Hulshorsterzand, Tafelberg and t Witte Zand Loop

Begin your journey at the edge of Hulshorsterzand, a vast expanse of shifting sand dunes and heathland located near the village of Hulshorst, just south of the N302 highway in the province of Gelderland, Netherlands. The trailhead is easily accessible by car, with parking available at the Hulshorsterzand car park on Hierderweg, or by public transport via bus connections from Nunspeet or Harderwijk to Hulshorst, followed by a short walk to the starting point.

Exploring the Hulshorsterzand

The first section of the loop leads you into the heart of Hulshorsterzand, one of the largest active sand drifts in the Veluwe region. The landscape here is open and windswept, with undulating sand dunes interspersed with patches of heather and scattered pine trees. This unique ecosystem is home to rare species such as sand lizards, woodlarks, and the striking green tiger beetle. The sandy terrain is flat, with virtually no elevation gain—expect a total ascent of less than 10 feet (0 metres), making this 8 km (about 5 miles) loop accessible for most hikers.

Tafelberg and t Witte Zand

After approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles), the route transitions into a more wooded area as you approach the Tafelberg, a low, flat-topped hill that stands out in the otherwise level landscape. While not a mountain by any means, the Tafelberg offers a subtle change in scenery, with denser pine and oak forests providing shade and shelter for deer and a variety of woodland birds. The trail here is well-marked and easy to follow, but sandy patches can make the going a bit slower, especially after rain.

Continuing onward, you’ll reach ’t Witte Zand, another striking sand drift area. The white sands here are especially bright on sunny days, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding greenery. This section is a favorite for photographers and nature enthusiasts, as the open vistas and shifting light create ever-changing scenes. Keep an eye out for the distinctive footprints of foxes and badgers, which are active in the area.

Navigation and Points of Interest

Navigation is straightforward, with clear signposts at major junctions. For those who prefer digital navigation, the entire loop is mapped on HiiKER, which provides up-to-date trail conditions and waypoints. Along the route, you’ll find several benches and picnic spots, particularly near the forest edges, making it easy to pause and enjoy the tranquility of the Veluwe.

Historical and Natural Significance

The Hulshorsterzand area has a rich history, shaped by centuries of grazing, forestry, and shifting sands. The landscape you see today is the result of both natural forces and human intervention, with conservation efforts now focused on preserving the delicate balance between open sand and encroaching vegetation. The Veluwe region itself is renowned for its biodiversity and is one of the largest contiguous nature reserves in the Netherlands.

Getting There

By car, set your navigation to Hulshorsterzand car park, Hierderweg, Hulshorst. For public transport, take a train to Nunspeet or Harderwijk, then transfer to a local bus toward Hulshorst. From the Hulshorst bus stop, it’s a short walk west along Hierderweg to the trailhead.

This easy, family-friendly loop offers a rare glimpse into the dynamic landscapes of the Dutch Veluwe, with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife, enjoy peaceful forests, and experience the ever-changing beauty of the sand drifts.