De Wester via Buitendijks Traject from Hoedekenskerke

Starting from the charming village of Hoedekenskerke, this 6 km (about 3.7 miles) circular walk follows the Buitendijks Traject, a route that hugs the outer dike along the southern shores of Zuid-Beveland in Zeeland, the Netherlands. With virtually no elevation gain, this easy trail is perfect for walkers of all abilities, including families and those seeking a leisurely day out in the Dutch countryside.

Getting There

Hoedekenskerke is accessible by both car and public transport. Drivers can park near the village center, close to the intersection of Stationsstraat and Dorpsstraat, just a short walk from the dike. For those using public transport, take the train to Goes, then transfer to a local bus (such as line 599) that stops at Hoedekenskerke, making the trailhead easily reachable.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route begins near the historic Hoedekenskerke railway station, a notable landmark that once served the local steam train and now operates as a heritage railway. From here, the path leads you out of the village and onto the dike, where you’ll follow the Buitendijks Traject—an outer dike path that offers expansive views over the Westerschelde estuary.

For navigation, HiiKER provides detailed maps and GPS tracks, ensuring you stay on course along the sometimes winding dike paths and through open fields.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

- Hoedekenskerke Heritage Railway: At the start, the preserved station and occasional steam train rides evoke the region’s transport history. - Westerschelde Views: The dike offers panoramic vistas across the tidal estuary, where you can watch ships heading to and from the port of Antwerp. - De Wester: About halfway along the route, you’ll pass De Wester, a nature reserve known for its salt marshes and mudflats. This area is a haven for birdlife, especially waders and waterfowl, so bring binoculars for a closer look at avocets, oystercatchers, and shelducks. - Historic Dike System: The dikes themselves are a testament to centuries of Dutch water management. Interpretive signs along the route explain the history of land reclamation and the ongoing battle against the sea.

Nature and Wildlife

The salt marshes and mudflats along the Westerschelde are rich in biodiversity. Depending on the season, you may spot migratory birds, grazing sheep, and a variety of wildflowers adapted to the saline environment. The open landscape is also home to hares and, occasionally, roe deer.

Trail Conditions and Preparation

The entire route is flat, with well-maintained gravel and grass paths atop the dike. Waterproof footwear is recommended, especially after rain, as some sections can be muddy. There are no steep climbs or technical sections, making this trail accessible for most walkers.

Facilities and Refreshments

Hoedekenskerke offers a few cafés and a small shop near the start and end of the walk. Public toilets are available at the railway station and in the village center. There are benches along the dike for rest stops and picnics.

Historical Significance

Zuid-Beveland’s dike system dates back to the Middle Ages, when local communities built and reinforced these barriers to reclaim land from the sea. The area around Hoedekenskerke was once a patchwork of islands, gradually joined by dikes and polders. The Westerschelde estuary remains vital for shipping and ecology, and the region’s history is closely tied to both the struggle against flooding and the prosperity brought by maritime trade.

This easy, scenic walk is ideal for those interested in Dutch water management, birdwatching, and the tranquil beauty of Zeeland’s coastal landscapes.