What is Pieterpad?
Pieterpad is a 498km long trail in Netherlands. It runs from Pieterburen to St. Pietersberg = from North to South of Netherlands. You can also add a 10km loop from Pieterburen that will take you to the sea.
Where do I find more information?
The trail is maintained by Pieterpad foundation and they have very useful WEBSITE where you can find a lot of information. They also post updates to keep you posted of any developments/ changes on the trail.
On their website you can also purchase guidebook with directions or download navigation files for your gps.
What is the trail like?
The trail is really great showcase of the best Netherlands has to offer, vibrant cities as well as cozy villages. You will cross farm lands, walk on roads, walk around canals, walk through sand dunes, national parks and forrest. It is very scenic and with some points of interest that you can visit along the way.
North to South or South to North?
The trail is marked well in both direction. The intended direction is from North to South but you can do it in opposite direction as well.
How long will it take?
That depends. Most Dutch people will actually do only or few stages at the time. This will allow them for less intense experience, really take time and enjoy and make the experience last. Some people take years to fully complete the trail.
There is of course a lot of walkers that will do it in one go. The trail is split in 26 “etappes” / sections. Each is around 20km, ranging between 12-24km, but you can make your own sections. To save you some planning, the Pieterpad website lists suggested shorter or longer stages, but of course you can create the stages as you wish. Also some people don’t hike the sections in any order, that is also possible.
When can you do the trail?
You can do the trail anytime of the year. It also depends what kind of weather you prefer.
Note that in high season the trail is extremely busy, especially during weekends. This might be important factor depending on if you are searching for solitude or meeting local people and making new friends.
Summer months are times heavy on ticks, mosquitos and oak processionary caterpillars. See next point.
Winter months are wet and cold, potentially with lot of mud or even snow.
What are oak processionary caterpillars?
In 2019 Netherlands got explosion of these little evil creatures. They are fluffy caterpillars that in big groups cover oak trees. They might look interesting, even beautiful but if you spot them, run as fast as you can, especially if its windy day. The hairs of these caterpillars contain poison and in best case they will give you extremely itchy rash, but they can also cause allergic reaction or breathing problems. Netherlands has taken good measures since to prevent and eliminate them but I would like to mention them in case you spot them.
I do not speak Dutch, can I do the trail?
Absolutely. Majority of Dutch people actually speak English very well. People who do Pieterpad or cater to Pieterpad walkers along the route are very friendly and kind.
People living along Pieterpad are also helpful and they will let you know on their own in case you start walking the wrong direction or in case you need some help 🙂
I would suggest to learn or write down some words or phrases in Dutch just in case.
I do not have a lot of experience, can I do this trail?
Yes, this is actually the perfect trail for beginner hikers or someone who wants to try long distance hiking.
You can use it to learn to use navigation, especially if you are using the booklet. You will test your gear on multi-day trip.
In case you are struggling in any way, you are able to get what you need after few kilometres. Also the terrain is very easy and mostly flat with exception of some hills in the South.
Can I do the trail alone?
Absolutely. It is no issue for solo woman or man to do this trail. The trail is easy, navigation is simple. Netherlands is safe country.
If you do not wish to go alone, you can join official Facebook group “Pieterpad Wandelaars” in advance and see if there is anyone looking for a trail buddy.
Even if you do not do this, you will likely meet someone as there is a lot of people ready to chat along the way.
More about Pieterpad HERE
Official website HERE
