The park's unique 'hill' landscape was created by massive ice sheets during the penultimate glacial period, which pushed glacial till into ridges.
It is the only place in the Netherlands where the black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) maintains a protected wild population.
The soil composition is primarily nutrient-poor sand and gravel, which is essential for sustaining the dominant heather vegetation.
The park contains the memory forest 'Wilhelminabos', where trees are planted to commemorate deceased loved ones.
During the Second World War, the area was a significant strategic point, and multiple Allied aircraft crash sites are located within the park boundaries.
The ridges are part of a larger moraine system that extends from the eastern Netherlands into Germany.
Sallandse Heuvelrug is one of the largest continuous dry heathlands in the Netherlands, characterized by its rolling moraine landscape formed during the Saalian glaciation. The park features a dramatic elevation change, rising up to 75 meters above sea level at the Holterberg and Noetselerberg peaks. It serves as a critical habitat for the last remaining wild population of black grouse in the country. The area covers approximately 35 square kilometers, spanning heath, deciduous forests, and coniferous woodlands. Visitors can access an extensive network of over 300 kilometers of marked trails for hiking, cycling, and equestrian use. It is a designated National Park, protected for its unique geological history and ecological biodiversity.
The viewpoint at the top of the Holterberg provides an expansive panoramic view over the heathland.
Bring binoculars as the open heathland provides excellent visibility for spotting birds of prey and deer.
Use the dedicated mountain bike trails rather than pedestrian paths to avoid trail erosion and safely navigate the steep sandy slopes.
Check for ticks after your visit, especially during the warmer months, as the heathland and tall grasses are common habitats for them.
Venturing off-trail during the spring nesting season or entering areas marked as 'rustgebied' (rest areas) for wildlife.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times to protect ground-nesting birds; stay on marked paths to prevent damage to fragile heath vegetation.
