Bosvijver, Eem and Monnikenbosch Loop

This easy loop is a flat, waterside-and-woodland walk on the northeast edge of Soest, linking the Eem river corridor with quiet ponds and the Monnikenbosch woodland. At around 10 km (6.2 mi) with roughly 0 m (0 ft) of climbing, it’s ideal for a relaxed half-day outing—expect mostly level paths, short paved connectors, and a few potentially muddy stretches after rain.

Getting to the start (Soest / Soesterkwartier edge) A practical place to begin is near **Soesterkwartier (Amersfoort)** at the **Amsterdamseweg / Radiumweg** area, close to the rail lines and the built-up edge shown on the route.

- By public transport: Take the train to Amersfoort Centraal (major hub). From there, local buses and a short walk can get you to the Soesterkwartier side near Amsterdamseweg. If you prefer to walk in, it’s also feasible from the station area—plan extra distance if you do. - By car: Aim for parking near Amsterdamseweg on the Soesterkwartier side (residential/roadside parking rules apply) or near the green edge by Birkhoven. Arrive early on weekends; this is a popular local recreation zone.

If you load the loop into HiiKER, you’ll be able to follow the track cleanly through the field edges and woodland junctions where signage can be intermittent.

What the terrain is like - **Surface:** A mix of compacted dirt/gravel paths, grassy field-edge tracks, and short paved sections near roads. - **Gradient:** Essentially flat; any “ups and downs” are minor embankments and path undulations. - **Seasonal conditions:** After wet weather, expect **soft ground and puddling** in low-lying sections near water and in the woods. In winter, shaded woodland can hold slick patches longer than open farmland.

Route flow and key landmarks (with approximate distances) **0.0–2.0 km (0.0–1.2 mi): Green edge and approach to the river landscape** From the Soesterkwartier/Birkhoven edge, the loop quickly leaves the urban fringe and threads into open green space. You’ll notice the landscape flattening out into classic lowland terrain—ditches, drainage channels, and long sightlines. This is a good warm-up section with easy navigation, but watch for cyclists on shared paths near access points.

2.0–4.5 km (1.2–2.8 mi): Along the Eem corridor near Coelhorst The route swings toward the Eem—a calm, lowland river that has long shaped settlement and farming patterns in this part of Utrecht. Near Coelhorst, you’ll get the most “big-sky” feel of the loop: open fields, reedier margins, and waterfowl habitat. What to look for: - Birdlife: Expect geese, ducks, coots, herons, and seasonal migrants. Early morning and late afternoon are best for activity. - Wind exposure: This section can feel cooler than the rest of the walk; bring a light shell even on mild days.

4.5–6.5 km (2.8–4.0 mi): Ponds and wet ground around Bosvijver As you arc away from the river, the loop passes quieter water features—ponds and wet hollows that can attract amphibians and dragonflies in warmer months. The ground here can be the softest on the route. Practical notes: - Footwear: Light hiking shoes are fine in dry spells; after rain, water-resistant shoes help. - Bugs: In late spring/summer, expect mosquitoes near still water—repellent can be worthwhile.

Woodland section: Monnikenbosch (most sheltered part of the loop) **6.5–8.5 km (4.0–5.3 mi): Under trees, quieter paths, and junctions** The loop dips into **Monnikenbosch**, where the feel changes immediately—more shade, leaf litter, and a tighter network of intersecting tracks. This is the section where it’s easiest to take a wrong turn at a multi-path junction, so it’s the best place to keep **HiiKER** handy. What to look for: - **Woodland birds** (tits, woodpeckers) and small mammals. - **Fallen branches** and rooty patches—easy terrain overall, but watch footing if it’s damp.

8.5–10.0 km (5.3–6.2 mi): Return toward Birkhoven / Soesterkwartier Leaving the trees, the route returns to the open edge near Birkhoven, with the built environment gradually reappearing. This final stretch is straightforward and flat, often with a bit more local foot traffic.

Nature and wildlife expectations This loop sits in a classic Dutch lowland mosaic: **river corridor + managed fields + ponds + mixed woodland**. Depending on season and time of day, you may see: - **Waterfowl and waders** along the Eem and drainage channels - **Raptors** (buzzards/kestrels) scanning field margins - **Amphibians and insects** around still water in warmer months - **Deer** are possible in quieter woodland edges, especially at dawn/dusk, though sightings aren’t guaranteed

Keep dogs leashed where required—ground-nesting birds and sensitive wetland edges can be easily disturbed.

Historical context to