Gouda to Oudewater via Struinpad, Goverwellepad and Jaagpad

Starting from the historic city of Gouda, famous for its cheese markets and beautiful medieval architecture, this 12 km (about 7.5 miles) route to Oudewater is a gentle, flat walk with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers. The trailhead is conveniently located near Gouda’s main train station, allowing easy access by public transport from major Dutch cities like Rotterdam and Utrecht. If arriving by car, parking is available at the station or in nearby public lots.

Leaving Gouda: Urban Charm and Waterways The walk begins in the heart of Gouda, where you’ll quickly transition from the bustling city center to quieter residential streets. Within the first kilometer, you’ll join the Struinpad, a scenic path that traces the banks of the Hollandse IJssel river. This section offers views of traditional Dutch canal houses and the occasional passing barge, a reminder of the region’s long-standing relationship with water transport.

Struinpad and Goverwellepad: Wetlands and Wildlife As you continue, the route merges with the Goverwellepad, leading you through lush green meadows and alongside reed-lined ditches. This area is part of the Groene Hart (Green Heart), a protected rural zone in the Randstad. Expect to see grazing cows, flocks of geese, and, in spring and summer, a variety of wildflowers. The wetlands here are a haven for birdwatchers, with herons, storks, and lapwings commonly spotted. The flat, open landscape is typical of the Dutch polder system, where centuries of land reclamation have shaped both the scenery and local culture.

Jaagpad: Historic Towpaths and Oudewater’s Medieval Core Around the 8 km (5 mile) mark, the trail joins the Jaagpad, a historic towpath once used by horses to pull barges along the river. This section is shaded by willows and poplars, and you’ll pass several small bridges and locks, each with its own story. The final stretch brings you into Oudewater, a town renowned for its medieval witch weighhouse (Heksenwaag) and charming cobbled streets. Oudewater’s weighhouse is a UNESCO-listed site, where, in the 16th and 17th centuries, people accused of witchcraft could prove their innocence by being weighed fairly—a unique piece of Dutch history.

Navigation and Amenities The entire route is well-marked, but for added confidence, use HiiKER to follow the trail and check for any updates or diversions. There are several benches and picnic spots along the way, particularly near the riverbanks. Public toilets and cafés can be found at both the start in Gouda and the finish in Oudewater, with a few rural tea gardens open seasonally en route.

Getting There and Back To reach the start, take a train to Gouda station, which is a major hub with frequent connections. If driving, set your navigation to Stationsplein, Gouda for parking. At the end of the hike, Oudewater is served by regular buses back to Gouda and Utrecht, making it easy to return to your starting point or continue your journey.

This route is ideal for those seeking a leisurely walk through quintessential Dutch landscapes, with a blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.