Around the corner: Lichtenvoorde

Enjoyed relaxing during your stay at Hofparken and curious what there is to do in the area? In this series, we highlight nice towns and villages that are just around the corner, both on and across the border.

These are villages and towns you may have never heard of, but definitely deserve your attention.

These villages and towns host fantastic activities. Below we would like to tell you more about the village: Lichtenvoorde. Read on quickly below.

The village Lichtenvoorde

The small village of Lichtenvoorde, with just under 13,000 inhabitants, is located in the municipality of Oost Gelre in Gelderland's Achterhoek region.

From Hofparken, it is only a short 20 minute drive to the bustling village center. The village is known for its hospitality and fun events.

The village may not ring a bell with everyone, but the event that takes place there every year certainly does: the Zwarte Cross (more about that later).

Special gems

This village has a rich history, just like many other Achterhoek villages, such as: Aalten.

Stroll through this picturesque village at your own pace and you're bound to spot some historical gems. How about:

1. St. John's Church (the leaning church tower);
2. The Farrier;
3. The Richtershuis; originally an old prison and courthouse in the 18th century.

Fashion, events & food

In Lichtenvoorde you can go downtown and we recommend you do so. In fact, various fun events, parties, and festivals take place in the center throughout the year.

Chances are that when you go there, there will be something fun to do. Every visit is different.

In the center, you will come across great places to eat and surprising small and large fashion stores. The place is bustling with local creative entrepreneurs.

In short: take your time for this colorful village.

Excellent places to eat

As mentioned earlier, Lichtenvoorde is a colorful village and this shows. Choose from a variety of cozy, picturesque, and unique places to eat.

Eat out in a luxury restaurant with perfectly laid tables, a 17th-century farmhouse, or take a seat in a warehouse. The choice is yours.

There are exceptional restaurants, cafes, and lunchrooms both inside and outside the center. Diversity and enjoyment are key here.

Some tips:

1. chterhoek Steakhouse 'Beef n Bone';
2. Markt 5;
3. Restaurant Kruidt;
4. Skik en Zo;
5. Brul.

Popular events

Fancy a party, fun, and music? Lichtenvoorde organizes many fun events, such as the Summer Market (1st week of July).

This celebration has been the kickoff of the summer vacation for more than 40 years. More than 20,000 people visit this event every year. The biggest event in the municipality of Oost Gelre after the Zwarte Cross. Here you will find a huge fair, fashion (with summer trends), theater, rides and lots of (live) music. A great event for young and old.

The most visited festival in the region takes place near Lichtenvoorde, the Zwarte Cross. This festival is the largest motocross event in the world. This is where races are ridden, theater is performed, music is played and workshops are given. All this on more than 30 different stages.

Other popular festivals include:

1. Bikers Festival;
2. Keifestival;
3. Proef Lichtenvoorde;
4. Over the Top.

One with nature

The surroundings of Hofparken Wiltershaar invite you to be active and so does Lichtenvoorde. Hiking, cycling, running, and scootering: it's all possible in and around this town.

The municipality of Oost Gelre is ideal for hiking and cycling. The landscape is characterized by rural roads, cycling and hiking trails, lots, streams, and beautiful church paths.

Looking for a bicycle route of just under 2 hours? If so, go on a local tour of Lichtenvoorde.

A nice starting or resting point is Theetuin De Vlinder. Here you can get more information about the area, relax and enjoy something tasty.

Flower parade Lichtenvoorde

Have you always wanted to visit a flower parade? And are you booking a home with a sauna or another Amalia-type at Hofparken Wiltershaar in early September? At the beginning of September, the annual flower parade takes place in Lichtenvoorde. This is the second largest one in the world.

In short, a flower parade is a procession of floats decorated and covered with the most magnificent combinations of flowers. A great parade to visit with your children.

The parade of Lichtenvoorde is accompanied by brass bands. Relax and watch the flower parade from a distance from a seat on one of the many grandstands that will be set up.

Keep an eye on the flower parade Lichtenvoorde website for the exact date and more information.

In short: take your time for this colorful village.