There are many ways to go for a walk in Bergen aan Zee. You can take a short stroll through the village, walk for kilometres along the coast, or choose a route through the North Holland Dune Reserve. The landscape changes rapidly, and so does the weather at times. So decide in advance how much time you’d like to spend and what elevation gain you’re comfortable with, but leave room to adjust your plans along the way.
Walking along the beach
A walk along the beach at Bergen aan Zee It requires little preparation. Choose a beach access point, walk along the high-water mark and turn back when you’ve gone far enough. Bear in mind the wind direction and the tide. A gentle walk out with the wind at your back often means a tougher walk back. It’s usually easier to walk on wet, firm sand than on loose sand further up the beach.
In summer, an early morning walk is often quieter than one in the middle of the day. In autumn and winter, the same route takes on a completely different character due to the wind, clouds and higher waves. On warm days, always take an extra layer with you. If you’d like some specific advice on what to wear for a walk by the sea, do read our guide to A walk along the beach in Bergen aan Zee.
Follow the village walk
The village walk is ideal if, as well as nature, you’d like to see a bit of the seaside resort. There are short, longer and extended versions. The short route is more accessible than the longer ones, which feature greater elevation changes and unpaved sections. Along the way, you’ll pass places that recall the development of Bergen aan Zee and you can combine the walk with a visit to one of the local cafés or restaurants or the Zee Aquarium.
The route is also pleasant on a day with changeable weather. You stay closer to the village and can cut the route short more easily than on a long walk through the nature reserve. Check the latest route information in advance and follow the signposts when you’re there. A map downloaded onto your phone comes in handy if mobile coverage is patchy along the way.
Head into the North Holland Dune Reserve
To the south of the village lies the North Holland Dune Reserve. The area consists of dunes, woods and paths with varying surfaces. A dune pass is compulsory for visitors aged 18 and over. You can purchase this in advance online or at designated sales points and ticket machines. Please also check the signs at the entrance, as rest areas and temporary closures may change depending on the season.
For your first walk, it’s best to choose a clear, signposted route rather than a long series of separate paths. The changes in elevation make a walk in the dunes more strenuous than the same distance on flat ground. Take water with you and wear shoes with good grip. In open dunes there may be little shelter, whilst wooded areas tend to stay wet for longer after rain.
Walking a dog
Dogs are allowed on various routes, but the same rules do not apply everywhere. Check with PWN and the signs to see which areas are accessible and where dogs must be kept on a lead. On the beach, too, the rules vary depending on the season and time of day. By checking this in advance, you’ll avoid having to turn back at an entrance or unexpectedly having to find a different route.
If you are staying with a dog at Appartementen Parkzicht, please state this in your enquiry. Dogs are welcome in suitable accommodation, subject to an additional charge. The location of a studio or flat can make a practical difference. Therefore, please consider not only the walking area, but also which accommodation is most conveniently situated for your daily walks.
Choose the season that suits you best
Spring brings fresh greenery and often quiet paths. In summer, the days are long, but the beach and town centre are busier. Autumn is ideal for brisk walks and rapidly changing skies. In winter, you’ll find plenty of space, although the wind and cold are more pronounced. So you can go for a walk all year round, as long as your clothing, the distance and the route are suited to the conditions.
Combine walking with Bergen or Schoorl
If you’d like to see more of the countryside during your holiday, why not plan a walk around Bergen or in the Schoorlse Duinen. The article on walking in the Schoorlse Duinen helps you choose a suitable route. This way, you can spread your visits to the beach, the village, the woods and the higher dune areas over several days.
Accommodation along the walking routes
Appartementen Parkzicht are situated close to the beach and dunes. This means you can go for a short morning walk from your accommodation without having to use the car first. On the page Accommodation in Bergen aan Zee Compare the studios, the flat and the Parkhuisje. Above all, choose a layout and floor that you’ll find comfortable after an active day.
Plan your walk practically
Just before setting off, check the weather, the access rules and any ongoing works in the nature reserve. Let someone know which longer route you’re taking and make sure your phone is fully charged. Even if you’re only planning a short walk, it’s a good idea to take a small rucksack with water, something to eat, sun protection and a dry layer.
If you’re planning several days of walking in a row, start off gently. Alternate a hike with an elevation gain with a flat walk along the beach or a stroll around the village. That way, you’ll have enough energy left to explore the area throughout your stay.
