Het Luyendijkje, Recreatiegebied Speelsloot, De Marsen and De Hogelkamp Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Purmerend, this 10 km (about 6.2 miles) loop trail offers a flat and accessible route through the scenic recreational areas of Het Luyendijkje, Speelsloot, De Marsen, and De Hogelkamp. With virtually no elevation gain, this easy walk is ideal for families, casual hikers, and anyone seeking a peaceful day outdoors.

Getting There
The trailhead is conveniently located near the Purmerend Weidevenne train station, making it easily accessible by public transport from Amsterdam and surrounding cities. From the station, it’s a short walk to the start of the loop. For those arriving by car, parking is available at the nearby recreational area entrances, particularly at the Speelsloot car park.

Route Overview and Navigation
The loop begins by following the tree-lined Het Luyendijkje, a historic dike that once played a role in local water management. The path is well-marked and mostly paved or gravel, suitable for all fitness levels and strollers. For precise navigation and real-time trail updates, HiiKER is recommended.

Natural Highlights and Wildlife
After about 2 km (1.2 miles), the route enters Recreatiegebied Speelsloot, a popular green space with open meadows, small lakes, and picnic spots. Birdwatchers will appreciate the abundance of waterfowl, including herons, coots, and grebes, especially near the water’s edge. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the ditches and meadows, attracting butterflies and bees.

Continuing into De Marsen, the landscape transitions to a mix of wetlands and reed beds. This area is quieter, offering a chance to spot roe deer at dawn or dusk and listen for the calls of reed warblers. The trail here is slightly narrower but remains flat and easy to follow.

Landmarks and Historical Interest
At approximately 6 km (3.7 miles), the route passes through De Hogelkamp, an area with a blend of modern recreational facilities and remnants of old Dutch polder landscapes. Look for the traditional windmills in the distance, a reminder of the region’s centuries-old battle with water. Informational signs along the way detail the history of local land reclamation and the importance of dikes and sluices in shaping the countryside.

Facilities and Practical Tips
Rest areas and benches are scattered throughout the route, especially near the lakes and playgrounds in Speelsloot. Public toilets and a small café can be found near the main entrance to the recreational area. The entire loop is dog-friendly, though dogs should be kept on a leash in wildlife-sensitive zones.

The trail is accessible year-round, but waterproof footwear is advisable after heavy rain, as some sections can become muddy. Cyclists also use parts of the route, so be mindful at shared path intersections.

For those interested in extending their walk, several side paths connect to other green spaces around Purmerend, all easily explored with the help of HiiKER’s detailed maps.