Vogelkijkscherm in Berkenbos and De Balij

Embarking on the approximately 9-kilometer (5.6-mile) hike through Berkenbos and De Balij offers a serene journey through diverse landscapes, including young forests, open meadows, and wetlands. With virtually no elevation gain, this easy trail is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Trail Overview

The hike begins near Stadsboerderij De Balijhoeve, located at Kurkhout 100, 2719 JZ Zoetermeer. This urban farm serves as an excellent starting point, offering parking facilities and amenities such as restrooms and a café. From here, the trail meanders through De Balij, a forest established in the early 1990s as part of the Randstad's green infrastructure. The initial segment leads you through the Floriadebos, the oldest section of De Balij, planted for the 1992 Floriade horticultural exhibition. The forest comprises a mix of beech, oak, ash, and alder trees, creating a lush canopy that provides shade and a habitat for various bird species.

Key Landmarks and Features

- Vogelkijkscherm (Bird Watching Screen): Approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) into the hike, you'll encounter a strategically placed bird-watching screen overlooking a wetland area. This spot is ideal for observing a variety of waterfowl and wading birds. Species such as the common kingfisher and various ducks are frequently spotted here. The screen allows for discreet observation, minimizing disturbance to the wildlife.

- De Scheg: Further along, around the 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) mark, you'll reach De Scheg, a 60-meter (197-foot) long wooden bridge that spans a marshy area. This bridge offers panoramic views of the surrounding wetlands, where you might see grazing Galloway cattle and Icelandic horses, which help maintain the open landscape. The area is also home to various bird species, including the Eurasian spoonbill during the summer months.

- Speelbos De Balij (Play Forest): Near the end of the hike, around the 8-kilometer (5-mile) point, you'll pass by Speelbos De Balij, a play forest designed for children. Themed around knights and castles, it features wooden structures, a water pump, and various climbing and balancing elements. It's an excellent spot for families to take a break and let children explore.

Flora and Fauna

The trail traverses a variety of habitats, each supporting diverse plant and animal life. In the forested sections, keep an eye out for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and treecreepers. The open meadows and wetlands are frequented by meadow pipits, reed warblers, and, during migration seasons, various species of geese and waders. The presence of grazing animals like Galloway cattle and Icelandic horses contributes to the area's biodiversity by preventing overgrowth and promoting a mosaic of habitats.

Historical Significance

De Balij's name traces back to the term 'Balije,' referring to a subdivision of the Knights of St. John who inhabited the area during the 11th and 12th centuries. The forest itself is relatively young, with the oldest parts dating back to the early 1990s when it was developed to enhance the green space between Zoetermeer and Delft. The Floriadebos section commemorates the 1992 Floriade, an international horticultural exhibition that left a lasting legacy in the form of this lush woodland.

Getting There

- By Car: From the A12 motorway, take exit 7 toward Zoetermeer. Follow signs for Rokkeveen and then for Stadsboerderij De Balijhoeve, located at Kurkhout 100, 2719 JZ Zoetermeer. Parking is available on-site.

- By Public Transport: From Zoetermeer Station, take bus 170 toward Delft and alight at the 'Kurkhout' stop. From there, it's a short walk to the trailhead at Stadsboerderij De Balijhoeve.

Trail Conditions and Accessibility

The trail is well-maintained, with a combination of paved and unpaved paths. While generally flat, some sections may become muddy after heavy rain, so appropriate footwear is recommended. The route is accessible year-round, but certain areas, such as the laarzenpad (boot path), may be seasonally wet and are best navigated with waterproof boots. The play forest and family-friendly paths make this hike suitable for visitors of all ages.

Navigation

For detailed maps and real-time navigation, consider using HiiKER, which