Vohelmeer and Schoorlse Duinen Loop

Starting from the edge of Schoorl, a charming village in North Holland, the Vohelmeer and Schoorlse Duinen Loop offers a 10 km (about 6.2 miles) journey through one of the Netherlands’ most diverse dune landscapes. The trailhead is conveniently located near the Buitencentrum Schoorlse Duinen, the main visitor center, which is easily accessible by bus from Alkmaar station or by car with ample parking available.

Getting Oriented and Setting Out The route begins at the Buitencentrum, where you’ll find clear signage and trail markers. For navigation, HiiKER provides a reliable digital map of the loop, ensuring you stay on track through the shifting dunes and forested paths. The initial stretch leads you into a mosaic of pine and deciduous woodland, with sandy paths underfoot and the occasional glimpse of heather and wildflowers in late spring and summer.

Dune Landscapes and Vohelmeer After about 2 km (1.2 miles), the landscape opens up to reveal the rolling Schoorlse Duinen, the highest and widest dunes in the Netherlands. Here, you’ll encounter gentle ascents and descents, with the total elevation gain for the loop around 100 metres (328 feet). The dunes are a haven for wildlife—look out for roe deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species, including nightjars and woodlarks. The trail skirts the tranquil Vohelmeer, a small lake nestled among the dunes, which is a prime spot for birdwatching and a peaceful rest stop.

Historical and Natural Highlights The Schoorlse Duinen have a rich history, shaped by centuries of wind and water. During World War II, the area was used for military training, and remnants of bunkers can still be found hidden among the dunes. The landscape itself is constantly evolving, with shifting sands creating new habitats for rare plants like sea holly and sand sedge.

Navigating the Loop and Returning The path continues through open heathland and dense groves of Scots pine, with occasional panoramic views over the North Sea and the surrounding countryside. At around the halfway point, you’ll reach a series of wooden boardwalks that protect the delicate dune ecosystem. The final stretch brings you back through mixed woodland, with the scent of pine needles and the sound of birdsong guiding you toward the visitor center.

Facilities at the Buitencentrum include restrooms, a café, and an information desk where you can learn more about the area’s ecology and history. Public transport users can catch bus 151 from Alkmaar station, which stops just a short walk from the trailhead. For those driving, the visitor center’s address is Oorsprongweg 1, 1871 HA Schoorl.

This loop is well-suited for families and casual hikers, with mostly sandy and well-maintained paths, gentle gradients, and plenty of opportunities to pause and enjoy the scenery. The combination of forest, dune, and wetland habitats makes it a unique and memorable walk in any season.