Rotterdam via Zandmotorpad, Deltapad and Schiedamseweg

This is a long, flat, sea-to-city traverse across South Holland that links engineered coastline, dune-and-beach walking, and the low-lying dike-and-canal landscapes that made Rotterdam possible. At roughly 123 km / 76 mi with about 0 m / 0 ft of total climbing, the challenge is less about elevation and more about wind exposure, long stretches of firm sand or paved dikes, and managing food/water between towns.

Where the hike starts (nearest landmark) + getting there

Because the route name references Zandmotorpad, the most logical “trailhead” is at the Zandmotor (Sand Motor) on the Delfland coast, near Ter Heijde / Kijkduin—an artificial sand peninsula created for coastal protection and recreation. A common, easy-to-find access point used for excursions is by the turning loop on Machiel Vrijenhoeklaan at the end of the parking area by Vakantiepark Kijkduin (The Hague). (zuidhollandslandschap.nl)

By public transport (from Rotterdam/The Hague): - Take train/metro to Den Haag Centraal or Den Haag HS, then local transit toward Kijkduin; from there you walk out to the dunes and beach access leading to the Zandmotor. (Expect a short urban approach before you hit sand.) - If you’re finishing in Rotterdam/Schiedam, it’s straightforward to return by rail/metro from Schiedam Centrum (major station west of Rotterdam). (en.wikipedia.org)

By car: - Park near Kijkduin (The Hague) and walk to the Zandmotor access. Parking fills quickly on warm, windy weekends (kitesurfers and beachgoers), so arriving early matters.

Use HiiKER to keep your line clean through the dune access points and later through the dense street network as you approach Rotterdam.

What the terrain feels like (and why “0 m gain” can still be demanding)

You’ll move through three main surfaces: 1. Open beach and compact sand around the Zandmotor (pace varies with tide and sand firmness). 2. Dune paths and coastal hardpack where wind and blowing sand can be constant. 3. Dikes, towpaths, and urban edges as you transition inland toward Rotterdam and Schiedam—fast underfoot, but mentally demanding due to crossings and navigation.

Even with negligible elevation, plan for headwinds off the North Sea and sun exposure with very little shade on the coast and on many dike sections.

The coastal opening: Zandmotorpad (approx. 0–25 km / 0–16 mi)

The first day-feeling segment is dominated by the Zandmotor, a “building with nature” coastal defense project: a huge deposit of sand shaped to let waves and currents gradually redistribute it along the coast over time. It was created on the Delfland coast near Ter Heijde as a large-scale nourishment to support long-term shoreline safety while also expanding space for nature and recreation. (boskalis.com)

What to expect underfoot - Firm wet sand near the waterline can be wonderfully efficient walking—until you hit soft patches. - Soft dry sand higher on the beach can double your effort; if the tide is safe, staying lower is usually easier. - Watch for tidal pools/lagoon edges and small inlets that can force detours.

Nature and wildlife - This coast is a magnet for seabirds (gulls, terns, waders) and you’ll often see birds feeding along the surf line and resting on sandbars. - In windy conditions, expect kitesurfing activity around the Zandmotor area; give lines and launch zones a wide berth. (35knots.com)

Key hazards - Wind chill: even mild temperatures can feel cold when the wind is up. - Blowing sand: sunglasses help; a buff/face covering can be useful on gusty days. - Tide timing: check tide tables before committing to long beach stretches.

Inland transition: Deltapad-style lowlands, dikes, and waterworks (approx. 25–95 km / 16–59 mi)

As you leave the immediate beachfront, the route character shifts into the Netherlands