Uncover the enchantment of winter with Wild Way! While our thrilling events await in March and April, embark on self-guided Winter Hikes now. More than walks, they're gateways to a refreshed body and mind. Join Wild Way's community for joyful, nature-connected adventures. Your journey begins—embracing playfulness, personal growth, and the pure delight of the outdoors.
1. Rijsterbos Chronicles: A Mythical Journey Through Time and Nature
Embark on an enchanting journey through the Rijsterbos in Gaasterland, where nature's wonders and centuries-old folk legends intertwine. Established in 1676, this picturesque forest reveals a rich tapestry of stories, including headless ghosts, vindictive witches, and wandering spirits. Gaasterland's cliffs add an extra layer to its diversity, with the red cliff believed to be a gathering place for mystical beings.
Commence your exploration with the historical V2 walk, uncovering the forest's role during World War II. Managed by It Fryske Gea, the Rijsterbos invites you to connect with folklore through the Sint-Odulphuspad pilgrimage route and the engaging Hippe Heksen en Paddenstoelenpad for younger adventurers.
2. Embark on an Enchanting Odyssey: Roman Limes Trail Unveiled
Embark on an enchanting sojourn along the Roman Limes Trail, a 275-kilometer odyssey tracing the historical Neder-Germaanse Limes. Unfurling from Katwijk aan Zee to Millingen aan de Rijn, this immersive venture guides you through the heart of the Netherlands. Traverse the corridors of history, echoing footsteps from Katwijk to Millingen aan de Rijn.
3. Texel's Winter Tale: Achter de Geul Unveiled
Embark on a winter sojourn through Texel's hidden gem—Achter de Geul. This enchanted trail, nestled in the heart of Texel Dunes National Park, invites wanderers from September to March. Traverse cormorant-abandoned nests, witness remnants of cormorant colonies, and tread the historic Poterspaadje and Blinde Kippenpad.
Join this Texel odyssey, where winter whispers tales of magic in the serene embrace of Achter de Geul.
4. Winter Wonderland at Veluwezoom: Lappendeken Carolinahoeve Expedition
Embark on a captivating winter journey through the stateliness of National Park Veluwezoom. This 5 km trail, a 1 hour and 40-minute sojourn, weaves through majestic beech lanes, offering a glimpse into a world transformed by frost. Find solace and warmth at the Carolinahoeve, where a steaming cup of pea soup or mulled wine awaits. Discover the subtle traces left by wild boars as you traverse this winter wonderland.
Experience the joyous abandon of an outdoor playground, climb the crest of Rouwenberg, and explore the history of the Haverkist. Veluwezoom reveals its winter enchantment, each step resonating with echoes of eras long past.
5. Mystical Wonders: Kaapse Bossen Adventure Unveiled
Embark on a captivating 5.05 km journey through the enchanting Kaapse Bossen on the Utrechtse Heuvelrug near Doorn. This family-friendly forest trek offers engaging activities like an observation tower, climbing trees, distinctive stones, and sandy play areas.
Commence your journey at the parking lot of Kaapse Bossen, located at Leersumsestraatweg, 3941 MK Doorn (UT). As you traverse the route, you'll quickly notice the Utrechtse Heuvelrug terrain, with the path ascending rapidly. The gaps alongside the path prevent soil erosion during heavy rain, retaining essential water for the dry forest floor. A robust spruce that fell in the early '90s is now a climbing haven, with roots exhibiting numerous small holes created by beetles and other wood-loving insects.
At the crossroads of beech lanes, you'll encounter four concrete foundations of the former Houten Kaap observation tower, erected around 1932 and standing until 1970. A popular attraction in the '30s, it required admission. Old woodpecker holes adorn a dead beech behind the bench, adding a touch of historical intrigue.
Navigate the red-marked trail and uncover the hidden gems that make Kaapse Bossen an immersive blend of natural wonders and historical remnants.
(Note: picture from the book, Back to Nature, shot by Maarten Groen)