4 of the most beautiful routes in the fall
Fall is a wonderful time to explore the Biesbosch Line in a different way. Golden hues, crisp days, and a landscape full of tranquility. Put on your hiking boots, enjoy the autumnal scenery, and discover the most beautiful routes along the Biesbosch Line.
We’ve picked out four routes that are perfect for fall—from a short walk past an artisanal bakery and local honey to a bike ride filled with regional specialties. Along the way, you’ll discover historic sites, vast polders, and stories that bring you even closer to the region. And with a little luck, you’ll end your trip with a tasty treat.
1. Wijk and Aalburg Loop (7.3 km)
Looking for an autumn walk with a tasty treat at the start and end? The Wijk en Aalburg Loop is a delightful stroll through the Brabant countryside. The route starts at Gerard & Suus, Bakkerij Hardeman, where the De Twee Gebroeders mill grinds the flour for the bakery’s organic bread.
From the historic village center, walk toward the polders and follow the trail junctions through the countryside. Along the way, you’ll pass old fruit trees. When the fruit is ripe, you’re welcome to pick up or pick fallen fruit. This is an especially nice surprise along the way in the fall.
The Honey Bin is also a lovely stop along the route. Here, you’ll discover the world of local honey and bees. This way, a walk through the countryside instantly becomes a little journey of discovery among local producers.
After 7 km, you’ll arrive back at the bakery. A great time to pop inside for a treat and reflect on your fall walk.
Download the route here
2. Fort Bakkerskil Loop (8.2 km)
Fort, polder, water, and fall colors: the Fort Bakkerskil Loop really has everything you need for a beautiful fall day outdoors. The route takes you from Fort Bakkerskil along the Oostwaardpad, past fields and the small river Bakkerskil. Harvesting is underway in the fields, and along the way—depending on the time of year—you’ll see crops such as potatoes, onions, and sugar beets.
You’ll also pass the historic Papsluis, a remarkable part of the New Dutch Water Line. From there, you’ll continue walking along the Bakkerskil and through the farmland. Afterward, you can stop by Fort Bakkerskil for a cup of coffee and a treat. Be sure to check the current opening hours of the outdoor terrace outside the summer season beforehand.
Please note! The unpaved trails can be muddy, so sturdy hiking shoes or boots are highly recommended.
Download the route here
4. Andel Loop (7.2 km)
During the Rondje Andel walk, you’ll stroll through a landscape steeped in history and follow in the footsteps of Jan Claesen, the trumpeter from the famous folk tale. The walk begins at the Wilhelminasluis, a unique fan-shaped lock dating from the late 19th century. From here, you’ll walk toward Fort Giessen and then on to the Hoge Maasdijk. In the fall, the changing colors of the trees and the sweeping view of the Afgedamde Maas provide a picturesque backdrop.
In Andel, you’ll come to the Rombout Tower, where Jan Claesen’s grave is located. Was this really the Jan Claesen from the famous story? We don’t know for sure. But it’s precisely that mystery that makes the story so much fun to discover along the way.
Want to end your walk with a tasty treat? Then stop by the Spar Food Club in Andel and try the local “Broodje Biesboschlinie,” a collaboration between Spar Andel and Biesboschlinie.
Download the route here
