Hiking in Rotterdam: A Guide to the Best Trails

While Rotterdam is often associated with its bustling city life and maritime history, it also has a green side. The city and its surroundings offer several great hiking trails for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

1. Rotterdamse Watergang

Location

• Starting point: near the Oostvoorne village entrance.
• Ending point: back at the starting point or further along to other nearby villages, depending on the route chosen.

Description

The Rotterdamse Watergang (Water Channel of Rotterdam) is a 45 km hiking trail that starts and ends in the outskirts of Rotterdam. It’s named after the water channels it follows. The route takes you through woodlands and alongside canals and rivers, providing a unique perspective on the city’s natural environment.

Features

• Wooded sections provide shade during warmer months.
• Several villages along the way offer opportunities to rest, eat, or drink at local cafes.

2. Meijendel Forest

Location

• Located just north of Rotterdam.
• Easily accessible by car or public transportation.

Description

The Meijendel Forest is a large area of woodland near Rotterdam that’s perfect for hiking and nature observation. The forest offers several marked trails, each with its own characteristics. From the dense woodlands to open clearings, there’s plenty to see.

Features

• Variety of wildlife and birds can be observed.
• Picnic areas are available throughout the forest.

3. Hoek van Holland

Location

• Situated on the coast of Rotterdam.
• Accessible by car or public transportation, with a short walk to reach the coastal path.

Description

The Hoek van Holland area is known for its scenic coastline and beaches. For hikers, the highlight is the coastal path that runs along the seafront. This route offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and the surrounding dunes.

Features

• The area has a mix of sandy beach and rocky shoreline.
• It’s an excellent spot for photography due to the changing light conditions.

These are just a few examples of the best hiking areas in Rotterdam, offering a range of experiences from scenic coastal paths to woodlands with wildlife viewing opportunities. Whether you’re interested in exploring urban green spaces or venturing into nature reserves, Rotterdam has something for every type of hiker.