26 May 2026

Bringing Your Own Horse to Caitwickerzand: From Booking Pasture to Riding the Veluwe Trail

Looking for a quiet, nature-rich base on the Veluwe where bringing your own horse is easy? At Vakantieoord Caitwickerzand you can rent pasture on site, buy hay when you arrive, and ride straight onto the adjacent 300 km Veluwe Trail. This guide walks you through how to arrange pasture, what to expect on arrival, and the best ways to explore the forest and heath routes right from the park.

Why Caitwickerzand is ideal for riders

Caitwickerzand combines a peaceful forest setting with rider-friendly facilities and direct access to renowned horse routes.

Pasture rental on site for guests who bring their own horses; hay is for sale at the park.
The Veluwe Trail (300 km) borders the park, so you can ride out directly onto a celebrated long-distance route.
Multiple riding routes in the immediate area, with forests and heathland on your doorstep.
Small, family-run character with a personal welcome and a quiet atmosphere.
Dogs are welcome, making it easier to bring your whole adventure crew.
Year-round opening and 24/7 online reservations, so you can plan your equestrian escape in any season.
For non-riding moments: bicycle rental for overnight guests (reserve at least three working days in advance, subject to availability).
A sustainability mindset (Green Key Silver) backed by practical measures such as water-saving fixtures, energy-efficient lighting with motion sensors, and environmentally friendly cleaning products.

For a quick overview of horse-specific details, see the park’s page on going on holiday with your own horse: Vakantie met paard.

How to book pasture — quick steps

Want a featured-snippet–style answer? Here are the essentials for bringing your own horse and securing pasture at Caitwickerzand:

Choose your stay: Select a camping pitch, trekkers’ hut, bungalow or group accommodation. Start here: Online booking.
Add your horse: You can bring your horse and rent pasture for overnight stays; hay is for sale on site. Include this in your reservation or contact the park to ensure availability: +31 (0)577-456295, info@caitwickerzand.nl.
Know the payment methods: Reservations are paid in advance by bank transfer. On-site purchases are by bank card or Visa only (no cash).
Check the terms: Stays follow the HISWA-RECRON General Terms and Conditions: Terms.
Plan your arrival: Download the park map under Plattegrond and review on-site guidelines (open fires are prohibited; gas barbecues are allowed, but BBQs are not available for hire).

Ride from your door: routes and highlights

The Veluwe Trail at your doorstep

The Veluwe Trail is a roughly 300 km long-distance bridle route that runs across the Veluwe. At Caitwickerzand, the Veluwe Trail borders the park directly, so you can mount up and ride out without a trailer shuttle. Expect tranquil forest tracks and sweeping heathland with plenty of variety for multi-day or loop rides.

Tip: Many riders prefer early morning or late afternoon for quieter trails and comfortable temperatures. Plan your loops so that you and your horse have regular breaks for water and rest.

Forest and heath loops right outside the park

Caitwickerzand sits on the edge of one of Staatsbosbeheer’s most beautiful nature areas. Numerous trails start right outside the park, and the immediate environment features several extensive horse routes. The nearby Kootwijkerzand sand drift area delivers that classic Veluwe atmosphere just a short ride away.

Day trips within driving distance

Fancy a change of scenery? National Park De Hoge Veluwe is within driving distance. As with most protected landscapes, you can expect designated bridle paths and local access rules for riders. Always check current regulations and any entry requirements directly with the destination before you go.

Stay options when you bring your horse

Whether you travel with a trailer and tent, prefer a cabin, or want a fully equipped bungalow, Caitwickerzand offers flexible bases for rider-and-horse getaways.

Camping: simple, spacious, and practical

16 Ampere electricity
Water and sewer drain at the pitch
Modern sanitary facilities
Pets allowed

Wake up to birdsong and the rustle of the forest. Explore camping details here: Kamperen.

Trekkers’ huts (Hikers’ Cabins)

Choose the level of comfort that suits your trip:

Trekkershut Standard (sleeps up to four): Includes a small gas stove for simple cooking and an outdoor picnic table. Learn more: Trekkershut standaard.
Trekkershut Comfort (sleeps up to five): Offers box-spring beds, a forest view, and a private terrace with a lounge set.
Trekkershut Comfort + (4 persons): Very suitable for guests with reduced mobility, featuring an adapted shower and forest view. Details: Trekkershut Comfort +.

Connectivity matters on longer trips: both the bungalows and Comfort Trekkers’ Huts have a fibre-optic connection for fast internet access.

Bungalows with forest views

Caitwickerzand offers two four-person bungalows with direct forest views. Inside, you’ll find:

Two bedrooms (one with a double bed; one with two single beds placed in a corner)
A bathroom
A living area with television and comfortable seating
A kitchen with dishwasher, oven/microwave, and a dining table

Group accommodation

Travelling with a riding club or larger party? A group accommodation is available at the park alongside bungalows, cabins and camping pitches.

Practical tips for bringing your own horse

These widely accepted best practices help make your Veluwe ride smoother and safer.

Before you travel

Conditioning: Build up your horse’s fitness for longer forest and heath rides.
Hoof care: Consider appropriate hoof protection for mixed surfaces; sandy stretches can be demanding over time.
Hydration and forage: Plan for regular water breaks and consistent access to roughage. At Caitwickerzand, hay is for sale if you want to top up on arrival.
Identification and routine care: Keep your horse’s ID and routine health care up to date before traveling.

On the trail

Pace and footing: Adjust pace to terrain; give your horse time to settle on sandy or uneven paths.
Heat and timing: Aim for cooler parts of the day in summer; allow for shade and rest stops.
Trail etiquette: Share paths courteously, announce overtakes, and leave no trace.

Around the park

Reserve bikes for non-riding days: Geared bikes and e-bikes can be reserved via the park at least three working days in advance (for overnight guests, subject to availability).
Arrival comforts: You can pre-order a grocery package so food is ready in your accommodation before check-in.
Dining together: For groups, buffets or barbecues can be organised on request.
Fire safety: Open fires are prohibited. Gas barbecues are allowed, but BBQs are not available for hire.
Payments: On site, pay by bank card or Visa (no cash). Reservations are paid by bank transfer in advance.

Quick FAQs for riders

Can I bring my horse to Caitwickerzand? Yes. Guests can bring their horses and use the on-site pasture for overnight stays.
Can I buy hay on site? Yes. Hay is for sale at Caitwickerzand.
Is the Veluwe Trail accessible from the park? Yes. The 300 km Veluwe Trail borders the park directly.
Are dogs welcome? Yes. Dogs are welcome at Caitwickerzand.
When is the park open? All year. You can book online 24/7, 365 days a year.
Is there fast internet? Yes. Bungalows and Comfort Trekkers’ Huts have fibre-optic internet.

Conclusion

With pasture rental, hay for sale on site, and the Veluwe Trail right next to the park, bringing your own horse to Caitwickerzand couldn’t be simpler. Add the quiet forest setting, rider-friendly facilities and flexible accommodation, and you have everything you need for an unforgettable equestrian break.

Ready to ride? Book your stay and request pasture today: Online booking. Prefer to talk first? Call +31 (0)577-456295 or email info@caitwickerzand.nl.