An Ancient Spectacle: The Deer Rut on the Veluwe
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Summer has ended. The evenings are getting cooler and the first autumn colours are appearing in the Veluwe's forests. It's the perfect time to recharge in the tranquility of our boutique cottages. But in this season of peace and serenity, an ancient and wild spectacle is also taking place: the deer rut, a guttoral roaring of the deer, an impressive phenomenon you can only experience in the wild.
What Exactly is 'Roaring' (Burlen)?
If you are in the woods around Vierhouten and the Dennenholt Estate at this time of year, there is a good chance you will hear a deep, powerful sound that breaks the silence. This sound is the 'roaring' (burlen), the mating call of male red deer. It is a battle cry with which the stags show their dominance to rivals and, at the same time, try to entice the females, the 'hinds'. Roaring is an essential part of the deer rut and can sometimes be heard from miles away.
For a good impression of what roaring deer sound like, check out this video: Edelherten burlen er op los!.
An Incredible Nature Experience From Your Terrace
The Veluwe is one of the few places in the Netherlands where you can witness this natural spectacle up close. Our cottages are so conveniently located, right on the edge of vast nature reserves, that with a little luck, you can hear the roaring from your own terrace. Imagine: a glass of wine in your hand, a blanket over you, and the impressive sound of roaring deer in the distance. It is a unique, luxurious nature experience, especially for those who seek a connection with nature without compromising on comfort.
Where and When Do You Have the Best Chance?
The deer rut takes place from mid-September to early October. At dusk, and especially at night, the deer are most active. The forest areas around Vierhouten and Dennenholt, where the cottages are located, are the perfect spots. The sound of nature comes to you.
A successful ‘concert’ is, of course, never guaranteed—nature cannot be controlled. But the chance of witnessing this magical moment is significant here.
Our boutique cottages offer the perfect base to explore the Veluwe and escape the daily hustle and bustle. The deer rut is a bonus that makes the experience unforgettable. Come recharge and listen to the call of the wild, all while enjoying the luxury you've come to expect from us.
