NL
The Netherlands offers dozens of well-marked walking routes that are perfect for those just starting out. You can find the most beautiful routes of 5 to 10 kilometres in forested nature areas with minimal elevation changes and clear signage. The Utrechtse Heuvelrug offers peace and quiet, the Sallandse Heuvelrug provides variety, and Lutterzand offers vastness. All over the Netherlands, it is easy to head out on a trail without extensive preparation. Discover the best places for a beginner walker to start and what makes each route special.
Why these routes are ideal for beginners
A suitable beginner’s route is short enough to complete without overexertion, well-signposted, and easily accessible. That makes a walk straightforward and, above all, enjoyable. Routes of 5 to 10 kilometres are long enough to enjoy nature, but not so exhausting that you lose the fun of it. Moreover, many beginner-friendly routes in the Netherlands have clear start and end points, often with parking facilities or a train station nearby.
Well-maintained paths and quiet environments help with your first steps. This means: no technically difficult mountain paths, but clear forest roads, heathlands, and paved sections. It is precisely this combination that makes walking in the Netherlands accessible. Would you like to learn more about how to plan a comfortable walking experience? You will find detailed information in our walking holidays section.
The terrain also plays an important role. Paved paths and forest roads are easier to walk on than sandy dunes or hilly terrain. The choice of the type of path makes the difference between an energetic start and a tired return journey. Resting spots along the way, such as catering establishments or benches, also make a route more suitable for beginners.
‘ Those small climbs aren’t exhausting, but are fun enough to keep the walk interesting. ’
Utrechtse Heuvelrug: quiet forest with gently rolling paths
The Utrechtse Heuvelrug attracts thousands of walkers every year, mainly because of its varied environment and accessibility. Many routes run through dense forests with soft sandy paths and small elevation changes. Those small climbs aren’t exhausting, but are fun enough to keep the walk interesting.
Popular starting points are Amerongen, Leersum, and Doorn. Multiple signposted routes between 5 and 10 kilometres depart from these places. You can park at the various access gates of Staatsbosbeheer (State Forestry Service), where you can often also find information boards with route maps. The routes are accessible all year round and combine forest with open heathlands.
Highly recommended is the Amerongse Berg route, a circular walk of approximately 7 kilometres that takes you through dense pine forests and past heathland areas. The route is well-marked and has no steep sections. Along the way, you will come across viewpoints where you can take a short break. From Utrecht, you can reach this area within 30 minutes by car, and within an hour from Amsterdam.
Sallandse Heuvelrug: short walks in a characteristic heath landscape
The Sallandse Heuvelrug in Overijssel offers vast heathlands and forests with well-maintained walking routes. The area is particularly spectacular in August, when the heather is in bloom. However, it is suitable for a walk all year round. The routes are well-marked and vary in length from short loops of 5 kilometres to longer treks of 10 kilometres.
You can easily start a short route from Holten or Nijverdal. Both places have ample parking and are connected to the cycling and walking network. The routes are flat to gently rolling, making them pleasant to walk without too much effort. The area is easily accessible by car via the A1 and also by train, with stations in Nijverdal and Holten.
A beginner-friendly choice is the Holterberg circular walk of approximately 6 kilometres. This route runs past forest, heath, and a few quiet pools. The paths are wide and stable, ideal if you are just starting out. There are plenty of resting spots along the way, and in Holten itself, you will find places to eat and drink for a cup of coffee afterwards.
Lutterzand: vast nature with flat paths
Lutterzand is located in Twente and is known for its varied landscape with forests, heathlands, and sand drifts. The area offers several short walking routes suitable for beginners. The paths are often sandy, but wide and easily passable. Due to the flat terrain, walking here is not strenuous, allowing you to easily set your own pace.
You can start at the car park on the Lutterzandweg, where there are information boards with route maps. The routes vary from 4 to 9 kilometres and run through different types of landscapes. The area is quiet and not overgrown, which makes it easy to navigate.
The 8-kilometre Lutterzand route is a good first walk. You walk through dense forests, across open heathland, and past a small pool. The route is marked with posts, and there are plenty of places to stop for a break. You can reach this spot within 20 minutes by car from Enschede or Oldenzaal.
‘ Good walking shoes are no luxury, even for short routes. ’
What to bring for your first walk
Even for a short walk of 5 to 10 kilometres, it is wise to bring a small backpack. In it, you should at least pack water, a light snack, and possibly a rain jacket. Even in good weather, the weather can change quickly, especially in open areas like heathland.
Good walking shoes are no luxury, even for short routes. They offer grip and support, which helps to prevent blisters and fatigue. Sports shoes can also work, but check that they have enough tread for sandy paths and forest roads.
A route map or a walking app on your phone helps prevent you from getting lost. Many routes are well-marked, but a backup is always handy. Download the route in advance so that you can find your way even without an internet connection.
How to plan your first walking route
Start by choosing a destination that is easily accessible. Look at the distance from your home and whether there is parking or a train station nearby. That saves hassle on the day itself.
Check the length of the route, and if in doubt, choose a shorter walk. Better too short than too long, especially if you don’t yet know how a certain distance feels. Routes of 5 kilometres take an average of 1 to 1.5 hours. Routes of 10 kilometres take about 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace and the number of stops.
Also check the weather and the conditions. In wet weather, sandy paths can be harder to walk on and the chance of mud is greater. If it is raining, choose a route with paved sections or postpone the walk. Most Dutch walking areas are accessible all year round, but comfort makes all the difference.
Practical tips for a pleasant start
Do not start too early if you are still learning to walk. A steady pace works better than an over-ambitious plan. Listen to your body and take breaks when needed. Walking is not a race.
Opt for a circular walk instead of an out-and-back route. That makes the trip more varied and you don’t have to return along the same path. Most signposted routes in the Netherlands are circular, which makes planning easier.
Take your phone with you with a full battery. That gives you peace of mind and you can take photos or check the route along the way. Let people at home know where you are going, especially if you are walking alone.
‘ at Traveler Tips you will discover everything you need to plan your next trip. ’
Discover more on Traveler Tips
The best walking routes for beginners are just the beginning of what the Netherlands has to offer. On our website, you will also find in-depth information about longer routes, multi-day hiking trips, nature reserves, and preparation for specific seasons. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or an extensive walking holiday: at Traveler Tips you will discover everything you need to plan your next trip. Browse the website and get inspired by the possibilities.
Frequently asked questions
For beginners, short circular walks (5–10 km) on the Veluwe, the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, in flat polders, and in coastal and dune areas are easily accessible, as start points are often located at visitor centres or villages. These places usually have ample parking at nature car parks or recreation areas, sometimes for a small fee. Many start points are also located near bus stops or (in larger nature reserves) near train stations, making it easy to start even by public transport. Preferably choose circular walks with a clearly indicated starting point at a car park or public transport stop to keep logistics as simple as possible.
Most beginner routes in the Netherlands are flat, well-marked, and between 5 and 10 kilometres long. With a relaxed walking pace, you can count on approximately 1.5 to 3 hours of walking, depending on breaks and your speed. Routes in flat polders, forest areas, or on the Veluwe and Utrechtse Heuvelrug are generally the easiest. Allow a little more time for routes in dunes or slightly hilly terrain, as sand and elevation changes make them more strenuous.
Along the recommended walking routes, you will often find practical rest areas such as benches and clear start and end points at car parks or villages. In many nature reserves, such as the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, catering establishments (pavilions, cafés, or visitor centres) are located at or very near the route. Beach bars and kiosks are also available as a resting spot along more popular coastal and dune routes. Toilets are usually found at visitor centres, catering venues, or larger parking facilities, not everywhere directly along the path.
Yes, many routes can be easily combined with nearby villages, castles, or nature reserves, so you can easily turn them into a full day trip. On the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, for example, there are often shorter walking routes near visitor centres, observation towers, or estates with catering facilities. Coastal and dune routes can be easily combined with a visit to a seaside town or promenade. In flat polders and river areas, you can combine walking with a visit to a historic city centre or a small museum nearby.
Beginner-friendly routes with the most beautiful nature are mainly found in the forests and heathlands of the Veluwe and the Utrechtse Heuvelrug, where short, well-marked circular walks of 5–10 km provide plenty of variety and peace. Coastal and dune walks also offer impressive vistas and a unique open landscape, provided you take the wind and sand into account. In the flat polders and river areas, you can enjoy panoramic views along the water and dykes, ideal for a relaxing first longer walk. For those wanting just a little bit more, the gently rolling routes in South Limburg are beautiful, but are better as a second step after a truly easy start.
