The best family-friendly hikes and walks in Varkensland

Varkensland offers a wide selection of routes, with over 770 easy hiking trails that are generally suitable for families. These paths allow you to explore the unique peat meadow landscape at a comfortable pace.

Yes, there are several short and easy options. For instance, the View Over Polder De Purmer – Monnickendammerrijweg loop from Ilpendam is an easy hike, just under 4 km, perfect for a quick family outing.

Varkensland is characterized by its flat peat meadow landscape, crisscrossed by numerous waterways. The trails are generally level, making them suitable for families with toddlers. You'll mostly encounter well-maintained paths through polders, offering easy walking conditions.

Absolutely. Many of the family-friendly trails in Varkensland are circular, allowing you to start and end at the same point without retracing your steps. An example is the Woodpecker nests – View of the Meadow loop from Ilpendam, which is a pleasant 6.2 km loop.

While specific parking areas vary by trailhead, Varkensland is generally accessible with parking available near villages like Ilpendam or Landsmeer, which serve as common starting points for many routes. We recommend checking the route details on komoot for specific parking suggestions for your chosen trail.

Yes, Varkensland is reasonably accessible by public transport, particularly from Amsterdam. Buses connect to nearby villages such as Ilpendam and Landsmeer, from where many family-friendly trails begin. Planning your journey in advance is advisable to ensure smooth connections.

Generally, dogs are welcome on many trails in Varkensland, but it's crucial to keep them on a leash, especially given the area's importance as a bird breeding ground. Always look for local signage regarding dog regulations to ensure you respect the wildlife and other visitors.

Spring and summer are particularly beautiful for family hikes in Varkensland, with lush green meadows and abundant birdlife. However, the flat landscape makes it enjoyable year-round, with autumn offering unique colors and winter providing a serene, crisp experience, weather permitting.

Given the open polder landscape, it can be windy, so layers are recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and waterproof outerwear is advisable, especially during cooler or wetter months. Don't forget sun protection in summer, as there's often little shade.

While Varkensland itself is primarily a nature reserve, the charming villages bordering the area, such as Broek in Waterland and Monnickendam, offer various cafes and restaurants where families can refuel after a hike. These villages are often easily reachable by bike or a short drive from many trailheads.

The komoot community highly rates Varkensland, with an average score of 4.38 stars. Hikers frequently praise the peaceful atmosphere, the unique peat meadow scenery, and the excellent birdwatching opportunities. The well-maintained, flat paths are also often highlighted as ideal for families.

For families looking for a longer adventure, the Watergang — Village and Church – Broek in Waterland Waterfront loop from Landsmeer offers a moderate 10.3 km hike. This route provides a great opportunity to explore more of the region's picturesque villages and waterfronts.