Hiking in autumn

Summer has given way to autumn, and what a wonderful time this is to get out and about! Nature adorns itself in warm shades of gold, orange and red. Autumn is perhaps the most beautiful season for hiking – no scorching sun, no annoying insects, just that wonderful fresh air that fills your lungs with energy.

Get out and about

There is something magical about hiking when the leaves are falling. The gentle rustling under your feet, the fresh air and that special light falling through the bare branches. Walking in autumn is not only good for your body, but also for your mind. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful colors lower your stress hormones and strengthen your immune system.

A walk by the sea

The Hague coast

The Dutch coast shows its best side in autumn. No busy beachgoers, but that wonderful salty air that wakes you up completely. Kijkduin near The Hague is an absolute must – you can walk around for hours and even walk all the way to Scheveningen. After such a brisk walk on the beach, you can warm up in one of the cozy restaurants on the Boulevard.

From Kijkduin towards the south you will discover De Zandmotor, a unique nature reserve that is still developing. This artificial sandbank is a fascinating example of ‘building with nature’ and offers hikers a special landscape where seals are regularly spotted.

Westland tranquility

For those looking for more peace and quiet, we can recommend the smaller beaches of Westland. Monster, Ter Heijde and ‘s-Gravenzande offer beautiful, quiet beach walks. A special feature is that from Monster you can walk all the way to the Sand Motor – a trip well worth the effort!

North Holland sea air

North Holland also has wonderful autumn walks along the coast. Egmond aan Zee is not called the most beautiful beach in the Netherlands for nothing. During low tide, small seas form through which you can luxuriate. Castricum aan Zee offers a cozy atmosphere and is perfect for a long beach walk, with plenty of parking and cozy beach bars open all year round.

Walking in the woods

Clingendaal in The Hague

Between The Hague and Wassenaar you will find Park Clingendaal, a true paradise for autumn lovers. This wooded park shows itself from its best side in autumn, with a natural look where fallen trees sometimes just stay. The sloping paths lead you past historic bunkers – there are even two! – which in winter serve as winter quarters for bats. And twice a year you can enjoy the beautiful Japanese Garden here, which has limited public access due to the fragility of the plants.

Utrecht Hill Ridge

The Kaapse Bossen near Utrecht offer a perfect combination of forest and view. The 25-meter-high watchtower De Kaap gives you a spectacular panorama of autumn colors. There are several hiking trails, including wheelchair-accessible paths that are also perfect for strollers.

Veluwe splendor

National Park Veluwezoom and the Hoge Veluwe are true autumn classics. The diversity of landscapes – from vast moorlands to dense forests – makes for a varied walk. At lookout point De Posbank you can rest and enjoy the view, while on the Elsbrug you have a chance to spot red deer.

Adventurous autumn walks

The Naardermeer Boot Trail

For the truly adventurous there is the Naardermeer Boot Path. This 6.5-kilometer hike takes you over boardwalks right through marshland – boots really are indispensable here! It is a unique experience to walk so close to the water through this protected nature reserve.

Drenthe adventure

In Drenthe, the Hondsrug with its varied landscapes awaits. The meandering waters of the Drentse Aa have created a special landscape here, complete with centuries-old Saxon farms. The area offers not only beautiful walks, but also adventure for children in Speelbos Lorken and a spectacular treetop trail.

Hiking with children

Children can experience autumn in a very special way. In the Harderbos near Zeewolde, little ones can discover the Dwaalbos, where they have to follow the yellow breadcrumbs of Hansel and Gretel. Older children can participate in the Adventure Route and follow the beaver’s footsteps.

Natuurmonumenten organizes the Oerrr events especially for children, also in autumn. From wandering with the forest ranger to a tour along tawny owls and pellets – there is always a fun and educational program.

Shifting sands

For those who want something completely different, there are the Dutch shifting sands. Kootwijkerzand in the Veluwe is the largest in the Netherlands – a true desert landscape where you can wander for hours without meeting anyone. Aekingerzand near the Drents Friese Wold offers peace and quiet amid pine trees and heathland.

De Loonse en Drunense Duinen in North Brabant are also unique – 4000 acres of vast sandy plains, forests and even swamps. A true adventure in the middle of the Netherlands!

Walk and enjoy

The Netherlands offers an unparalleled variety of hiking opportunities in autumn. Whether you choose a brisk beach walk along the coast, a fragrant forest walk among the fallen leaves, or an adventurous trek through the shifting sands, hike and enjoy!

Credit’s photos: OpstapmetLisa and Canva.com