Plaat van Baarland via Zeedijk and Zuidpolderdijk

Starting from the village of Baarland, located in the scenic province of Zeeland, this circular walk covers approximately 10 km (6.2 miles) with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently situated near the heart of Baarland, close to the recognizable landmark of Slot Baarland, a historic castle that dates back to the 14th century. This area is easily reached by car via the N666, with parking available in the village. For those using public transport, buses from Goes or Middelburg stop at Baarland, a short walk from the starting point.

Route Overview and Navigation

The route follows a gentle loop, first heading out along the Zeedijk, a prominent sea dike that has protected the land from the waters of the Westerschelde for centuries. The Zeedijk offers expansive views over the estuary, where you can spot large container ships gliding towards Antwerp and observe tidal mudflats teeming with birdlife. HiiKER is recommended for navigation, as it provides up-to-date trail maps and waypoints for this region.

After about 3 km (1.9 miles), the path turns inland at the Zuidpolderdijk, a classic Dutch polder dike lined with wildflowers in spring and summer. This section is particularly tranquil, with the only sounds coming from grazing sheep and the calls of lapwings and oystercatchers. The Zuidpolderdijk leads you through a patchwork of reclaimed farmland, a testament to Zeeland’s centuries-old battle with the sea.

Nature, Wildlife, and Points of Interest

The area is renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons when thousands of waders and waterfowl rest on the mudflats and polders. Keep an eye out for avocets, curlews, and the occasional marsh harrier. The dikes themselves are lined with sea lavender and thrift, adding color to the landscape.

At roughly the halfway point, you’ll pass close to the small hamlet of Zuidpolder, where traditional Zeeland farmhouses dot the horizon. The route then curves back towards Baarland, passing orchards and meadows that are especially vibrant in late spring.

Historical Significance

This region of Zuid-Beveland has a rich history shaped by its relationship with the sea. The dikes you walk on were constructed and reinforced over centuries to reclaim land and protect against flooding, most notably during the North Sea Flood of 1953. Remnants of old sluices and drainage channels can still be seen along the route, offering a glimpse into the area’s engineering heritage.

Practical Information

The entire loop is flat, with a total elevation gain of less than 5 metres (16 feet), and is suitable for families, casual walkers, and cyclists. Surfaces are a mix of paved dike paths and well-maintained gravel tracks. There are no steep sections or technical terrain. Facilities are limited along the route, so bring water and snacks. Public toilets and a café can be found back in Baarland near the start and end of the hike.

For navigation, use HiiKER to follow the route and locate points of interest. The app provides offline maps, which are useful as mobile signal can be patchy in some rural sections.