Rietmolen to Gelselaat via Veenhut Weg and Schipbeeek

Starting near the village of Rietmolen in the eastern Netherlands, this 17 km (about 10.5 miles) point-to-point hike to Gelselaar follows a gentle, flat route with virtually no elevation gain, making it accessible for most walkers. The trail weaves through the rural heart of Gelderland and Overijssel provinces, offering a peaceful journey through farmland, small forests, and alongside the Schipbeek stream.

Getting There

Rietmolen is accessible by regional bus from larger towns such as Neede or Haaksbergen, both of which connect to the Dutch rail network. If arriving by car, parking is available near the village center, close to the St. Caecilia Church, a recognizable local landmark. Gelselaar, the endpoint, is also served by local buses, making a return to your starting point straightforward.

Trail Overview and Navigation

The route begins near Rietmolen’s church square, quickly leaving the village behind as you head east along quiet country lanes. The first few kilometers pass through open farmland, where you’ll see traditional Dutch farmhouses and grazing livestock. Navigation is straightforward, but for precise wayfinding and to track your progress, use the HiiKER app, which provides up-to-date trail maps and waypoints.

Veenhut Weg and Schipbeek

After about 5 km (3 miles), the trail joins Veenhut Weg, a rural road that hints at the area’s peat-cutting history. The landscape here is dotted with small patches of woodland and drainage ditches, remnants of centuries-old land reclamation efforts. Birdlife is abundant, especially in spring and summer, with storks, herons, and songbirds common sights.

At roughly the halfway point, you’ll reach the banks of the Schipbeek, a historic waterway that once played a vital role in regional trade and agriculture. The path follows the stream for several kilometers, shaded by willows and alders. This section is particularly tranquil, with occasional benches for rest and opportunities to spot kingfishers or water voles.

Approaching Gelselaar

Leaving the Schipbeek, the trail turns north toward Gelselaar, a picturesque village known for its well-preserved Saxon farmhouses and cobbled streets. The final stretch passes through a mosaic of meadows and small woods, with the spire of Gelselaar’s church visible in the distance. The village itself is a protected heritage site, offering a glimpse into rural Dutch life as it was centuries ago.

Historical and Natural Highlights

The region’s history is deeply tied to agriculture and water management. The Schipbeek was once a vital transport route for peat and grain, and the surrounding fields have been cultivated since medieval times. The villages of Rietmolen and Gelselaar both feature historic churches and farmsteads, some dating back to the 17th century.

Wildlife enthusiasts should keep an eye out for roe deer in the early morning or late afternoon, and the varied hedgerows support a rich diversity of butterflies and insects in summer. The flat terrain and well-maintained paths make this hike suitable for all fitness levels, and the rural setting ensures a peaceful experience away from busy tourist routes.

Public transport connections at both ends, combined with the easy terrain and scenic countryside, make this route an excellent choice for a relaxed day hike in the Dutch heartland.