Oude Post Weg and Veenpad via Boomenland and Meeuwenvallei

Starting from the outskirts of the Drents-Friese Wold National Park, this 22 km (about 13.7 miles) loop offers a gentle, flat walk with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for most hikers. The trailhead is conveniently located near the village of Appelscha, a well-known gateway to the national park. Appelscha is easily reached by car, with parking available at the Bosberg parking area, or by public transport via bus connections from Assen or Leeuwarden train stations.

Getting Oriented and Navigation

The route is well-marked, but for added confidence and up-to-date trail conditions, use HiiKER for navigation. The app provides detailed maps and waypoints, ensuring you stay on track through the varied landscapes.

Trail Highlights and Landmarks

The hike begins by weaving through the Boomenland, a patchwork of pine and deciduous forests. Early on, you’ll notice the transition from cultivated woodland to the more open, heath-dotted expanses that characterize the Drents-Friese Wold. At around 4 km (2.5 miles), the path skirts the edge of the Meeuwenvallei, a broad, open valley known for its birdlife—especially gulls and marsh harriers. This is a prime spot for birdwatchers, so bring binoculars if you’re keen on spotting wildlife.

Continuing along the Oude Post Weg, you’ll follow a historic postal route that once connected rural communities. This section, roughly 8 km (5 miles) into the hike, is lined with old boundary stones and remnants of the region’s agricultural past. The flat terrain here is interspersed with small ponds and reed beds, attracting herons, ducks, and sometimes roe deer grazing at the forest’s edge.

Nature and Wildlife

The Veenpad section, beginning around the halfway mark, leads you through restored peat bogs—a rare habitat in the Netherlands. Interpretive signs explain the significance of these wetlands, which were once extensively harvested for peat. Today, they support a unique ecosystem, including sundews, orchids, and dragonflies. The boardwalks here keep your feet dry and protect the delicate ground.

Cultural and Historical Context

This region has a rich history of land reclamation and peat cutting, which shaped both the landscape and the local communities. The Oude Post Weg itself dates back centuries, serving as a vital link for mail and trade. Along the route, you may encounter traditional Drenthe farmhouses and small hamlets that reflect the area’s rural heritage.

Facilities and Logistics

There are several rest areas with benches and picnic tables, particularly near the Meeuwenvallei and at the forest edges. Water sources are limited, so carry enough for the day. Toilets can be found at the Bosberg parking area and at a couple of visitor centers along the route.

Access and Transport

To reach the trailhead, drive to the Bosberg parking area in Appelscha, which is signposted from the main road (N381). For public transport, take a train to Assen or Leeuwarden, then transfer to a regional bus (line 15 or 115) to Appelscha Centrum. From there, it’s a short walk to the start of the trail.

This easy, scenic loop is ideal for those seeking a full day’s immersion in the tranquil landscapes of northern Netherlands, with plenty of opportunities to observe wildlife and explore the area’s cultural history.