The Noord-Hollandpad is a remarkable long-distance walking route that starts on the beautiful island of Texel and continues to the green surroundings of the Gooi. The trail has a total length of 284 kilometers and is divided into 16 stages, varying from 10 to 25 kilometers. This path offers walkers the opportunity to experience the diversity of nature and culture in the Netherlands, all within the boundaries of one province. The Noord-Hollandpad is often referred to as the “Pieterpad of Noord-Holland,” and for good reason.
You pass through so many different landscapes and environments that you might be amazed it all fits within one province. You start on Texel, an island, making it unique to end your journey on the mainland. This walking path is marked in both directions; you can also finish on Texel and add a few extra days to your trip.
Texel is the only Wadden Island that belongs to the province of Noord-Holland and should certainly not be missed on this remarkable long-distance walking route.
As mentioned, the markings have two different colors. Yellow marks indicate the route from north to south, while blue indicates south to north. You can also follow this route by following the numbers of the walking junction network.
The path leads you past various natural elements that make the Netherlands so special. From the moment you start on Texel, surrounded by the sea and the unique Wadden area, to the green meadows and vast heathlands in the Gooi, each stage offers something unique. You walk along the coastline, through dunes, and over dikes that provide beautiful views. The diversity of landscapes ensures you never get bored and continuously discover new places.
Along the Noord-Hollandpad, you often walk near or along water. The path winds through picturesque polders with many ditches, giving you the chance to experience the beauty of Dutch waters. The dunes encountered in parts of the route not only offer stunning views but also a rich flora and fauna. Listen and watch, and you can even hear the silence of nature, despite being in the Randstad of the Netherlands.
Another feature of the Noord-Hollandpad is the sheep that often graze in the meadows. These animals are a typical part of the Dutch landscape and contribute to the charm of the route. If you walk during spring, the lambs may happily hop along with you after initially eyeing you suspiciously. Additionally, you walk along farm paths that take you through the heart of Noord-Holland’s agricultural areas. This gives you a chance to see the rural lifestyle up close, with vast fields and traditional farms on either side of the path.
One of the highlights of the Noord-Hollandpad is the opportunity to explore the famous flower bulb fields. In spring, these fields bloom spectacularly, with tulips, hyacinths, and daffodils creating a colorful display. The fragrance and colors are a true delight for the senses, making the walk even more special. Please respect the grower; you are not allowed to enter the land unless indicated otherwise. You may see many pictures of people standing in the middle of the fields, but that is not desired without permission.
In addition to natural beauty, the Noord-Hollandpad also offers a rich cultural experience. The route takes you through various historical villages, each with its own character and charm. Here, you can enjoy authentic Dutch architecture, atmospheric squares, and local shops.
The iconic Dutch windmills (not to be confused with modern wind turbines) are also an integral part of the Noord-Hollandpad. These impressive structures are not only beautiful to see but have also played an important role in the country’s history. Even today, some are still in use or being restored to preserve this history. Along the way, you will encounter various windmills and pumps that teach you more about water management in the Netherlands and the fight against water.
The route is also crossed by several ferries, which are a traditional way to cross rivers and canals. These ferries add a playful element to the walk and are a fun way to experience the transition between different landscapes. Before you go walking, make sure to check if the ferry you wish to take is operating that day.
The birds breeding season is a special time of year, even for walkers exploring the Noord-Hollandpad. In the Netherlands, the breeding season usually runs from March to July. During these months, many birds are active in building nests, laying eggs, and caring for their young. This is a crucial time for birds as they prepare for reproduction and raising their offspring. During this period, parts of the Noord-Hollandpad are closed, and you must use an alternative route. Be sure to read about the correct route before you start walking to avoid surprises.
The Noord-Hollandpad passes through Den Helder, a city with a rich maritime history and the main naval base of the Netherlands. While walking this stage of the route, you will not only experience the beauty of the coastline and dunes but also catch a glimpse of the Dutch Navy, with impressive ships and military buildings. Den Helder is located at the northern tip of the province, where the North Sea and the Wadden Sea meet, offering stunning sea views.
The 16 stages of the path are carefully laid out to provide the best views and experiences. Each stage offers a variety of distances and terrains, making the path accessible for walkers of all levels. The stages are well-marked, allowing you to navigate easily.
Below are all the stages en kilometers as described on the website and in the hiking guide
| De Cocksdorp – De Waal | 19 |
| De Waal – Den Helder | 19 |
| Den Helder – Julianadorp | 16 |
| Julianadorp – Wieringerwaard | 13 |
| Wieringerwaard – Kolhorn | 10 |
| Den Oever – De Haukes | 13 |
| De Haukes – Kolhorn | 17 |
| Kolhorn – Obdam | 22 |
| Obdam – Schermerhorn | 13 |
| Schermerhorn – Akersloot | 15 |
| Akersloot – Krommenie | 15 |
| Krommenie – Halfweg | 25 |
| Halfweg – Ouderkerk aan de Amstel | 25 |
| Ouderkerk aan de Amstel – Abcoude | 24 |
| Abcoude – ’s Graveland | 17 |
| ‘s Graveland – Huizen | 15 |
Our Photos
We take photos with our phone, mirrorless camera, or compact camera. We don’t edit our experience photos with colors or filters; all the colors you see are exactly as we observed them.
A Walking Pin
Would you like a walking pin as a souvenir of this hiking route? You can click here.
Other Hikes
If you’d like to read more about our hikes, check out our overview page.
Route – GPS
For all information about the stages, the hiking guide (in Dutch), or the GPS route, visit this website.
Subscribe to our newsletters and miss no promotions, new collections or blogs!