Zandhuizerpad

The Zandhuizerpad is a walking trail in the Lutterzand area, in the east of the Netherlands in the province of Overijssel, close to the German border. It follows a landscape shaped by the Dinkel, a slow, winding river that rises in Germany and flows westward through the sandy countryside of Twente. The trail passes through a mix of heath, woodland, meadows and sandy riverbanks, and it is one of the pleasant quiet routes in a part of the country that most visitors never see.

The Dinkel is one of the few lowland rivers in the Netherlands that has kept its natural meanders. Elsewhere, rivers were straightened and canalised, but here the water still moves in curves, leaving sandbanks on the inner bends and cutting into the banks on the outer ones, which gives the valley a varied structure. The sandy banks are important for birds, insects and plants, and conservation work has aimed to protect and restore this natural dynamic. In summer, the sandbanks are used by people for paddling and picnics.

The landscape around the river is typical of the Twente area, with small fields divided by hedgerows and tree lines, old farmhouses and patches of woodland. The sandy soil has been farmed for centuries, and the habitat includes heath that has been preserved or restored. Among the plants of the area are heather, broom and juniper, and the bird life includes woodland species as well as birds of the river valley. A walk on the trail offers a changing scene, with long views opening and closing as the path moves between trees and meadows.

The path is well marked and suitable for walkers of all ages and abilities, with a mostly flat surface, though it can be sandy or muddy in places. Walking boots or sturdy shoes are advisable. Combining the trail with a stop at the river beach on the Dinkel, listed nearby, adds a chance to rest and paddle.

The trail suits walkers, families and nature lovers. It is best in spring, when the trees are in leaf and birds are singing, and in autumn for colours. Check for any seasonal closures or restrictions, and respect the nature reserve rules, which usually require dogs to be on a lead.