Are you looking for a destination that’s perfect for walking—gentle enough for less experienced hikers, yet rich in charm and variety? The Netherlands might just be the answer. While it’s best known for cycling, this flat and beautiful country also offers a network of walking trails ideal for slow, immersive travel—and at the heart of it lies the Pieterpad.
Stretching for nearly 500 kilometers, this is the most famous long-distance trail in the Netherlands, running from the northern village of Pieterburen to the southern city of Maastricht. Along the way, it crosses the entire country, offering a stunning variety of landscapes—from farmlands to river valleys, rolling hills to historic towns, and of course, the iconic windmills and tulip fields.
The Pieterpad guides you through the true diversity of the Dutch landscape: from the polders and dikes near the northern coast to the forests and farmlands of the central provinces, and finally to the hills and vineyards of the south. The trail is gentle and ever-changing, offering a unique perspective on Dutch life and scenery.
We’ve divided the path into four self-guided trips, each of accessible length and designed to offer the perfect balance of walking and discovery. Each section can be walked independently or combined into a longer, enchanting journey.
Your walk begins in Pieterburen, a quiet coastal village facing the Wadden Sea. This first stretch takes you through the peaceful northern provinces of Groningen and Drenthe, with their wide fields, traditional farms, and a timeless rural atmosphere. Along the way, you’ll discover hunebedden, prehistoric megalithic tombs, and pass authentic Saxon farmhouses, windswept pastures, and traces of ancient history before entering the wooded heart of Drenthe.
This stage leads through Drenthe and into Overijssel, a region rich in contrasting landscapes. Walk through the Sallandse Heuvelrug, with its heath-covered hills and chance encounters with deer and rare birds, and then into Twente, an idyllic area dotted with windmills, traditional farmsteads, and lush woodland paths. Your journey ends in Vorden, a town known for its historic atmosphere and surrounding castles—just a short train ride from the medieval charm of Zutphen.
The landscape becomes more varied and dynamic as you continue south. Cross river valleys, pass through heathlands and small forests, and wander into charming towns and villages. You’ll walk through the Montferland woods, discover historic places like ’s-Heerenberg, and follow the Meuse River into North Limburg. The stage ends in Vierlingsbeek, a quiet riverside village perfect for unwinding after your walk.
The final leg of the Pieterpad takes you into Limburg, one of the most surprising and scenic regions in the Netherlands. Unlike the flat northern provinces, here you’ll find rolling hills, vineyards, and panoramic views—a landscape that feels almost Mediterranean. The path ends in Maastricht, a lively and sophisticated city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and exceptional gastronomy. It’s the perfect place to celebrate the end of your journey—though, as with all great adventures, you may find yourself cherishing the path more than the destination.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or new to long-distance walking, this trail offers a peaceful, immersive experience through a countryside that is beautiful, calming, and often overlooked by tourists.
Each stage of the journey is fully supported: we’ll take care of your accommodation, provide a personalized app with GPS and detailed maps, and transfer your luggage—all you have to do is walk, look around, and let yourself be surprised by the quiet, golden charm of the Netherlands.
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Nominee Best Specialist Tour Operator 2023
Touroperating
S-Cape Countryside Travels srl
Borgo Allegri 16R
50122 Firenze FI
P. IVA 05227330486
