Generaal van Merle Weg and Langeraarse Weg Loop

Starting from the outskirts of Langeraar, a small village in South Holland, the Generaal van Merle Weg and Langeraarse Weg Loop offers a gentle 13 km (about 8 miles) circuit with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for hikers of all abilities. The trailhead is conveniently located near the intersection of Generaal van Merleweg and Langeraarseweg, just south of the Langeraarse Plassen, a scenic lake area popular with locals.

Getting There For those arriving by public transport, the nearest train station is Alphen aan den Rijn. From there, local buses connect to Langeraar, with stops within walking distance of the trailhead. If driving, parking is available near the village center or along the quieter stretches of Langeraarseweg.

Trail Experience The route follows quiet country roads and well-maintained paths, weaving through a patchwork of Dutch polder landscape—flat, open fields bordered by canals and dotted with traditional farmhouses. Early in the hike, you’ll skirt the edge of Langeraarse Plassen, where reed beds and open water attract a variety of birdlife, including herons, grebes, and, in spring and autumn, migratory waterfowl. Keep an eye out for the occasional stork nesting atop purpose-built platforms.

Landmarks and Points of Interest About 3 km (1.9 miles) in, the trail passes close to the historic windmill “De Eendracht,” a classic Dutch polder mill that once played a vital role in water management. The area’s network of dikes and canals is a testament to centuries of Dutch engineering, with the land itself reclaimed from what was once marsh and lake. Interpretive signs along the route provide insight into the region’s ongoing relationship with water.

Nature and Wildlife The open fields are home to lapwings, oystercatchers, and hares, especially in the spring when the meadows are alive with birdsong. The canal banks are lined with wildflowers in summer, and the occasional willow or alder provides shade. The landscape is especially atmospheric in the early morning, when mist lingers over the water.

Navigation and Facilities The loop is straightforward to follow, but for added confidence, use HiiKER to track your progress and locate points of interest. There are limited facilities directly on the route, so bring water and snacks. Public toilets and cafes can be found in Langeraar at the start and end of the hike.

Historical Context This region of South Holland has a long history of land reclamation, with the first polders dating back to the Middle Ages. The windmills and pumping stations you’ll see are part of a living heritage, still essential to keeping the land dry and productive. The Generaal van Merleweg itself is named after a 19th-century Dutch military figure, reflecting the area’s tradition of commemorating local and national history through its place names.

The Generaal van Merle Weg and Langeraarse Weg Loop is a peaceful, easy walk through classic Dutch countryside, rich in both natural beauty and cultural history.