Over the years, I have gained more appreciation for the natural areas the Netherlands has to offer. During the pandemic, I took the opportunity to explore my home country and have ‘discovered’ some great places. Here you can find four delightful and diverse natural areas in the Netherlands perfect for one of more day-hikes.
Below you can find some suggestions for specific hikes as well. In general, trails in the Netherlands are very well marked. There are usually maps at the entrance of natural areas as well, showing trails and which coloured pole to follow.
De Posbank is located in the east of the Netherlands and can easily be reached by public transport. Just navigate to the small town of Rheden and go from there! A popular short hike that shows you some of the best views is this one!
By far my favorite spot in the Netherlands is ‘de Posbank’. With its rolling moorland and stunning vistas, it has always been my go-to hiking spot. It has pine and leafy forests, heath and grasslands. It just never disappoints. There’s an abundance of wildlife to be found as well. From red deers and highland cattle, to smooth snakes and sand lizards, and even wolves are spotted there. Every season offers something different, and it can even give you a little challenge with the elevation.
Leersumse Veld
For a more swampy experience, the lovely ‘Leersumse veld’ is the way to go. It contains several natural fens, making it an interesting walk. It might not be a big area, but it’s definitely worth a visit. Throughout the seasons there are many birds that stay, or come and go. You can find interesting species such as the great grey shrike, raven, black woodpecker, european honey buzzard, osprey, and many more. Every time of year will be a bit different!
There are two main routes within Leersumse veld, of which the longest is about 7 km. You can reach this area by travelling to Leersum. It is possible to reach by public transport, but by car it is faster. More information and the routes here!
Gulpdal
When you travel to the south of the Netherlands, the landscape changes shape. It becomes significantly more hilly, which is very un-Dutch. In the province of Limburg, there are many beautiful hikes, especially near the southern border with Belgium. My favorite one so far is in the Gulpdal, or Gulp valley. A beautiful valley with a meandering little river that you follow. There are meadows with flowers in spring and beautiful forest colours in autumn. The south of Limburg is famous for its many orchids that can be found blooming in spring, such as the beautiful man orchid.
There’s lots of hikes in the Gulp valley (ánd the Geul valley, a bit more east), from short family friendly strolls, to longer ones with a relatively high elevation. A great option that even takes you through Belgium is this one!
Kennemerduinen
If you are staying in Amsterdam during your visit to the Netherlands, this amazing day-hike is a must! The beautiful sand dunes in National park Zuid-Kennemerland show the coastal side of the Netherlands and can be combined with a visit to the beach. During the autumn and winter months, you can try spotting the European bison (Wisent), a species that has been reintroduced in 2016. There is even a website that can help you track the bison in the park. The other half of the year, that specific trail is closed due to bird breeding season.
This beautiful nature reserve can be reached easily by public transport and by car. Navigate to train station Overveen or Bloemendaal aan Zee to get there. Check out this flyer including a map for more info!
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