What to expect
Netherlands has 29 trails
including medium and easy trails.
The trail with the highest elevation climb is the Noardlike Fryske Wâlden
and the one with the least climb is the Pelgrimspad 2.
The longest trail is Zuiderzeepad
at 489 km. To complete this hike you should budget at least 22 days.
For a shorter adventure, you can try the Twentepad
a t 91.3 km. This could be done in as little as 5 days.
Trails with the best offering of hostels include
Brabantse Walpad, Oeverloperpad, Streekpad Nijmegen, Veluwe Zwerfpad, and Twentepad.
Be prepared for hiking in Netherlands with the HiiKER app
FAQs about hiking in Netherlands
In the Netherlands, the spring season (April-June) offers mild temperatures ideal for hiking, with blooming flowers enhancing the experience. Summer (July-September) can be warm but still comfortable for hiking, while autumn (October-December) brings vibrant foliage.
Winter (January-March) is usually cold with occasional snow, making it a less popular hiking season. Nonetheless, the landscape's tranquility can still be appreciated by the more adventurous.
For detailed weather information, consult the Netherlands' meteorological department's website at www.knmi.nl.
Typically, hiking in the Netherlands doesn't require permits, but some protected areas might have restrictions. For specific regulations, contact local municipalities or the Staatsbosbeheer, which manages nature reserves. Their website (www.staatsbosbeheer.nl) provides valuable information.
Wild camping is generally prohibited in the Netherlands. However, the Staatsbosbeheer provides "Paalkamperen" or "pole camping" sites for minimalist camping in nature, under certain regulations. For site locations and guidelines, refer to their website (www.staatsbosbeheer.nl).
In the event of emergencies during hikes in the Netherlands, dial the national emergency number, 112. While the country lacks mountains, its emergency services are equipped to handle accidents in outdoor settings. More safety information can be found on the government website (www.government.nl).
The Netherlands, renowned for its vibrant tulips, also features diverse forests, heathlands, and dunes. Hikers can encounter a mix of deciduous trees, diverse undergrowth, and unique bog vegetation. Visit the Staatsbosbeheer (www.staatsbosbeheer.nl) website for a comprehensive guide on Dutch flora.
In the Netherlands, hikers can spot a range of wildlife, from deer in forested areas to diverse bird species in wetlands. There's also a multitude of insects, like butterflies, to admire. The Dutch Mammal Society (www.zoogdiervereniging.nl) provides useful information on local fauna.
