De Ravijntjes and Noorderbosch via Overijssels Havezatenpad and Akkerdijk

Starting out near the picturesque village of Diepenheim, this 15 km (about 9.3 miles) loop hike offers a gentle, flat walk through the heart of Overijssel’s rural and wooded landscapes, with virtually no elevation gain. The trail weaves together sections of the Overijssels Havezatenpad and Akkerdijk, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities and ideal for those seeking a relaxed day outdoors.

Getting There Diepenheim is well-connected by public transport. From Deventer or Hengelo, take the train to Goor, then transfer to a local bus (such as line 95) that stops in Diepenheim. If arriving by car, parking is available near the center of Diepenheim, close to the start of the trail at the historic Diepenheim Castle (Kasteel Diepenheim), a recognizable landmark and a convenient meeting point.

Woodlands, Ravines, and Historic Estates The route quickly immerses you in the serene Noorderbosch, a mixed woodland known for its tranquil atmosphere and diverse birdlife. Early in the walk, you’ll pass through De Ravijntjes, a series of small, ancient ravines carved by glacial meltwater. These shaded gullies are home to mosses, ferns, and the occasional roe deer, and are especially atmospheric in the early morning mist.

Continuing along the Overijssels Havezatenpad, the trail skirts the edges of several historic estates, or “havezaten,” which are manor houses unique to this region. Many of these estates date back to the 17th and 18th centuries and are surrounded by landscaped gardens, old oak avenues, and ornamental ponds. The Akkerdijk section leads you through open farmland, where you’ll see traditional Dutch hedgerows and, in spring and summer, fields of wildflowers and grazing sheep.

Points of Interest and Navigation At approximately 6 km (3.7 miles), you’ll reach the edge of the Noorderbosch, where a small wooden footbridge crosses a stream—an excellent spot for a rest and a picnic. The halfway point brings you near the estate of Huis te Diepenheim, another historic manor with beautifully maintained grounds. Keep an eye out for storks nesting on the estate’s chimneys and buzzards circling overhead.

The trail is well-marked, but for added confidence and route planning, use HiiKER for up-to-date navigation, trail conditions, and waypoints. The app provides detailed maps and offline access, which is useful as mobile signal can be patchy in the denser woodland sections.

Flora, Fauna, and Seasonal Highlights Throughout the year, the area is alive with wildlife. In spring, wood anemones and bluebells carpet the forest floor, while autumn brings a spectacular display of fungi and changing leaf colors. Birdwatchers should bring binoculars—woodpeckers, nuthatches, and tawny owls are commonly seen or heard along the route.

Practical Tips The trail is mostly on well-maintained dirt paths and quiet country lanes, suitable for sturdy walking shoes or lightweight boots. There are several benches and picnic spots along the way, but no shops or cafes directly on the route, so bring enough water and snacks. Public toilets are available in Diepenheim at the start and end of the hike.

This easy, scenic loop is perfect for a leisurely day out, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural history, and peaceful countryside.