Wierdensche Veld via Overijssels Havezatenpad and Hulsen - Paarse Route

Starting from the outskirts of Wierden, the trailhead for this 6 km (about 3.7 miles) loop is easily accessed near the Wierdense Veld nature reserve, a short drive from the center of Wierden or a brief cycle from Wierden train station. For those arriving by public transport, take the train to Wierden and either walk or cycle the remaining 2.5 km (1.5 miles) to the reserve’s main entrance on Vriezenveenseweg, where limited parking is also available for those coming by car.

Navigating the Route

The route follows a combination of the Overijssels Havezatenpad and the Hulsen - Paarse Route, both well-marked and maintained. For precise navigation and up-to-date trail conditions, use HiiKER, which provides detailed maps and waypoints. The terrain is flat, with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities and suitable for families.

Nature and Wildlife

Wierdense Veld is a mosaic of heathland, peat bogs, and scattered woodland. Early in the hike, you’ll pass through open heath, especially vibrant in late summer when the heather blooms purple. The area is a haven for birdlife—look for skylarks, curlews, and the occasional hen harrier gliding low over the moor. The peat bogs, remnants of a once-vast raised bog landscape, are home to rare plants like sundew and cotton grass. In wetter months, expect some muddy patches, so waterproof footwear is recommended.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

At roughly 2 km (1.2 miles) in, you’ll encounter the Hulsen sheepfold, a traditional structure still used for grazing flocks that help maintain the heathland. Interpretive signs explain the role of sheep in the local ecosystem. Continuing along the Havezatenpad, the trail skirts the edge of small wooded areas and open fields, offering views across the reserve’s wide, flat expanse.

Historical Significance

The Overijssels Havezatenpad traces part of the historic routes connecting the region’s “havezaten”—manor houses that were once the seats of local nobility. While no manor houses are directly on this short loop, the path’s history is reflected in the landscape, shaped by centuries of peat cutting, grazing, and land reclamation. The Wierdense Veld itself is a rare survivor of the extensive bogs that once covered much of Overijssel, now protected as a Natura 2000 site.

Trail End and Facilities

The loop returns to the starting point near the main entrance. Basic facilities, including a small picnic area and information boards, are available at the trailhead. There are no cafés or shops within the reserve, so bring water and snacks. The nearest amenities are in Wierden, a short drive or cycle away.