Ginkelse Heide
Historic heathland, pivotal WWII drop zone, and site of annual airborne commemoration with parachute drops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the epic parachute drop
Ginkelse Heide
Best Time
Witness the epic parachute drop
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic heathland, pivotal WWII drop zone, and site of annual airborne commemoration with parachute drops.
"A beautiful and deeply moving place, rich with WWII history and spectacular parachute drops."
🎯 Commemoration Day Crowds
Expect large crowds during the Market Garden commemoration. Arrive early for the best viewing spots!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The heathland is vast. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the natural landscape.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Operation Market Garden Commemoration
Ginkelse Heide
Witness a spectacular mass parachute drop, honoring WWII paratroopers. A truly moving historical reenactment.
Heathland Nature Walks
Ginkelse Heide
Explore the vast, picturesque heathland. Perfect for peaceful walks and enjoying the natural beauty.
WWII Memorials and Monuments
Ginkelse Heide
Pay respects at poignant memorials honoring the paratroopers who landed here during WWII.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Airborne History
Respectful Exploration of a Historic Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Commemoration Day Crowds
Expect large crowds during the Market Garden commemoration. Arrive early for the best viewing spots!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The heathland is vast. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the natural landscape.
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to document the historical reenactments and the beautiful heathland.
🙏 Respectful Visitor
Remember this is a solemn memorial site. Be respectful of the history and memorials.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Commemoration Day Crowds
Expect large crowds during the Market Garden commemoration. Arrive early for the best viewing spots!
👟 Comfortable Walking Shoes
The heathland is vast. Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the natural landscape.
📸 Capture the History
Bring your camera to document the historical reenactments and the beautiful heathland.
🙏 Respectful Visitor
Remember this is a solemn memorial site. Be respectful of the history and memorials.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Ginkelse Heide to be a beautiful and deeply moving place, rich with WWII history. The annual commemoration, featuring parachute drops, is a highlight, offering a powerful connection to the past. While the natural beauty of the heathland is appreciated, the historical significance and the respect for fallen soldiers are consistently praised.
"It’s a beautiful place, emotional too with its history during WWII, when the 4th Parachute Brigade landed there. May their names liveth for evermore! Never to be forgotten!! Lest we forget!!! 🙏"
J J
"We went to Ginkel for the 80th Anniversary Op Market Garden as my father was a Para and parachuted in at Ginkel. The display was awesome and the work that went into it must have been astounding. Thank you to all the Dutch people for remembering and your hospitality during our visit"
Ady Davies
"Thursday August 14, 2025"
Marjolein
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ginkelse Heide is accessible by car, with parking available during events. Public transport options include taking a train to Ede-Wageningen station and then a bus or taxi to the Heide.
Yes, it's a well-known area. Use GPS navigation to 'Ginkelse Heide, Ede' for direct access.
Absolutely! There are cycling paths leading to the area, making it a great option for cyclists.
During the annual commemoration, dedicated parking areas are set up. Be prepared for potential traffic and follow signage.
The main paths are generally accessible, but some areas might be uneven. Check event-specific information for accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Ginkelse Heide itself is free. However, specific events like the Market Garden commemoration might have associated costs for certain viewing areas or activities.
Ginkelse Heide is an open natural area and is accessible at all times. However, visitor centers or specific event areas will have their own operating hours.
The main parachute drop for the Operation Market Garden commemoration typically happens in September. Check local event schedules for exact dates and times.
While not always formally advertised, local historical societies or event organizers may offer guided tours, especially during commemoration periods.
Dogs are generally welcome in the natural areas, but they must be kept on a leash, especially during busy events or near wildlife.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy peaceful walks, birdwatching, and photography in the beautiful heathland. It's a great spot for nature lovers.
During major events, temporary facilities are usually available. For regular visits, amenities might be limited, so plan accordingly.
You might spot various bird species, insects, and if you're lucky, some small mammals. The heathland ecosystem is rich.
Absolutely! The vast landscapes, especially during sunset or with blooming heather, offer stunning photographic opportunities.
For a nature walk, 2-3 hours is usually sufficient. If attending the commemoration, plan for a full day.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) offers beautiful light for landscape photography. During the commemoration, action shots of the paratroopers are popular.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive heathland. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant paratrooper shots during events.
The open heathland itself provides panoramic views. Look for the memorials for poignant historical shots.
Drone usage may be restricted, especially during military events. Always check local regulations and obtain necessary permissions before flying.
The blooming heather in late summer, the vast open landscapes, and the historical reenactments during the commemoration are prime subjects.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more relaxed family outing, the heathland itself is a great place for exploration. Pack a picnic and let kids run around in the open spaces. Look for mushrooms in autumn or enjoy the blooming heather in late summer. Ensure children understand the significance of the memorials and encourage respectful behavior when visiting these historical markers.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take time to explore the various memorials and monuments scattered across the heathland. These sites offer poignant reflections on the sacrifices made by the paratroopers. Consider researching the specific units that landed here, such as the 4th Parachute Brigade, to deepen your understanding of the events that unfolded on this ground.
🚶 Nature Enthusiasts
While the historical significance is undeniable, the natural beauty of Ginkelse Heide provides a peaceful retreat. It’s an ideal location for mindful walks, birdwatching, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the Dutch countryside. The changing seasons bring different colors and moods to the landscape, making it a rewarding destination year-round.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Significance of Ginkelse Heide
Today, Ginkelse Heide is not just a place of natural beauty but also a significant historical landmark. The annual commemoration of Operation Market Garden, held in September, draws large crowds, including veterans, military personnel, and history enthusiasts. The highlight of this event is a mass parachute drop, recreating the airborne landings of 1944. This powerful reenactment offers a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to feel the weight of history and honor the bravery of those who fought there.
+1Beyond the commemoration, the heathland offers a tranquil escape. Its vast, open spaces are ideal for nature walks, photography, and quiet contemplation. The landscape itself, with its characteristic heather, changes beautifully with the seasons, offering a different perspective throughout the year. It’s a place where natural beauty and profound historical significance converge, making it a unique destination for both reflection and exploration.
Experiencing the Annual Commemoration
+1Attending the commemoration requires some planning. It's advisable to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, as the area can become very crowded. Be prepared for a significant number of spectators, and consider bringing comfortable seating or a blanket if you plan to stay for an extended period. The atmosphere is often a mix of solemn remembrance and patriotic pride, with many attendees wearing historical or military-themed attire.
Beyond the parachute drop, the commemoration often includes static displays of military vehicles, historical reenactments, and opportunities to meet veterans. It's a chance to learn more about the history of Operation Market Garden and the bravery of the paratroopers. Remember to treat the site with respect, as it is a place of remembrance for fallen soldiers.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit