Peulkespad and Beankepad Loop

Starting from the vicinity of the village of Wijnjewoude in Friesland, the Peulkespad and Beankepad Loop offers a gentle 6 km (about 3.7 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is easily reached by car, with parking available near the village center, or by public transport via bus connections from Drachten or Leeuwarden, stopping at Wijnjewoude’s main bus stop.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The loop meanders through the tranquil Frisian countryside, weaving between open meadows, small patches of woodland, and traditional farmland. The route is well-marked, but for added confidence, the entire trail can be followed using the HiiKER app, which provides up-to-date navigation and trail conditions.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

Early in the hike, you’ll pass through the characteristic bocage landscape—small fields bordered by hedgerows and tree lines, a hallmark of this region. At approximately 1.5 km (0.9 miles), the trail skirts the edge of the Mandefjild nature reserve, a mosaic of heathland and forest that’s home to a variety of birdlife, including woodpeckers and buzzards. Keep an eye out for Highland cattle grazing in the heath, part of local conservation efforts.

Around the halfway mark, near 3 km (1.8 miles), you’ll encounter the historic Beakens, traditional Frisian waymarkers that once guided travelers across the open landscape. These markers are a nod to the area’s centuries-old agricultural history and the importance of wayfinding in the flat, often foggy terrain.

Nature and Wildlife

The loop is especially rewarding in spring and early summer, when wildflowers bloom along the field edges and butterflies are abundant. The wetlands near the trail attract frogs and dragonflies, while the wooded sections provide habitat for roe deer and foxes, though these animals are shy and best spotted early in the morning.

Practical Considerations

The terrain is mostly flat and consists of well-maintained farm tracks and grassy paths, suitable for sturdy walking shoes but not requiring specialized gear. There are no steep sections, and the total elevation gain is negligible. Benches are placed at intervals, offering spots to rest and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

Refreshments and supplies can be found in Wijnjewoude, where a small supermarket and café are located near the bus stop. Public toilets are available at the village center. The trail is open year-round, but waterproof footwear is recommended after heavy rain, as some sections can become muddy.

For navigation, download the Peulkespad and Beankepad Loop route on HiiKER before setting out, ensuring you have offline access in areas with limited mobile signal.