Prinsendijk Route and Wierickepad Loop

Starting out near the village of Bodegraven, this 13 km (about 8 miles) loop offers a gentle, flat walk through the heart of South Holland’s polder landscape, with virtually no elevation gain—perfect for those seeking an easy, scenic day out. The route combines the Prinsendijk, a historic dike, with the Wierickepad, a path that traces the old waterways and fortifications of the Dutch Water Line.

Getting There Bodegraven is easily accessible by train from major Dutch cities such as Utrecht, Rotterdam, and Amsterdam. The train station is a short walk from the trailhead, making public transport a convenient option. For those arriving by car, parking is available near the station and in the village center.

Historic Waterways and Dikes The first section follows the Prinsendijk, a centuries-old dike that once played a crucial role in protecting the low-lying farmland from flooding. As you walk, you’ll notice the wide, open fields typical of the Groene Hart region, dotted with grazing cattle and traditional Dutch farmhouses. The dike itself is lined with willows and wildflowers in spring and summer, and the flatness of the landscape means you can see for miles in every direction.

Wierickepad and the Dutch Water Line About 4 km (2.5 miles) in, the route joins the Wierickepad, which traces the Oude Rijn river and the remains of the Old Dutch Water Line—a 17th-century defensive system that used controlled flooding to protect the region from invaders. Look out for the restored sluices and small forts along the way, particularly near Fort Wierickerschans, a star-shaped fortress built in 1673. The fort is a highlight of the loop, and while the interior may not always be open to the public, the exterior and surrounding moat are impressive and photogenic.

Nature and Wildlife The wetlands and meadows along the route are home to a variety of birdlife, including herons, storks, and lapwings. In spring, the fields are alive with the calls of nesting birds, and you may spot hares darting through the grass. The waterways are lined with reeds and water lilies, and in summer, dragonflies and butterflies are abundant.

Navigation and Facilities The entire loop is well-marked, but for added confidence, use HiiKER to follow the route and check your progress. There are several benches and picnic spots along the dike and near the fort, and Bodegraven offers cafés and shops for refreshments before or after your walk. Public toilets are available at the train station and in the village center.

This easy, flat loop is ideal for walkers of all abilities, offering a blend of Dutch history, rural scenery, and abundant wildlife, all within easy reach of public transport and local amenities.