Best Dog-Friendly Trails in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is deceptively good trail running territory. The country is flat — true — but the coastal dunes, Veluwe heathlands, and river delta forests offer varied terrain that most visitors and many locals haven't explored on foot.
Top five from my FurTrail log:
The Hoge Veluwe dunes: a 12 km loop through sand dunes and old-growth forest. Dogs allowed off-leash on the heath sections. Water at the visitor centre only — bring enough for the route. Best in early morning before the cyclists.
Maasvlakte beach trails: open sand running along the industrial shoreline. Strange and beautiful, completely flat. Off-leash allowed, no fresh water, avoid in summer heat. Best November through March.
Twiske polder trails: polders north of Amsterdam, flat dyke paths, waterfowl everywhere. Dogs on leash near the bird reserves but off-leash on the main paths. Multiple water stops.
South Kennemerland dunes: coastal dunes with significant elevation variation by Dutch standards. Technical footing in places. Dogs allowed on designated trails only — check the map at the entrance.
Biesbosch waterways: navigational challenge on the river islands. Bring a GPS and be prepared for muddy trails after rain. Dogs love the water access.