A charming little town in the gorgeous Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park, Leersum sits just 30 minutes drive from lively Utrecht. Brilliant for nature lovers and relaxed explorers, Leersum has a well-deserved reputation as a laid-back destination. Our Gurus have highlighted a spectacular stately home as their pick of the best places to stay in Leersum — an idyllic setting for a country weekend to remember.

The Utrechtse Heuvelrug National Park is dazzling. Expect to follow hiking and cycling trails through ancient forests, heathlands, fields and sand dunes, spotting flitting birds and other wildlife as you wander. Well-preserved country houses, including Kasteel Amerongen and Kasteel Groeneveld, offer an intriguing glimpse into the area’s rich heritage and are well worth exploring independently or as part of expert-led guided tours. Culture aficionados will also be delighted to discover Amerongen, with its pretty village centre and impressive castle.

The Utrecht region is, in so many ways, ideal for visitors seeking to experience rural Dutch life. Fill your bags with fresh produce at farmers’ markets, savour regional specialities at farm-to-table restaurants, or simply kick back at the best place to stay in Leersum, where gourmet fare is guaranteed. This is an excuse to slow down, and to connect with the cuisine and natural beauty of a very special part of the Netherlands.