Kootwijkerzand Orange Trail (3.2 km)

The Kootwijkerzand is the largest area of drifting sand in western Europe, a stretch of open dunes on the Veluwe, the large wooded ridge in the middle of the Netherlands. It looks so unlike the usual Dutch scenery that first-time visitors often compare it to a desert. Its origins are rooted in human history. In the Middle Ages and later, heavy grazing and tree-cutting stripped the vegetation from the sandy soil, and wind began to move the sand freely. Later foresters planted pines to fix the dunes, but the Kootwijkerzand is one of the places where the sand has been kept open, and it is now managed as a nature reserve.

The Orange Trail is a short, marked walk through this landscape, roughly three kilometres in length. It is the easiest of the walking routes in the area and is suitable for families and casual walkers, with the main interest in the contrast between pale sand, dark pine forest and heathland. The route crosses open dunes and rises gently over low ridges, giving broad views in every direction. In places the sand is soft and walking is slow, so a pair of sturdy shoes is a good idea. Longer routes are available for those who want more, including a longer loop and a trail of around eighteen kilometres, which suit people who want to spend the day.

The nature around the sands has a lot to offer. Heather flowers in late summer and turns the heath purple, and animals such as deer, foxes and wild boar live in the surrounding woods, though they tend to be shy and are most often seen at dawn or dusk. Birds of open habitats nest in the heath, and the sand itself supports specialised insects. The conservation work here includes keeping the sand open, because without management the area would gradually be taken over by trees and grass.

At the edge of the sands stands Radio Kootwijk, a former long-distance radio station built in the 1920s to connect the Netherlands with its colonies. Its grand, art deco-influenced building makes a striking contrast to the empty dunes and is worth a look. The forest ranger's lodge, Boswachterij Kootwijk, serves as the starting point for routes and information.

The trail suits families, walkers and photographers, especially at sunrise or sunset, when low light stretches long shadows across the ripples. Bring water, sun protection and layers, since the open ground offers no shade and the wind can be strong. Stay on the marked path to protect the habitat.