Strolling and feasting – the best pancake hikes in the Netherlands

After an invigorating hike, what could be better than a warm, fresh pancake made from artisan ingredients? Well, pancake houses are as Dutch as stamppot, sauerkraut and cycling in the rain.

The Netherlands is known for its beautiful landscapes and wonderful walks that end at cosy pancake houses. Here, hikers can rest and enjoy Dutch hospitality and culinary traditions. Pancakes are an indispensable part of the menu and available in many different flavours and varieties. Most pancake restaurants are true family institutions that have been around for generations, boasting their own traditional recipes.

This Collection takes you through some of the best the Netherlands has to offer in terms of beautiful landscapes and traditional pancake houses. Spot wild bison near Overveen, romp in the wild dune landscape of Meijendel, visit the unique 'Pannenkoekentrein' (Pancake Train) in Marrum, set in an old train station, and marvel at a dolmen in the Gasterse Duinen.

There’s something for everyone: from manageable walks of about 7 kilometres (4 mi), to substantial Tours of more than 20 kilometres (12.5 mi). With walks from Friesland to Limburg and everything in between, you’ll see all the beauty this special country has to offer. Set off well prepared and take your time to enjoy the surroundings to the full. Of course, don't forget that a hot, fresh pancake will be waiting for you at the finish line!

There are many unmissable Highlights. How about the teahouse 'In de Zevende Hemel' in Peel en Maas? This is a unique location among the trees for a coffee or tea break with homemade cake. There’s a covered terrace and free toilet facilities. You also get the opportunity to walk around and pick fruit, for a fee. Dogs are also welcome.

At Overveen, you have the opportunity to spot wild wisent, which once lived in the wild in Europe and the Netherlands. Unfortunately, they became extinct in the wild, but a breeding programme in Poland in 1929 saved Europe's largest land-based mammal.

Another unmissable Highlight is the ‘Pannenkoekentrein’ (Pancake Train), a restaurant in an old train station in Marrum. When you arrive, station manager Trijntje welcomes you and introduces you to the exhibition of photos, art and railway memorabilia. The 2nd Class waiting room is now a Friesian railway shop with unique train and railway gifts for young and old. The real heart of the place is the engine room, where copper oil barrels can be seen and where stokers bake delicious pancakes.

I hope you enjoy the hikes just as much as the pancakes!