As of this week, North Holland has a new walking route: the Ziltepad. This trail runs along the Dutch Wadden Sea coast, from Den Helder in North Holland to Termunten in Groningen.
Natuurgezicht Opening Ziltepad Noord-Holland - Hollands Kroon
Officially opened with a ceremony
The trail, stretching over 400 kilometres, takes walkers past historic churches and picturesque coastal villages along the UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Wadden Sea. The North Holland section of the route has now been completed and was officially opened in a festive ceremony attended by walkers. The completion of the Ziltepad was celebrated on 1 April 2026 at the Nieuwe Kerk in Den Helder. This church is the oldest in Den Helder and also the first church on stage 1 of the Ziltepad in North Holland. During the gathering, the initiators and partners involved spoke about the creation of the trail and its significance for the region.
Pilgrimage route
The Ziltepad is a wonderful addition to the existing walking routes in North Holland. This long-distance walk is a pilgrimage route along the Wadden Sea coast, linking heritage and landscape. The route invites visitors to experience the Wadden Sea landscape in a peaceful and mindful way. In doing so, the Ziltepad responds to the growing need for tranquillity, reflection and meaningful recreation within the country. The trail consists of 22 consecutive stages ranging from 15 to 25 kilometres. Each stage centres on a church. These striking church buildings each tell a piece of the area’s history. All the churches are open to visitors, and in some it is even possible to stay overnight.
Signing in at church
The new route comes with a stamp booklet listing all 22 stages. Walkers can stamp their booklet themselves when they visit a church. In addition, each participating church has its own podcast, which can be listened to on the spot by scanning the QR code inside the church.
About the Ziltepad and the stages in North Holland
The Ziltepad runs past churches in North Holland, Friesland and Groningen along the Wadden Sea coast from Den Helder to Termunten, or vice versa. The route consists of 22 stages of between 15 and 25 kilometres, which you can cover on foot or by bike. It is also possible to explore sections of it. Would you like to read more about the Ziltepad and the new stages of the Ziltepad in North Holland?
Source: www.noord-holland.nl and www.visitwadden.nl