De Harr, Veenhuis and Borkense Loop

The De Harr, Veenhuis, and Borkense Loop is a scenic 12-kilometer (7.5-mile) trail located near Winterswijk in the Gelderland province of the Netherlands. This easy, flat loop offers hikers a journey through diverse landscapes, including heathlands, forests, and historical sites, with virtually no elevation gain.

Trailhead and Access

The trail begins near the Veenweg in Kotten, a hamlet close to Winterswijk. For those traveling by car, parking is available along Veenweg. Public transportation options are limited; however, buses from Winterswijk serve nearby areas. It's advisable to check the latest schedules and plan accordingly.

Trail Highlights

- Borkense Baan: This section features a former railway line that has been transformed into a nature reserve. The area is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including 25 species of day butterflies, making it one of the most butterfly-rich regions in the Netherlands. The old railway embankment provides a unique habitat for various flora and fauna. ([glk.nl](https://www.glk.nl/gebied/borkense-baan-en-veenhuis?utm_source=openai))

- Veenhuis: This part of the trail showcases a mosaic of small forests, coppices, natural grasslands, and patches of heath. Historically, it was part of a vast heathland that was partially reclaimed around 1900 and planted with Scots pine. Today, it has evolved into a semi-natural landscape offering a glimpse into the region's past land use. ([glk.nl](https://www.glk.nl/gebied/borkense-baan-en-veenhuis?utm_source=openai))

Flora and Fauna

The trail traverses areas rich in biodiversity. In the Borkense Baan, the nutrient-poor soil supports unique plant species, and the presence of water bodies attracts numerous dragonfly species, which in turn are preyed upon by breeding Eurasian hobbies and red-backed shrikes. Reptiles, such as the sand lizard, find refuge on the railway embankment, where stones and sandy beds have been placed to facilitate their basking and egg-laying activities. ([glk.nl](https://www.glk.nl/gebied/borkense-baan-en-veenhuis?utm_source=openai))

Historical Significance

- Sikkings Landwehr: Perpendicular to the Borkense Baan lies a 'landwehr,' a double sand embankment known as Sikkings Landwehr. Believed to be a field fortification from the Eighty Years' War, it serves as a testament to the region's tumultuous past. ([glk.nl](https://www.glk.nl/gebied/borkense-baan-en-veenhuis?utm_source=openai))

- Former Railway Line: The single-track railway between Winterswijk and the German town of Borken was constructed between 1870 and 1880, serving as a goods connection between the ports of Groningen and Friesland and the German industrial areas. After 1960, its use declined, and the line was decommissioned in 1975. The remaining sleepers and rails stand as a cultural-historical reminder of the area's industrial heritage. ([glk.nl](https://www.glk.nl/gebied/borkense-baan-en-veenhuis?utm_source=openai))

Preparation Tips

- Navigation: Utilize the HiiKER app to access detailed maps and trail information, ensuring a well-prepared hike.

- Seasonal Considerations: The trail is accessible year-round, but certain sections may become muddy during wet seasons. Wearing appropriate footwear is recommended.

- Wildlife Observation: Bring binoculars to enhance your experience of the diverse birdlife and other wildlife along the trail.

Embarking on the De Harr, Veenhuis, and Borkense Loop offers a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue, making it a rewarding experience for hikers of all levels.