Medemblik to Enkhuizen via Ijsselmeer

This is a flat, waterside-to-waterside day walk across classic West Friesland, linking the historic harbor town of Medemblik with Enkhuizen’s old Zuiderzee port—almost entirely at or near sea level. At around 24 km (15 miles) with roughly 0 m (0 ft) of climbing, it’s best planned as a steady, wind-aware coastal ramble rather than a “fitness” hike.

Getting to the start (Medemblik)

Start area (nearest landmark): the most practical place to begin is by Medemblik Harbor (Oude Haven / Oosterhaven area) near the old town center and waterfront.

• By public transport: Medemblik doesn’t have a mainline rail station. The simplest approach is typically train to Hoorn (a major rail hub in the region), then bus onward toward Medemblik and a short walk to the harbor/old town. Check current bus routing and stop names before you go, as services can vary by season and day.
• By car: Medemblik is straightforward to reach via regional roads from Hoorn/Alkmaar direction. Aim for parking near the harbor/old town; arrive early on weekends or in summer, when waterfront parking fills quickly.

What the route feels like underfoot

Expect paved paths, compacted gravel, and dike-top walking—generally smooth and fast. Because the elevation is essentially flat, the main “effort” comes from distance and exposure: long open stretches with little shelter where wind off the IJsselmeer can make 24 km feel longer than it looks on paper.

Plan on 5–6.5 hours of walking time for most hikers (more if you stop often in villages or along the water).

Along the IJsselmeer: dikes, big skies, and constant wind

Within the first few kilometers, you’ll settle into the defining character of this hike: water on one side, polder landscape on the other, stitched together by dikes and drainage canals. The IJsselmeer is the modern freshwater remnant of the former Zuiderzee, and the whole region is a living lesson in Dutch water engineering—land reclaimed, protected, and managed with precision.

What to look for - Dike infrastructure: sluices, pumping stations, and canal junctions are common. They’re not just functional; they’re the reason these towns exist where they do. - Birdlife: the IJsselmeer shoreline and adjacent fields are excellent for waterfowl and waders. Depending on season you may see geese, ducks, gulls, terns, and in migration periods, larger mixed flocks moving along the waterline. Keep an eye on fence posts and channel edges for raptors scanning the fields. - Seasonal conditions: in cooler months, the wind can be biting even when temperatures look mild; in summer, the open dike can feel surprisingly hot with little shade.

Distance cues (approximate) - 0–8 km (0–5 mi): leaving Medemblik’s harbor/old town, you transition quickly into open dike and canal scenery. - 8–16 km (5–10 mi): the most “rhythmic” section—long, straight, exposed walking with wide views and minimal elevation change. - 16–24 km (10–15 mi): the approach to Enkhuizen becomes more built-up and maritime again, with increasing signs of the town’s historic port identity.

Towns, history, and landmarks you’re walking between

Medemblik and Enkhuizen both grew wealthy and strategically important through maritime trade when the Zuiderzee was open saltwater. Even though today’s IJsselmeer is enclosed and freshwater, the harbor layouts, sea defenses, and old-town street patterns still reflect that seafaring past.

Medemblik - Known for its historic waterfront character and defensive heritage. If you have time before starting, the old-town core and harbor edges are the most atmospheric places to orient yourself.

Enkhuizen - Enkhuizen is one of the classic Zuiderzee towns, with a strong maritime identity and well-preserved historic center. As you near the finish, you’ll notice more harbor basins, old quays, and traditional waterside architecture.

Navigation, services, and practical planning

• Navigation: the terrain is flat and generally intuitive, but the network of dikes, canals, and farm roads can create “parallel path” confusion. Load the route in HiiKER and keep an eye on junctions where multiple tracks run alongside the same waterway.
• Food & water: Medemblik and Enkhuizen have plenty of options, but mid-route services can be sparse depending on the exact line you take. Carry enough water for a full day in exposed conditions—especially in warm weather.
• Toilets: easiest at the start and finish; don’t assume facilities along the dike.
• Footwear: light hiking shoes or sturdy walking trainers are usually ideal on hard surfaces. If it’s been wet, some farm-track edges can be muddy, but most of the walking remains firm.
• Wind/rain gear: bring a windproof layer year-round. On an exposed dike, even light rain can feel harsher because there’s nowhere to hide.
• Road awareness: some dike-top sections may be shared with cyclists or local access traffic. Walk predictably, keep right where appropriate, and be especially attentive on narrow paved stretches.

Hazards and things to watch out for

• Exposure: little shade and few windbreaks for long stretches—sun protection matters in summer; windchill