De Bannink and Klein Kiekenbelt Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Deventer, the De Bannink and Klein Kiekenbelt Loop offers a gentle 9 km (about 5.6 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near Landgoed De Bannink, a historic estate just southeast of Deventer, which can be reached by taking a local bus from Deventer’s central station to the Banninkweg stop, or by car with parking available at the estate’s entrance.

Getting Oriented and Navigation

The loop is well-marked, but for added confidence, use HiiKER to track your progress and ensure you stay on course, especially at junctions where smaller paths branch off through the woods and meadows.

Landscapes and Nature

The route meanders through a patchwork of lush meadows, ancient woodland, and the serene farmlands typical of Overijssel. Early in the hike, you’ll pass through the grounds of Landgoed De Bannink, where stately trees and manicured gardens hint at the estate’s 17th-century origins. Keep an eye out for the manor house, a fine example of Dutch country architecture, and the old farm buildings that dot the landscape.

As you continue, the trail skirts the edges of Klein Kiekenbelt, a small but ecologically rich nature reserve. Here, the terrain shifts to slightly wilder woodland, with oak and beech trees providing habitat for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and the occasional roe deer. In spring and early summer, wildflowers carpet the forest floor, attracting butterflies and bees.

Points of Interest and Wildlife

About halfway through the loop, you’ll cross a small stream bordered by willow and alder, a favorite haunt for kingfishers and herons. Pause here for a quiet moment—this is one of the most tranquil spots on the route. Further along, open fields provide sweeping views back toward Deventer and, on clear days, you might spot buzzards circling overhead.

Historical Significance

The region around De Bannink has a long agricultural history, with evidence of farming dating back to medieval times. The estate itself played a role in local land management and water control, as seen in the network of ditches and small canals that crisscross the area. Interpretive signs along the route provide insight into the area’s past, including the story of the Bannink family and their influence on the landscape.

Trail Conditions and Preparation

With a total elevation gain of less than 5 metres (16 feet), the path is mostly flat and follows a mix of gravel farm tracks, woodland paths, and quiet country lanes. After rain, some sections can be muddy, so waterproof footwear is recommended. There are no steep climbs or technical sections, making this loop ideal for families, casual walkers, and anyone seeking a peaceful countryside escape.

Facilities are limited along the route, so bring water and snacks. The nearest cafés and shops are in Deventer, a short drive or bus ride away. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a leash, especially near livestock and in nature reserves.

For navigation, download the route on HiiKER before setting out, as mobile signal can be patchy in the more wooded sections.