Best of Pieterpad North: Pieterburen - Zuidlaren

Duration: 5 days
Trails: T2 trails
Distance: 15 - 20 km per day
Ascent per day: 0 - 250 m ascent per day

> Walk the first 3 stages of the legendary Pieterpad
> From the Wadden Sea coast to the forests of Drenthe
> Overnight stays in carefully selected accommodation

This 5-day adventure takes you along the northernmost section of the Pieterpad, the most iconic long-distance trail in the Netherlands. Starting in Pieterburen on the Wadden Sea, you will walk three scenic stages through the tranquil Groningen countryside and on into the lush green heart of Drenthe, finally reaching your destination in Zuidlaren.

You’ll pass through charming villages and open farmland on your way to historic places like Winsum and Groningen, which was named the best cycling city in the world — and is just as nice to explore on foot. At the end of each day, you can relax in comfortable local hotels or guesthouses. With accommodation included before and after the trail, this is a worry-free way to experience the best of the northern Pieterpad route.

Itinerary

Day
1

Arrival Day

Duration: 03:10 h
Distance: 12.3 km
Ascent: 20 m
Descent: 20 m

Welcome to Pieterburen! This charming village on the Wadden Sea is the official starting point of the Pieterpad, the Netherlands' most iconic long-distance trail. After checking into your accommodation, why not take a stroll through the village and enjoy an evening meal in one of the local cafés? Make sure you get plenty of rest, as your adventure begins tomorrow!

Dorpslogement (Pieterburen)

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Dorpslogement (Pieterburen)
Dorpslogement (Pieterburen)
Day
2

Pieterburen - Winsum

Duration: 03:06 h
Distance: 12.3 km
Ascent: 20 m
Descent: 20 m

Your Pieterpad journey begins in Pieterburen, just a few steps from the Wadden Sea. After leaving the village, you will soon find yourself surrounded by open countryside. This flat, wide landscape is criss-crossed by dikes, streams, and quiet farm roads. Welcome to the north!

En route, you will pass Eenrum, a village renowned for its historic church and traditional mustard mill. Shortly afterwards, you will see the De Hollands Welvaart windmill, the perfect place to stop and take photos. The trail then continues past tranquil grasslands.

After about 12 kilometres, you will arrive in Winsum, voted the most beautiful village in the Netherlands. With its canal, cafés, and old brick houses, it's a lovely place to spend the night. You have now completed the first stage and officially begun the Pieterpad!

Cabiner Basecamp (Winsum)

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Cabiner Basecamp (Winsum)
Cabiner Basecamp (Winsum)
Day
3

Winsum - Groningen

Duration: 04:00 h
Distance: 15.8 km
Ascent: 20 m
Descent: 20 m

Today’s stage will take you from the charming village of Winsum to the vibrant city of Groningen. It’s a stage full of contrasts, taking you from tranquil canals and expansive farmland to bustling city streets.

The route starts alongside tranquil waterways and lush green embankments. You can expect to see the characteristic Groningen landscape of flat fields and big skies, with the occasional church tower in the distance. Pass through Sauwerd and Adorp, enjoying the tranquillity of the countryside, before reaching the outskirts of these towns.

Soon, the rural path gives way to cycle paths and canals. Before long, the Martini Tower will appear above the rooftops, indicating that the city centre of Groningen is near. You will finish your walk in the heart of this lively university town, renowned for its cafés, cultural scene and relaxed atmosphere.

After a day of walking, it's time to enjoy city life. Grab a drink on a terrace and take in the contrast. You've earned it!

Bamboo Lodge (Groningen)

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Bamboo Lodge (Groningen)
Bamboo Lodge (Groningen)
Day
4

Groningen - Zuidlaren

Duration: 05:10 h
Distance: 20.3 km
Ascent: 40 m
Descent: 40 m

The final stage of your Pieterpad North adventure will take you from the cityscape of Groningen to the peaceful greenery of the village of Zuidlaren. It’s a gentle transition from urban bustle to rural calm, with nature gradually taking over.

As you leave Groningen behind, you will soon find yourself following the Hoornse Diep, with windmills and water views guiding you south. The route then winds past the lake at Paterswoldsemeer, through scenic forests and across open spaces. Keep an eye out for birdlife and the tranquil huts of the Friescheveen nature reserve in the distance, a favourite spot for locals.

Near the village of Glimmen, the route leads you through colourful meadows and along narrow forest trails. Pass historic farms, small streams and quiet lanes as you enter the province of Drenthe.

Turning northwards, you will arrive in the pretty village of Zuidlaren, which is known for its green commons and traditional atmosphere. Congratulations, you've completed the Pieterpad North!

Hotel B&B Hoeve de Vredenhof (Zuidlaren)

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Hotel B&B Hoeve de Vredenhof (Zuidlaren)
Hotel B&B Hoeve de Vredenhof (Zuidlaren)
Day
5

Departure Day

Having completed the northern section of the Pieterpad, it’s time to say goodbye. Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and perhaps take one last stroll through this charming village. Whether you're heading home or exploring more of the Netherlands, you'll leave with fresh legs and great memories. Tot ziens!

Included

  • Accommodation

    We will arrange your accommodation on the Pieterpad in hotels, inns, and guesthouses. Accommodation will be private in single, double or twin rooms and with en-suite bathroom where possible.

  • Full travel guide

    You’ll receive access to our trekking app, which serves as your complete digital travel guide for the Pieterpad. Inside, you’ll find everything you need for your trek: route descriptions, hiking maps, navigation support, payment information, and all the key details specific to your journey.

  • Breakfast

    Breakfast is, if possible, included in this trek and it will be provided every morning at your accommodation.

  • Navigation support

    Our trekking app also includes built-in navigation support. With GPS-based maps and offline access, you can follow the trail confidently and stay on route even without mobile signal.

Excluded

  • Traveling to and from

    You have to make your own way to the starting point. The total amount does not include personal transport. This also applies to any transport from the end point of your trail.

  • Transfers

    If you require any form of public or local transport during the trek, it is not included in the package unless stated otherwise. This applies to taxis, buses, cable cars, gondolas, and similar services.

  • Travel Insurance

    Your international travel insurance is your own responsibility. Discuss your itinerary with the insurance company before your trek.

  • Lunch and Dinner

    Breakfast is, if possible, included in the price of the trek. You can get lunch and dinner at the shops, hotels, and restaurants along the way.

FAQ

  • How to Get To the Starting Point of the Pieterpad North

  • End point: Zuidlaren

  • What if the dates I want are not available?

  • If I book now, can I immediately arrange the rest of my trip?

  • How do I know if this trek is right for me?

How to Book

  • Booking

  • Availability

  • Cancellation policy