Kemphaanpad, Vier Bruggenpad and Michauzpad Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Almere, the Kemphaanpad, Vier Bruggenpad, and Michauzpad Loop offers a gentle 6 km (about 3.7 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities, families, and those seeking a relaxed walk through Flevoland’s unique landscape. The trailhead is conveniently located near Stadslandgoed De Kemphaan, a well-known city estate and nature center, easily reached by car with ample parking or by taking bus lines from Almere Centrum station directly to the Kemphaan bus stop.

Getting Oriented and Navigation

For navigation, HiiKER provides detailed mapping and route guidance, ensuring you stay on track as the paths wind through a mosaic of woodlands, wetlands, and open meadows. The loop is well-marked, but using HiiKER will help you spot side trails and points of interest.

Highlights Along the Route

Stadslandgoed De Kemphaan The hike begins at De Kemphaan, a vibrant hub for nature lovers. Here, you’ll find the AAP Foundation, a sanctuary for rescued exotic animals, and the Almere Jungle, a small zoo and botanical garden. The area is rich in educational displays about local flora and fauna, making it a great spot for families to explore before or after the hike.

Vier Bruggenpad (Four Bridges Path) Shortly after setting out, you’ll encounter the Vier Bruggenpad, named for the four distinctive bridges that cross the area’s waterways. Each bridge offers a different perspective on the surrounding wetlands, with opportunities to spot waterfowl such as herons, grebes, and the occasional kingfisher. The bridges themselves are architecturally interesting, blending modern design with the natural environment.

Kemphaanpad and Michauzpad As you continue, the Kemphaanpad and Michauzpad meander through mixed woodlands and open fields. The landscape here is a testament to Flevoland’s history as land reclaimed from the sea in the 20th century. The forests are relatively young, with birch, alder, and willow providing habitat for songbirds, squirrels, and deer. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the path, attracting butterflies and bees.

Nature and Wildlife

The loop is part of the larger Almeerderhout forest, a haven for wildlife. Keep an eye out for roe deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. The wetlands are particularly lively in the early morning and late afternoon, when birds are most active. Interpretive signs along the route provide information about the area’s ecology and the ongoing efforts to maintain biodiversity.

Historical Significance

Flevoland is the newest province in the Netherlands, created in the mid-20th century through one of the world’s largest land reclamation projects. The trail traverses land that was once the bottom of the Zuiderzee, a shallow bay of the North Sea. The transformation from sea to fertile polder is a remarkable feat of Dutch engineering, and remnants of this history are visible in the landscape’s straight canals and dikes.

Access and Facilities

Stadslandgoed De Kemphaan offers restrooms, a café, and picnic areas. The paths are mostly flat and surfaced with gravel or compacted earth, suitable for strollers and wheelchairs in dry conditions. Dogs are welcome but should be kept on a leash, especially near wildlife areas.

Whether you’re seeking a peaceful nature walk, a family outing, or a glimpse into the Netherlands’ innovative relationship with water and land, this loop provides a memorable experience just a short journey from Almere’s city center.