The Pieterpad runs the length of the Netherlands from the village of Pieterburen on the northern Wadden coast to the Sint-Pietersberg hill above Maastricht in the far south, crossing polders, heathland, river valleys and the country's only real hills.
Route map
Terrain
Almost entirely flat for the first two-thirds through Groningen, Drenthe and the river region, with gentle hills only appearing in Limburg near the end. Easy, well-maintained paths throughout and clearly waymarked with red-and-white markers.
Tips
Because it's so flat and well served by trains, the Pieterpad is popular to walk in day-stage weekends over a year or two rather than in one continuous trip. Accommodation is plentiful along almost the whole route. A good option for a first long-distance trail given the easy terrain.
Permits & access
No permits required.