Haulerwijk to Opende via Taeijewyk

Starting from the village of Haulerwijk in Friesland, this 22 km (about 13.7 miles) point-to-point hike to Opende via Taeijewyk is a gentle journey through the rural heart of the northern Netherlands. With virtually no elevation gain, it’s an accessible route for walkers of all abilities, making it ideal for those seeking a relaxed day out in the countryside.

Getting There

Haulerwijk is easily reached by public transport. The nearest major train station is in Assen, from where you can take a regional bus (such as line 14 or 84) to Haulerwijk, alighting at the Haulerwijk, Hoofdweg stop, which is close to the trailhead. For those arriving by car, parking is available near the village center, particularly around Hoofdweg, the main street running through Haulerwijk.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route heads southwest from Haulerwijk, weaving through a patchwork of farmland, peat meadows, and small forests. The trail is well-marked, but for added confidence, use HiiKER for real-time navigation and waypoints. The terrain is predominantly flat, with well-maintained paths and occasional stretches along quiet country roads.

Landmarks and Points of Interest

- Haulerwijk and the Peat Colonies The hike begins in Haulerwijk, a village with roots in the 18th-century peat industry. The canal running through the village, the Haulerwijkstervaart, was once a vital artery for transporting peat, and remnants of this history are visible in the landscape and local architecture.

- Taeijewyk and Surrounding Nature Around the halfway mark, you’ll pass through the hamlet of Taeijewyk, a tranquil spot surrounded by open fields and small woodlands. This area is known for its birdlife, especially in spring and autumn when migratory species pass through. Keep an eye out for marsh harriers, lapwings, and the occasional stork.

- Frisian-Groningen Borderlands As you approach Opende, the landscape subtly shifts. You’ll cross from Friesland into Groningen province, marked by changes in dialect, farm architecture, and even the style of roadside chapels and windmills. The border region has a unique cultural blend, with both Frisian and Groningen influences evident in local signage and traditions.

Wildlife and Flora

The route traverses a mix of agricultural land, hedgerows, and small patches of heath and woodland. In spring and summer, wildflowers line the ditches, and you may spot hares darting across the fields. The area is also home to roe deer, foxes, and a variety of songbirds. Wetland sections near drainage canals attract herons and ducks.

Finishing in Opende

The hike concludes near the center of Opende, a small village with a few local cafés and shops. The nearest bus stop is Opende, Kerk, located on Provincialeweg, offering connections to Groningen and Drachten. If you’ve parked in Haulerwijk, buses run regularly between the two villages, making it easy to return to your starting point.

This route is best enjoyed with sturdy walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a packed lunch, as services along the way are limited. The flat, open landscape offers expansive views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking to experience the quiet beauty of the Dutch countryside.