Betuwe

The Betuwe is a geographic region in the central Netherlands, located primarily in the province of Gelderland and lying between the Rhine (Rijn) to the east and the Waal to the west. It forms a long, low-lying belt of fertile river soils that has long been used for fruit growing and market gardening. The interior landscape is flat and largely shaped by river deposits, with a network of dikes, canals, and small-scale farms. The Linge river runs through parts of the area, contributing to its irrigated and cultivated character.

Historically, the Betuwe developed as a significant agricultural region from the early modern period onward, with fruit cultivation becoming a defining economic activity. Today it is recognized as one of the Netherlands’ major fruit-producing regions, especially for apples and pears, but also for cherries, plums, and berries. In addition to orchards, greenhouse cultivation and other forms of agriculture contribute to the regional economy. The rural scenery is characterized by orchard blocks, farmsteads, and seasonal landscapes that attract visitors for cycling and agricultural tourism.

Transport and infrastructure are important aspects of the Betuwe. The region includes major transportation corridors, most notably the Betuweroute, a freight railway connecting Rotterdam with Germany, opened in 2007, which passes through the area. The Rhine and Waal rivers also support inland shipping and port connections, linking regional produce to national and international markets.

Administratively, the Betuwe is not a separate political entity but a geographic and cultural region spanning several municipalities within Gelderland (and neighboring areas).