Zwaakse Weel via Grenslandpad

Starting from the outskirts of Kwadendamme, a small village in Zeeland, the Zwaakse Weel via Grenslandpad loop offers a gentle 9 km (about 5.6 miles) journey through one of the Netherlands’ most unique reclaimed landscapes. With virtually no elevation gain, this easy trail is perfect for hikers of all levels, including families and those seeking a relaxed day outdoors.

Getting There

Kwadendamme is accessible by both car and public transport. If arriving by train, the nearest station is Goes, which is well-connected to major Dutch cities. From Goes, local buses run to Kwadendamme, with stops near the village center—just a short walk from the trailhead. For those driving, parking is available near the Zwaakse Weel nature reserve entrance, close to the intersection of Zwaaksedijk and Oudelandseweg.

Trail Experience and Navigation

The loop follows a section of the Grenslandpad, a long-distance path that traces the Dutch-Belgian border. The route is well-marked, but for added confidence, use HiiKER for up-to-date navigation and trail conditions. The path is mostly flat, with wide grassy tracks and compacted earth, making it accessible even after rain.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

- Zwaakse Weel Nature Reserve Early in the hike, you’ll enter the heart of the Zwaakse Weel, a restored wetland that was once part of the vast salt marshes and tidal creeks of Zeeland. The area is now managed by Natuurmonumenten and is renowned for its biodiversity. Look for reed beds, open water, and willow thickets, which provide habitat for marsh harriers, kingfishers, and a variety of waterfowl. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the dikes and meadows.

- Historic Dikes and Polders Around the 3 km (1.9 mile) mark, the trail skirts ancient dikes—remnants of centuries-old land reclamation efforts. These dikes protected the land from the sea and allowed for the creation of fertile polders. Interpretive signs along the route explain the history of the region’s battle against the water, a defining feature of Zeeland’s cultural heritage.

- Traditional Zeeland Farms As you loop back toward Kwadendamme, you’ll pass several traditional farmsteads, some dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. Their characteristic red-tiled roofs and whitewashed walls are typical of the region. Keep an eye out for grazing sheep and cattle, which help maintain the open landscape.

Nature and Wildlife

The Zwaakse Weel is a hotspot for birdwatchers. Depending on the season, you might spot spoonbills, herons, and even the elusive bittern. The wetlands are also home to amphibians and dragonflies, especially near the open water. In autumn, the hedgerows are heavy with berries, attracting flocks of thrushes and finches.

Trail Facilities and Tips

There are benches and picnic spots at several points along the route, particularly near the water. The trail is mostly exposed, so bring sun protection on clear days. There are no shops or cafes directly on the trail, but Kwadendamme has a few small eateries and a bakery for pre- or post-hike refreshments. Public toilets are available at the nature reserve entrance.

For those interested in extending their walk, the Grenslandpad continues for many more kilometers, offering further exploration of Zeeland’s unique landscapes. Always check HiiKER for the latest trail updates and to download offline maps before setting out.