and pharmacies. In case of emergencies, the nearest hospital is located in Tilburg, approximately 15 minutes away by car. Visitors are advised to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses while abroad.

Discover Netherlands

Read more in our Netherlands 2025 Travel Guide.

Netherlands Travel Guide