Walking in the Schoorlse Duinen means choosing between woodland, high dunes, heathland, open sand and routes leading to the sea. This makes the area varied, but also more challenging than a flat walk. So start by asking yourself how much time, distance and elevation gain you’re comfortable with. Even a short route here can be enough to really experience the landscape.
Start at the Buitencentrum
The Outdoor Centre Schoorlse Duinen is the best place to start your first walk. You’ll find information about the area there, and various routes begin in the immediate vicinity. A map will help you see in advance where the woodland gives way to open dunes. Check the opening hours if you wish to collect information from the centre, but bear in mind that routes may also be accessible outside these hours, subject to the applicable area regulations.
Parking near the centre isn’t always free, and on busy days spaces fill up quickly. Arrive early or consider alternative transport options. There is a short route around the building that is more accessible for wheelchair users. Most of the longer paths are covered in sand, shells or wood chips and place greater demands on footwear, balance and fitness.
Choose between woodland, heathland and open dunes
A woodland route offers more shelter from the wind and sun. In open dunes, you’ll have more sweeping views, but the weather feels harsher. The heather adds colour to the landscape, particularly during the flowering season. By choosing one landscape as your main destination in advance, you’ll avoid planning a route that’s too long. Anyone who wants to see everything in a single day can easily underestimate the extra effort involved in climbing and walking on loose sand.
Plan a short or longer walking route
Marked circular walks of varying lengths start from the Buitencentrum. For your first visit, it’s best to choose a route that’s well within your usual walking distance. Dune paths can slow you down, and it’s not always easy to get back on track if you take a wrong turn. Download a map or route before you set off and keep an eye out for the markings along the way, especially where several paths meet.
If you’d like to go on a longer walk, a route towards the North Sea might be an attractive option. The official ‘Boswachterspad Noordzeewandeling’ trail combines the sea, dunes, woodland and heathland. Check the latest route description and any diversions in advance. Allow plenty of time for breaks and the return journey, especially outside the long summer days.
Bear the season in mind
In spring, the countryside is fresh and certain areas may require extra attention due to the breeding season. Summer brings long days, but also heat and busier starting points. In autumn, the colours and terrain change, whilst stormy weather makes the open dunes more challenging. Winter is often quiet, but paths can be wet or slippery. You should therefore always check the weather and up-to-date information about the area.
Walking a dog
Dogs are permitted in parts of the Schoorlse Duinen, but the rules vary by zone. In some areas, your dog must be kept on a lead, and dogs are not permitted in designated play areas. Follow the signs and check the information provided by Staatsbosbeheer. Bring water with you and, on hot days, choose a route through woodland. Do not let your dog stray from the path in sensitive natural areas.
Bring whatever you need for the journey
Sturdy shoes, water, a fully charged mobile phone and an extra layer of clothing are a good starting point. In open countryside, the weather can change more quickly than in the village. If you’re going on a longer walk, take something to eat with you and don’t rely solely on places to eat and drink along the way. A paper or offline map will still be useful when mobile coverage is poor.
Combine walking with cycling or a visit to the village
Not every day of your holiday has to be a long walk. Why not break up your route with a visit to Schoorl or, the next day, opt for cycling through the Schoorlse Duinen. In the overview Things to do in Schoorl You’ll find some extra ideas here. This way, you can explore the area in different ways without always following the same paths.
A seaside stay as a peaceful base
From Appartementen Parkzicht, you can plan a day trip to Schoorl and spend the rest of your time closer to the sea. On Accommodation in Bergen aan Zee Compare the available accommodation options. If you’d also like to go for a walk straight from the house, read the article about Walking in Bergen aan Zee.
Read the route map before setting off
Don’t just look at the number of kilometres, but also the starting point, the terrain and the expected elevation gain. A route that looks compact on a map can take considerably longer due to loose sand and several short climbs. Also, make a note of where you can easily shorten the route if the weather or your fitness levels aren’t up to scratch.
Use an up-to-date map from Staatsbosbeheer or reliable directions, and do not rely solely on a random route suggested by a walking app. Paths may be temporarily diverted for nature conservation, safety or to protect nesting birds. The signposts in the area should therefore be followed, even if your phone suggests a different direction.
Recovery plan after a long walk
Afterwards, take some time to have a drink, put on dry clothes and let your shoes dry out. If you want to go for another walk the next day, it’s better to choose a shorter beach route rather than tackling the same distance straight away. That way, you can see different parts of the dune area during your holiday without having to walk the maximum distance every day.
