Along the rugged edge of the North
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Het Ziltepad
Welcome to Het Ziltepad
In this wide-open landscape, church towers serve as striking landmarks – just as they once did for shipping. For us, too, they are beacons of meaning, in many different ways. We’ve already opened the doors for you. The Ziltepad takes you past unspoiled nature, authentic villages and centuries-old churches. Walking or cycling, you’ll see how nature and cultural history come together here.
Interactive Map - View the 15 stages on the interactive map
Get to know the Ziltepad
Part of the Ziltepad has now been mapped out and runs past churches in North Holland, Friesland and Groningen, along the Wadden coast from Stroe to Losdorp, or the other way around. The route currently consists of fifteen stages of 15–25 kilometres, which you can walk or cycle. It’s also possible to explore smaller sections. Getting lost is impossible, as writer and guide Fokko Bosker points the way in a detailed walking and cycling guide.
Along the way
The distinctive churches can be seen from afar. Built on mounds and terps, they rise above the landscape. The churches can also be visited in winter. Their doors are not always open daily, but you can collect a key from the designated address to enter. Information can be found beside the church door. In the churches you’ll find three guides ready for you: an inspiration and meditation guide to help you start your journey relaxed and inspired, the Ziltepad Menu Guide introducing local products, and of course the Ziltepad Route Guide. Along the way, there are various activities you can join. On the stage pages you’ll see what there is to discover along the route. Overnight stays are possible in cosy hotels and B&Bs, at local homes, or – like a true pilgrim – in the church.
Want to know how the Ziltepad works?
Read the frequently asked questions here.
The stages of the Ziltepad - Click on the tiles below to discover the first fifteen stages.
Unforgettable overnight stays
In every stage of the Ziltepad, churches are the focal points. Here you can collect a stamp for your route booklet or immerse yourself in the rich history of these fascinating buildings. You can make your Ziltepad experience even more special by staying overnight in the church. Like a true pilgrim, you’ll sleep on one of the camp beds prepared by friendly hosts. Don’t expect the comfort of a luxury hotel – but do expect an experience you’ll never forget.
Below you’ll find a current overview of churches where you can stay overnight.
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Refugio: Foudgum
Refugio: Foudgum
The single-nave St. Mary’s Church was rebuilt in 1808. The church became known thanks to minister François Haverschmidt, who published poetry under...
Piet Paaltjespad 1
9154 BD Foudgum -
Refugio: Zurich
Refugio: Zurich
The village church of Zurich is quite rare, as few churches in Friesland were built in neo-Renaissance style. This relatively young church was buil...
Schoolstraat 6
8751 TG Zurich -
Refugio: Eastrum (Oostrum)
Refugio: Eastrum (Oostrum)
Near Dokkum lies the village of Eastrum (Oostrum). On a partly excavated terp you’ll find this charming little church with a strikingly low tower....
Terpleane 11
9125 EE Oostrum -
Refugio: Hiaure
Refugio: Hiaure
This listed monument in Hiaure was built in 1869 on the foundations of a medieval church. Pilgrims can stay here overnight for a small fee.
Hantumerwei 4
9148 BE Hiaure -
Refugio: Peins
Refugio: Peins
The terp village of Peins has a 14th-century church, partly built of tuff stone. The low tower was added later because the old tower threatened to...
Dorpsstraat 2
8812 JL Peins -
Refugio: Sint-Jacobiparochie
Refugio: Sint-Jacobiparochie
The striking church of Sint-Jacobiparochie has been used for several decades as a cultural centre for the Het Bildt region. Various concerts, meeti...
Oosteinde 1
9079 PD Sint-Jacobiparochie -
Refugio: Holwert
Refugio: Holwert
The St. Willibrordus Church in Holwert is a remarkable church. It has an unusual L-shaped layout and a tower with a remarkably large spire. The chu...
Tsjerkestrjitte 11
9151 HV Holwert
“ The Ziltepad is about hiking between churches, yes, but it’s also about temporarily joining a community – one that’s keen to share its small wonders. ”
Lucy Kehoe, The Guardian
More from the Ziltepad - Listen, watch, relax and taste the Ziltepad:
For questions, please contact: Ruth ter Voort
ruth.tervoort@frysketsjerken.nl
About the Ziltepad
The Ziltepad is a joint initiative of Groninger Kerken and Stichting Alde Fryske Tsjerken, in cooperation with Visit Wadden.
The project is supported by Waddenfonds, Mondriaan Fonds, Stichting Vrienden op de Fiets, Province of North Holland, Province of Fryslân, Province of Groningen, Municipality of Hollands Kroon, FB Oranjewoud and the Cultuurfonds.
