Running through the dunes of Texel – trail runs on the Wadden Islands

Texel: the largest Wadden Island with the iconic lighthouse and beautiful beaches. This famous island is a popular tourist destination, both at home and abroad. Yet Texel also offers plenty of undiscovered gems, where you can enjoy nature in peace.

This run of over 7.5 kilometers takes you through the amazing dune landscapes in the southwestern part of Texel, just west of the village of Den Hoorn. You will come across dunes and fens and you will have the chance to spot stray cattle and special birds. This run is doable for most intermediate runners and a nice challenge for the novice runners just completing their first 5K runs.

The starting point can be reached with the so-called Texelhopper. This is a van that you have to order in advance. The Texelhopper must be ordered at least half an hour in advance via www.texelhopper.nl, the Texelhopper app or by telephone (+31 (0) 222-784000). When booking, please indicate where your nearest departure point is. Each stop has its own name and number which can be seen in the overview at the pick-up point.

The first highlight you will encounter is the Bollekamer dune area. You will see special plants such as the bell gentian. This is not to be missed in the summer due to the deep blue color. Along the way you can also spot Scottish highlanders and Exmoor ponies that roam loose between the dunes and often graze peacefully.

You will then come across several dune fens, where you have the chance to spot birds, such as spoonbills, oystercatchers, grebes and much more. Did you know that Texel is home to more than 100 bird species in total? If you have a compact bird watcher, it's definitely worth taking it with you on your run.

On the second half of your run, the landscape changes in a surprising way: suddenly you are walking through a shady forest, in the middle of the dunes! This forest is also a favorite for the free roaming game, such as cattle and wild horses, for sheltered grazing. So pay attention during your run! Always keep your distance from wildlife and treat them with respect.

Once back at the starting point, it is definitely recommended to walk to the village center of Den Hoorn for a well-deserved meal or a drink on the terrace. For example, the aptly named restaurant De Toegift, where you can enjoy local beers, burgers and salads. The restaurant is open from 12 noon to 9 pm on Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, and from 5 pm to midnight on Saturdays.