Hoornse Hoproute

Discover De Hulk, the Dwaalpark, and the Markermeerdijk near Hoorn and the rustic village of Scharwoude — 4.7 km of enjoyment of water, nature, and VOC history.

Fresh air, vast water and a piece of VOC past

The Hoornse Hoproute (blue) is a compact 4.7 km circular walk that takes you past Hoorn's green lungs, to a sweeping view over the Markermeer, and back via the rustic village of Scharwoude. It is an ideal route for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the historic city centre for a moment, yet still fully experience the atmosphere of this rich VOC port city. Hoorn is located in West Friesland, and the route starts from the De Hulk recreation area — easily accessible from the centre.

Through a green park, over the dike, and along the water

You start at the recognizable marking of the blue route at the De Hulk recreation area. Immediately surrounded by greenery and open space, you walk through the Hoornse Dwaalpark — an inviting city park where it is pleasant to stroll. You hear the birds, smell the grass, and feel the city slowly fading away behind you. Via the edge of the Grote Waal district, you reach the Markermeerdijk. Here the landscape opens up, and you look out over the shimmering Hoornse Hop — the bend in the former Zuiderzee waters where the VOC merchant fleet used to be anchored. Today, sailors and surfers flash past here in the fresh westerly wind. You walk along the grassy dike, with sweeping views over the water and the opposite bank. Via the small village of Scharwoude — a quiet West Frisian village that most visitors never know — you walk back towards De Hulk on the other side of the railway tracks. A surprising route that offers more than you expect at first glance.

Highlights along the way

1. De Hulk Recreation Area — The green heart right next to the city center of Hoorn. Ideal for a quiet start or a picnic afterwards.
2. Hoornse Dwaalpark — An atmospheric city park with plenty of room to wander. Good for children, dogs (on the route outside the dike), and a breath-conscious walk.
3. Markermeerdijk at the Hoornse Hop — The undisputed highlight of the route: a wide view over the Markermeer, with surfers, sailors, and on clear days even a view of the opposite bank.
4. Scharwoude — A quiet West Frisian gem along the route. This small village on the other side of the tracks is hardly known to tourists — exactly what makes it so special.

West Friesland and the memory of the Zuiderzee

The Hoornse Hop is the bend in the former Zuiderzee waters where the trade routes of the Dutch East India Company (VOC) converged. In the 17th century, Hoorn was one of the richest cities in the world thanks to trade with Asia. The dike you are walking along has protected the land and the city from the wild Zuiderzee waters for centuries. That water is still there—as the Markermeer—but calmer now. The route lets you feel how the history of this West Frisian land is intertwined with the water.

Tips and practical information

1. Dogs: Dogs are not allowed on the grass dike along the Markermeer. As an alternative, you can walk along the base of the dike with a dog.
2. Public transport accessibility: Hoorn Station is located approximately a 15-minute walk from the De Hulk recreational area. Hoorn is easily accessible by train from Amsterdam, Enkhuizen, and Alkmaar. Plan your trip using public transport — so you can leave the car at home.
3. Marking: The route is marked with blue posts and signs. The marking starts at the parking lot at De Hulk.
4. Surface: Partially paved (paths in the park and village) and unpaved (grass dike). Sturdy walking shoes are recommended in wet weather.
5. Accessibility: The route is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers due to the grass dike and unpaved paths. Wheelchair users and strollers can explore De Hulk and the Dwaalpark via paved paths within the park itself.
6. Season: Walkable all year round. Please note: the grass dike can be slippery in autumn and winter. In spring, birds nest along the dike — keep dogs on a leash during the period March–June.
7. Sustainable tip: Hoorn has an excellent train connection. Hop on the train at Amsterdam Central and you'll be at the starting point within half an hour. No hassle with parking, just a fresh start to the walk.