The nicest stopping places along the Pieterpad

Are you planning to walk the 'prologue'? This is not a route of the Pieterpad itself, but a tip for a beautiful walk to the Wadden coast as a warm-up. Walking both hiking routes, the prologue and 1st stage, you will arrive in Maarhuizen, Groningen, after about 20 kilometres. Perhaps you could use a rest moment after the peaceful but brisk walking. Luckily, then, there is Cabiner Basecamp.

Basecamp is located on the Maarhuizen mound, a raised hill in the flat landscape of Groningen. The site is a green paradise, where two cabins stand side by side along a pond. The cabin is entirely self-sufficient through the use of solar panels that provide electricity. And by pumping a few times with the hand-operated pump, you can collect fresh and purified groundwater. You'll get a good night's sleep in the middle of nature, after which you'll be off to a good start on your next hikes in Groningen.

After the next stage of about 16 kilometres, you arrive in the city of Groningen. Chances are you are ready for a nice meal. A 5-minute walk from the Pieterpad is Restaurant Feel Good. Here you can enjoy a healthy breakfast or lunch prepared with natural ingredients. Think of a refreshing 'Açai Bowl' or a 'Vegan Chicken Kebab Wrap'. But you are also welcome here for a delicious dinner. Every working day from 17-19h, you can eat 'Wat De Pot Schaft!' here. This menu is a surprise every day, but fresh and a true delight every day.

Are you ready for a lovely place to relax and recharge after your last stage of the Groningen walking routes? Along the route of the Pieterpad lies Bed & Breakfast Hoeve De Vredenhof. The hotel borders the forest 'Het Laarwoud' in atmospheric Zuidlaren. Step inside this beautiful farmstead from 1797. Fully restored to offer you a luxurious and modern stay.

Choose one of the four different room types and immerse yourself in comfort and style. Here you will experience the perfect balance between historical charm and contemporary luxury. What you can expect anyway is the personal attention and care with which owners Alie and Nicole welcome you.

Enter the Boomkroonpad in Drouwen in Drenthe, during your hike to Schoonloo. Awaken your senses as you pass through the root tunnel. From here, ascend step by step and make a journey of discovery through the crowns of tall trees. At the viewing platform, a reward awaits: a panoramic view of Forestry Gieten-Borger.

Here you are immersed in the splendour of nature. From lush forests to vast moorlands. You will have a unique experience, as this is the only treetop trail to be found in the Netherlands. Discover one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Drenthe and get carried away by this magnificent path through the trees.

Herberg de LooHoeve has a perfect location: right on the Pieterpad route. And surrounded by National Park Drentsche Aa, it is a peaceful haven for weary hikers. Relax on the terrace with a fresh herbal tea and local dishes such as a 'Drentse Stoet' with smoked salmon.

As a charming stopping place, the inn not only offers relaxation, but also a chance to experience local culture and gastronomy. With culinary delights and a warm welcome, it is the perfect break spot between stages 5 and 6, with various packages to explore beautiful Drenthe. This inn is the perfect break spot to unwind after exploring the many hiking trails in Drenthe.

Be warmly welcomed by Richard & Roel in their restored farmstead, the Opperdonk, in Lottum. This historic farmhouse from 1900 has been transformed into a charming bed & breakfast with two intimate types of guest rooms. From cosy wooden beams to a soft double box spring. The warm, homely atmosphere immediately embraces you, thanks in part to the presence of both the hospitable owners and the other residents.

Where on the Pieterpad route can you find this B&B? Just a short walk of about 15 minutes from the Swolgen - Venlo stage, you will find De Opperdonk in Limburg. Recharge yourself in the atmospheric garden, sleep like a rose in the quiet and authentic rooms and start your next hike in Limburg rested.

Brasserie In De Witte Dame is not just any place to take a break. It is located in picturesque Grubbenvorst, traditionally known as the asparagus village. Despite the decline in asparagus cultivation, the restaurant and hotel offers an authentic culinary experience with fresh local asparagus. They also offer delectable vegetarian options, such as the veggie burger with mushrooms and truffle mayo.

Sit down on the spacious outdoor terrace and taste the delicious salad with grilled green asparagus. Or go for a hot pan of prawns in garlic oil. It is the ideal resting place for cyclists and walkers, with a cosy atmosphere as inviting as the dishes. This fine spot is named after the 'Legend of the White Lady'. Ask the staff about this and discover this special story. Besides a nice walk, you'll also get a piece of Limburg history at this brasserie.

When walking the hiking trails in South Limburg, you pass the Bemelerberg. Within five minutes you can reach this fantastic viewpoint. The area has been protected by Stichting Limburgs Landschap since 1942, and with good reason. This is the only place in the Netherlands where you can spot the lovely mountain newt. And if you're lucky, a field fritillary will fly past you. As a hiker, you are treated to breathtaking views of colourful grass fields and impressive marl rock walls here. This break spot on the Pieterpad route is definitely worth a visit.