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Lemelerberg
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Mountain
The Lemelerberg is a 78-meter-high moraine hill located in the municipality of Ommen in the province of Overijssel. It was formed during the penultimate ice age when glaciers pushed massive amounts of earth and sand into a prominent ridge. The landscape features extensive heathlands, ancient juniper bushes, and sand drifts, representing the original natural state of the eastern Netherlands. A landmark on the hill is the 'Lion of Lemele', a stone monument erected in 1913 to celebrate the centennial of Dutch independence. On clear days, the summit gives sweeping views extending to the German border and the hills of Twente. The area is managed by Landschap Overijssel, which maintains a flock of 250 Veluwe heath sheep to preserve the open heath ecosystem. Archaeological evidence indicates that the hill and its surroundings have been inhabited since the Bronze Age, marking it as a site of significant historical and natural value.
- Location: Overijssel, Netherlands
- Top sights: Voormalige scheepsreparatiewerf · Openluchttheater · Archemermaten
- Nearby: Den Ham (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 2 | 3 | 5 | 9 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 18 | 15 | 11 | 6 | 3 |
| Rain mm | 75 | 61 | 54 | 39 | 60 | 63 | 79 | 82 | 62 | 67 | 69 | 76 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The isolated hill in Overijssel is normally most conveniently reached by car or bicycle. Local access roads typically lead very close to the natural area, often situated near the small village of Lemele.
Best season
An excursion is usually particularly pleasant in August when the expansive heathlands typically bloom in a lively purple. The frosty winter days, however, generally also offer wonderful and crystal-clear views.
Terrain & paths
The terrain mostly impresses with a gentle incline, providing a highly welcome change by typical Dutch standards. The unpaved paths generally require a certain degree of surefootedness during the easy ascent.
What to bring
Sturdy footwear is normally the best decision for navigating the sometimes uneven heath trails. If you want to peacefully enjoy the view over the region, you should typically pack a small snack in your backpack.
Parking
At the foot of the hill, often near the local teahouse or restaurant, there are usually plenty of parking spaces. From there, the path to the highest point is typically well-marked and very easy to follow.
Safety
A hike up the hill is typically very safe. Visitors should generally just be considerate of the grazing flock of sheep, which is frequently used for natural landscape management across the heathlands.
Time needed
For the ascent, a short break at the top, and the subsequent descent, you should typically schedule about one and a half to three hours. The terrain generally invites visitors to linger and enjoy the views.
Geography
Facts
- Elevation of 78 meters in Ommen municipality
- Push moraine from the Saale glaciation
- Lion of Lemele monument erected in 1913
- Flock of 250 heath sheep for grazing management
- Home to rare and ancient juniper bushes
- View extends to Germany on clear days
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lemelerberg (5)
Sluis IV
Lock ruin from a bygone era.
Lemelerberg
Viewpoint on the Lemelerberg.
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Lemelerberg?
A 78-meter high moraine hill in the province of Overijssel.
Are there any viewpoints?
From the summit, you have a wide view over the landscape as far as Germany.
What can you do there?
Hiking, cycling, and visiting the flock of sheep that grazes there.
Is the Lemelerberg kid-friendly?
Yes, there is a great nature playground called 'Hol van de Leeuw'.
Are there any dining options?
The teahouse at the summit gives snacks and drinks with a beautiful view.
Lemelerberg: where is it located?
Lemelerberg is located in Overijssel, Netherlands.
Lemelerberg: what is there to see?
Highlights include Voormalige scheepsreparatiewerf, Openluchttheater, Archemermaten.
Lemelerberg: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Lemelerberg: why is it worth visiting?
The Lemelerberg is a 78-meter-high moraine hill located in the municipality of Ommen in the province of Overijssel.
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