Reggepad and Overijssels Havezatenpad Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Hellendoorn, this 9 km (about 5.6 miles) loop offers a gentle, flat walk through the heart of Overijssel’s lush countryside, with virtually no elevation gain—perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic day out. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Hellendoorn railway station, making it accessible by both public transport and car. If arriving by train, simply exit at Hellendoorn station and follow local signage toward the Regge river; for drivers, parking is available near the station and at several small lots along the Regge.

Navigating the Route

The loop combines two celebrated Dutch trails: the Reggepad, which traces the meandering Regge river, and the Overijssels Havezatenpad, a long-distance path connecting historic estates. For seamless navigation, use the HiiKER app, which provides up-to-date maps and waypoints for both trails.

Highlights Along the Regge

The first section follows the Regge river, a slow-moving waterway bordered by reed beds and wildflower meadows. Expect to see herons, kingfishers, and—if you’re lucky—roe deer grazing at dawn or dusk. The riverbanks are dotted with traditional Dutch windmills and small wooden bridges, offering plenty of photo opportunities. At around 2 km (1.2 miles), you’ll pass the Eerder Achterbroek, a patchwork of ancient farmland and hedgerows, where you might spot grazing sheep and the occasional stork.

Historic Estates and Woodlands

Midway through the loop, the trail merges with the Overijssels Havezatenpad, leading you past several historic estates known as “havezaten.” These manor houses, once home to the region’s nobility, are surrounded by landscaped gardens and centuries-old oak trees. The most notable is Huis Eerde, a stately 18th-century manor now serving as an international school. The grounds are open to walkers, and the formal gardens are especially beautiful in spring and early summer.

Nature and Wildlife

The woodlands here are a mix of beech, oak, and pine, providing habitat for woodpeckers, red squirrels, and a variety of songbirds. In late spring, the forest floor is carpeted with wild garlic and bluebells. The trail is well-marked and mostly follows wide, level paths, making it suitable for families and less experienced hikers.

Practical Tips

There are several benches and picnic spots along the route, particularly near the river and at the edge of the estates. Public toilets can be found at the Hellendoorn station and at the visitor center near Huis Eerde. The entire loop is well-maintained and can be walked year-round, though waterproof footwear is recommended after heavy rain due to occasional muddy patches near the river.

For those interested in local history, information boards along the route provide details about the region’s feudal past and the role of the havezaten in Dutch society. The area is also known for its traditional bakeries and farm shops, so consider stopping for a local treat before or after your walk.

To plan your hike and ensure you stay on track, download the route on HiiKER, which offers offline maps and real-time trail updates.