WALKING holiday in Zeeland, the netherlands
Read this article in
Ready to step into nature, breathe in the fresh sea air, and escape the everyday? Discover the ultimate walking holiday on the Dutch island of Schouwen-Duiveland—the crown jewel of Zeeland, where sea breezes, dikes, and wide skies accompany every step. Nestled between nature reserves, historical villages, and the ever-changing coastline, this tranquil corner of the Netherlands offers the perfect backdrop for a peaceful yet inspiring getaway.
This stunning island is a paradise for walkers, offering endless trails through unspoiled coastal landscapes, charming villages, and peaceful nature reserves. The Zeeuws Punthuis in Ouwerkerk—a uniquely Dutch A-framed holiday home that blends tranquility with comfort. Located in one of the island’s oldest and most picturesque villages, it's just minutes from the dikes, the beach, and stunning views over the sea. After a day of exploring by foot, come home to comfort, peace, and that unmistakable Zeeland sense of space and serenity.
Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just looking to recharge, this is more than a holiday—it’s your perfect walking escape. Lace up your boots, and let Schouwen-Duiveland do the rest.
ouwerkerk: the 1953 Flood & Nature’s Stunning Renewal
Ouwerkerk may be small, but it’s steeped in history and surrounded by natural beauty. The village still shows signs of its enduring battle with the sea, most notably the devastating flood of 1953. A visit to the Watersnoodmuseum offers a powerful insight into this pivotal moment. Afterwards, wander through the salt marshes and along the striking coastline—an unexpectedly beautiful landscape born from the very disaster that once reshaped it.
walk through A MAGICAL gnome forest
Step into a fairytale with a walk through Slot Moermond and the charming Kabouterbos near Renesse. Start at the historic castle, surrounded by peaceful woodlands, ponds, and meadows full of wildlife. Then follow the forest paths into the magical “Gnome Forest,” where hidden figures and playful details bring the woods to life. A perfect blend of nature, history, and imagination—ideal for families and nature lovers alike.
Walking the Sandy Shores of zeeland
Discover the stunning Dutch coastline with a walk along Schouwen-Duiveland’s wide, sandy beaches. Stretching between rolling dunes and the North Sea, these shores offer fresh sea air, and a true sense of space. Whether you’re strolling near Renesse, or the smaller Ouwerkerk beach, you’ll find a perfect mix of beauty and tranquility. The beaches of Schouwen-Duiveland are made for exploring—step by step.
Zierikzee BY FOOT: Exploring maritime History & dutch coastal charm
Set out on a captivating walking trip through Zierikzee, the medieval gem of Schouwen-Duiveland. With over 500 listed monuments, cobbled streets, a proud maritime past, and plenty of charming shops and cafés, this historic port town offers something for everyone. Whether you're drawn by history, enjoy a relaxed stroll, or love to browse local boutiques, Zierikzee promises a walk full of character, beauty, and old-world charm. Ready to explore?
Plompe Toren: A lost history to the sea
Experience the beauty of the North Sea coast with a walk that combines wide-open views, salty sea air, and a touch of Zeeland’s rich history. Follow the dike trails along the shoreline, where waves crash and seabirds soar, until you reach the mysterious Plompe Toren—the last remaining structure of the long-lost village of Koudekerke, swallowed by the sea. It’s a walk that blends nature, legend, and the enduring spirit of Zeeland.
A Peaceful Woodland Escape
Enjoy a peaceful escape into nature with a walk through the many forested areas on Schouwen-Duiveland. The quiet woodlands like the Gadra forest offer winding trails beneath tall trees, where sunlight filters through the canopy and birdsong fills the air. Once used for forestry and now a haven for walkers and wildlife alike, the many wooded areas around the island are perfect for a relaxing stroll or a longer nature walk.
WHERE TO STAY
The Zeeuws Punthuis holiday home in Ouwerkerk is an ideal retreat for those looking to explore the beautiful countryside of the island Schouwen-Duiveland on foot. Its central location on the island makes it a perfect base for discovering the region's natural beauty, charming villages, and coastal scenery. Just a short distance from the historic town of Zierikzee, the Zeeuws Punthuis offers easy access to a wide range of scenic walking routes that meander through picturesque landscapes, past dikes, farmlands, and along the serene coastline.
Spend your days hiking through the fresh Zeeland sea air, and return to the comfort of the Zeeuws Punthuis, where peace and calm await. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening on the terrace or unwinding indoors, this charming holiday home offers everything you need to recharge and truly relax in tranquil surroundings.
be prepared
Don’t set off on your walking holiday without these key items—they’ll help ensure comfort and safety throughout your trip.
walking MAP schouwen-duiveland
Explore Schouwen-Duiveland by foot without worry—this comprehensive map keeps you oriented at every turn.
hiking SURVIVal BRACELET
Maintain peace of mind on your hiking route through Schouwen-Duiveland with this essential kit.
binoculars
Don’t miss any detail or bird along your walking route with these amazing binoculars
17 hiking ROUTES through zeeland
Plan the perfect getaway with these excellent walking routes through Zeeland.
book your NEXT WALKING
holiday in zeeland today
Are you planning a hiking holiday in Zeeland?
Be sure to check the availability of the Zeeuws Punthuis for your preferred holiday dates. This charming accommodation is an ideal base for exploring the scenic hiking routes of the region.
If the Zeeuws Punthuis is available during your desired period, we would love to hear from you—please get in touch to confirm your booking and start planning your perfect walking getaway.
WHAT ELSE TO DO ON SCHOUWEN-DUIVELAND
WATERSPORT
Surrounded by water, Schouwen-Duiveland is a walhalla for watersport lovers. From kitesurfing to sailing, try them all!
CYCLING
Experiencing Schouwen-Duiveland by bicycle is truly a stunning way to explore the island’s magnificent nature
AND MUCH MORE!
One week at the Zeeuws Punthuis won’t be enough to see the whole island. Explore all the opportunities for an amazing holiday!
CULTURE
Discover the island’s rich maritime and countryside history, by visiting the many villages and monuments