Marskramerpad (Merchant’s Path)
Marskramerpad (Merchant’s Path) Guide: Complete Hiking Route in the Netherlands
Embark on an unforgettable journey across the Netherlands with the Marskramerpad (Merchant’s Path), a long-distance trail traversing 372 kilometers from the charming coastal dunes of Scheveningen to the rustic beauty of the German border near Bad Bentheim. This captivating route immerses hikers in a rich tapestry of diverse Dutch landscapes, winding through bustling historic cities, picturesque villages, tranquil forests, lush wetlands, and expansive farmland.
As you follow the footsteps of medieval merchants, each stage of the Marskramerpad promises a unique blend of cultural treasures, traditional windmills, and striking waterway vistas. Ideal for those seeking both natural beauty and a deep dive into Dutch heritage, the Marskramerpad offers an adventure filled with ever-changing scenery, local hospitality, and a true sense of discovery.
Route Overview
The Marskramerpad is a point-to-point trail starting on the North Sea coast at Scheveningen (near The Hague) and ending at Bad Bentheim on the German border. Over its 372-kilometer length, the route crosses a variety of landscapes, connecting major cities and rural regions. Key locations along the trail include The Hague, Voorschoten, the Green Heart (Groene Hart), Woerden, Amersfoort, Deventer, Oldenzaal, and numerous small villages and nature reserves.
Most hikers complete the Marskramerpad in approximately 18 days, with daily segments averaging 15–25 kilometers. The trail primarily follows lowland paths consisting of paved sections, gravel tracks, dirt trails, and occasional boardwalks through marshy areas. The route is generally well signposted but passes through both urban and rural environments, with some segments featuring busy cycle paths or country roads.
Facilities such as restrooms, cafes, accommodation options (hotels, hostels, campsites), and public transport are accessible along most stages, especially in or near towns. However, longer rural stretches may require more self-sufficiency regarding food and water. The trail’s minimal elevation changes and generally easy terrain make it accessible to walkers of most experience levels, though the overall distance requires good preparation and stamina.
Tracing the Footsteps of Merchants: The Historical Context of the Marskramerpad
The Marskramerpad (Merchant’s Path) traces its origins to the trade routes once used by traveling merchants—known as “marskramers”—who transported goods between major trading centers in the Netherlands and Germany. In the Middle Ages, these itinerant traders walked long distances across varied terrain, carrying wares such as cloth, spices, tools, and other essentials on their backs or with the help of handcarts. The path linked Dutch cities like The Hague and Amersfoort with thriving markets over the border, fostering economic and cultural exchanges that shaped local communities for generations.
Throughout history, the Marskramerpad played a vital role as part of a broader network of European trade routes, connecting the North Sea with inland regions and beyond. The influence of these centuries-old trading journeys can still be seen today in the architecture of historic towns, lively market squares, and roadways that echo the steps of merchants past. As you walk the trail, you’ll encounter markers, museums, and heritage sites that offer a glimpse into this fascinating era, making each stage both a physical challenge and a journey through Dutch history.
Notable highlights
Scheveningen Beach: The trail begins (or ends) at this iconic North Sea beach near The Hague, featuring expansive dunes, sandy shores, and the lively Scheveningen Pier.
Royal The Hague: Experience the political heart of the Netherlands, with landmarks such as the Binnenhof (Dutch Parliament), Peace Palace, and world-class museums set amidst historic architecture.
Green Heart (Groene Hart) Region: Walk through the serene, quintessentially Dutch rural landscape of polders, canals, and traditional windmills, perfect for birdwatching and photography.
Amersfoort: This medieval city charms visitors with its well-preserved city walls, picturesque canals, and the stunning Koppelpoort, a combined land and water gate from the 15th century.
Twente Forests and Heathlands: Traverse the tranquil woodlands and rolling heath of eastern Netherlands, passing through peaceful farming villages and areas rich in local folklore.
Historic Market Towns: Encounter a string of vibrant towns, including Deventer and Oldenzaal, each with cobbled squares, centuries-old churches, and hospitable cafes that capture the spirit of the Dutch trading tradition.
Waterways and Wetlands: The route meanders past scenic rivers like the IJssel and highlights important wetland reserves, providing chances to spot rare flora and fauna.
German Border at Bad Bentheim: The trail’s eastern end is marked by the imposing Bad Bentheim Castle, an impressive medieval fortress welcoming hikers at the threshold of Germany.
Challenges to expect
While the Marskramerpad does not feature extreme elevation changes or technical ascents, its considerable total distance of approximately 372 kilometers presents a significant endurance challenge. Covering this long-distance route typically requires daily walks of 15 to 25 kilometers, so hikers should plan carefully, managing their pace, rest, and resupply points to avoid exhaustion.
Weather along the path can be unpredictable, especially in the spring and autumn. Rain showers and cool winds are common, making waterproof clothing and reliable footwear essential. Wet conditions can also render some grassy or earthen segments slippery and muddy, particularly in polders and wetland areas.
Navigation is generally straightforward thanks to the well-marked red-and-white trail signs, but in urban settings or at certain junctions where signage is less clear, hikers should carry a detailed map or GPS device. Some rural stretches have limited facilities, so water and snacks should be carried for these sections. Additionally, the trail regularly encounters cycle paths and road crossings, requiring increased caution and awareness for hikers sharing the route with cyclists and traffic.
Netherlands - Urban
- Forest
- Coastal
- Wetlands
- Paved
- Gravel
- Dirt
- Boardwalk
- Hotels
- Campsites
- Hostels
- Family Friendly
- Pet Friendly
- Restrooms
- Water Sources
- Campsites
- Picnic Areas
Start your journey at the North Sea coast from Scheveningen, traversing sandy dunes and coastal promenades before heading inland to enter The Hague. The route features urban parks, tree-lined avenues, and the city's monumental center. Notable highlights include the Peace Palace and passing government buildings.
Leaving The Hague, you'll follow winding canal paths and leafy suburban trails through smaller communities. The stage is marked by stretches of classic Dutch polders and rural farmland, ending in the historic village of Voorschoten.
This section leads you further through the Groene Hart (Green Heart) region—a landscape defined by open fields, water channels, and windmills. You'll pass traditional farms, quiet meadows, and stretches with abundant birdlife, ending in the rural village of Zoeterwoude.
Today’s route follows dikes and waterways, with long vistas across the lowlands. You'll encounter small, picturesque villages and enjoy peaceful walking alongside classic Dutch canals. The day ends in Alphen aan den Rijn, an inviting town with riverside cafes.
Cross through the scenic wetland reserve around Nieuwkoopse Plassen, an area renowned for its birdlife and rich flora. Boardwalks, country lanes, and quiet causeways make this a tranquil day, finishing in the quaint village of Nieuwkoop.
Journey further through broad meadows and polder landscapes, passing reed beds, nature reserves, and heritage farms. The route brings you to Woerden, an ancient fortified city with well-preserved walls and lively town squares.
Spend the day following the winding rivers and small-scale farmlands of the Green Heart. Tranquil, narrow paths bring you to the picturesque, historic town of Oudewater, famed for its centuries-old architecture and witch weighing house museum.
Today’s gentle stage takes you along narrow dikes, traversing scenic rivers, fields, and small hamlets. Your destination, IJsselstein, is known for its attractive old town and impressive church tower.
Leave the flat expanse behind as the trail transitions to wooded areas and rolling countryside. Passing through villages and forested parks, you’ll arrive in medieval Amersfoort—admired for its historic ramparts, cobbled streets, and vibrant city center.
This section leads across the sandy Utrechtse Heuvelrug ridge, known for its woodlands and heath. Shaded trails and open landscapes alternate, offering a pleasant mix before descending into Soest, which sits amid countryside and historic estates.
A forested route awaits on the way to Baarn, with tree-lined avenues, royal parks, and the chance to see Soestdijk Palace. Broadleaf woodlands and peaceful paths make this stage soothing and picturesque.
The trail weaves through stately estates and ancient forests as you head into the Gooi region, famed for its heathlands and scenic beauty. Arrive in Laren, a pretty artists’ village with a rich cultural history.
Leaving Laren, follow paths through open landscapes and nature reserves, passing streams, former peatlands, and small woodland patches. Arrive in the rural hamlet of Baakloods, surrounded by fields and forests.
Cross through Gelderland’s countryside and picturesque farmlands, eventually approaching the historic Hanseatic city of Deventer on the banks of the IJssel. Enjoy impressive city views as you enter this lively center renowned for its medieval heritage.
Leaving Deventer, the landscape becomes gently rolling, with heaths and forests marking the way to Holten. Rural lanes, woodland trails, and the distant views of the Sallandse Heuvelrug National Park make this a varied and scenic day.
Hike through the Twente region, encountering a mix of woodlands, small villages, and characteristic farms. The route features quiet backroads and natural parks before arriving in Oldenzaal, known for its Romanesque church and vibrant atmosphere.
This section winds across Twente’s lush patchwork landscape, following winding streams and hedgerows. Walk through serene nature reserves and rural roads before reaching the charming border town of Denekamp.
On the final day, cross the Dutch-German border into Lower Saxony. Rolling woodlands and quiet trails lead to the impressive Bad Bentheim Castle, where the Marskramerpad officially ends.