De Zandput, Everdinger Waarden and Fort Everdingen Loop

Starting from the vicinity of Fort Everdingen, a well-preserved 19th-century fortress just south of the village of Everdingen in the Netherlands, this loop trail covers approximately 15 km (9.3 miles) with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is easily reached by car via the A2 motorway, with parking available near Fort Everdingen itself. For those using public transport, the nearest train station is in Culemborg, from which local buses or a short taxi ride can bring you to the fort.

Navigating the Route

The loop is best navigated using the HiiKER app, which provides up-to-date trail maps and waypoints. The route is mostly flat, following dikes, grassy paths, and riverside tracks, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended, especially after rain when some sections can be muddy.

Highlights and Landmarks

Fort Everdingen, the starting point, is a striking example of Dutch waterline defense architecture, built in the mid-1800s as part of the New Dutch Waterline. The fort itself is surrounded by a moat and now houses a craft brewery, making it a unique spot to explore before or after your hike.

Heading west, the trail enters the Everdinger Waarden, a floodplain area along the Lek River. This section, roughly 3 km (1.9 miles) from the start, is renowned for its open meadows, reed beds, and seasonal wetlands. The area is a haven for birdlife, including storks, herons, and various waterfowl. In spring and summer, wildflowers blanket the meadows, attracting butterflies and bees.

De Zandput and River Views

At about the halfway mark, around 7.5 km (4.7 miles) in, you’ll reach De Zandput, a former sand excavation site now transformed into a tranquil nature reserve. The water-filled pit is bordered by willow trees and reeds, providing habitat for kingfishers and other aquatic birds. Benches along the water’s edge offer a peaceful spot for a break.

Continuing along the river, the trail offers expansive views of the Lek and its passing barges. The dike paths here are lined with poplars and offer a glimpse into the region’s agricultural life, with grazing cattle and sheep in the surrounding fields.

Returning to Fort Everdingen

The final stretch loops back toward the fort, passing through a mix of pastureland and small woodland patches. Watch for roe deer at dawn or dusk, and listen for woodpeckers in the trees. The flat terrain and open vistas make this section especially pleasant in the late afternoon light.

Practical Information

There are limited facilities along the route, so bring water and snacks. The brewery at Fort Everdingen offers refreshments and restrooms at the start and end of your hike. Dogs are allowed on leash, but be mindful of grazing livestock in the meadows. The entire loop is suitable for families and those seeking a leisurely day outdoors, with plenty of opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy the historic landscape shaped by centuries of Dutch water management.