De Nes and Polder Voorburg Loop

Starting from the charming village of Nes on Ameland, this loop trail covers approximately 11 km (about 6.8 miles) with virtually no elevation gain, making it an ideal route for those seeking a leisurely walk through the unique landscapes of the Dutch Wadden Islands. The trailhead is easily accessible from the center of Nes, close to the ferry terminal, which connects Ameland to the mainland via Holwerd. Public buses run from the ferry terminal to Nes, and parking is available near the village center for those arriving by car.

Navigating the Route

The De Nes and Polder Voorburg Loop is well-marked and can be easily followed using the HiiKER app, which provides up-to-date navigation and trail information. The flat terrain ensures that the route is suitable for all fitness levels, including families and casual walkers.

Landscapes and Nature

The loop takes you through a mosaic of polder landscapes, salt marshes, and coastal meadows that are characteristic of Ameland. Early in the walk, you’ll pass through the historic heart of Nes, where traditional Frisian architecture and centuries-old buildings set a picturesque tone. As you leave the village, the trail leads into the open polder of Voorburg, a reclaimed area protected by dikes and home to grazing sheep and cattle.

Birdwatchers will find this route especially rewarding, as the wetlands and meadows attract a variety of waders, geese, and migratory birds. In spring and autumn, the area becomes a staging ground for thousands of birds, making binoculars a recommended addition to your pack.

Points of Interest

- Nes Village: The starting point features a blend of quaint shops, cafes, and the 15th-century St. Clemens Church, notable for its striking tower and peaceful churchyard. - Polder Voorburg: Around the 4 km (2.5 mile) mark, the trail enters the heart of the polder, where you can observe the intricate network of drainage ditches and canals that have shaped the landscape since the 19th century. - Dike Views: At roughly 7 km (4.3 miles), the route follows the top of a dike, offering expansive views over the Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site. On clear days, you can spot seals basking on distant sandbanks. - Salt Marshes: The final section of the loop skirts the edge of salt marshes, where wildflowers bloom in summer and the air is filled with the calls of curlews and redshanks.

Historical Significance

Ameland’s polders are a testament to Dutch ingenuity in water management. The Voorburg polder, established in the 19th century, reflects centuries of effort to reclaim land from the sea and protect the island’s agricultural heritage. The dikes and drainage systems you’ll see along the way are living history, still serving their original purpose.

Getting There

To reach Nes, take the ferry from Holwerd on the mainland, which operates several times daily. From the Ameland ferry terminal, local buses and taxis provide quick access to the village center. If driving, parking is available near the main square in Nes, just a short walk from the trailhead.

For navigation and up-to-date trail conditions, use the HiiKER app, which covers the entire loop and highlights key waypoints and points of interest along the route.