Hoge Hexel: Hiking and Cultural History

Hoge Hexel combines walking routes with cultural history and seasonal flowers. To plan your stay, you can first consider whether you mainly want to explore on foot or visit historic sites. The route lengths, starting points, and sights provide practical guidance.

Walking routes and their starting points

The signposted Ommetje Hoge Hexel is about 5 kilometres long. It starts at 't Skoap'nskot in Hoge Hexel and runs on and around the Es. The Ommetje De Barkel is longer, at about 8 kilometres. You can start it at the sheep barn in Hoge Hexel or at the De Barkel estate. This makes it easy to compare the two routes by their approximate length and the stated starting options.

Another walking route in Hoge Hexel is the Ommetje Janninksbos. 't Skoap'nskot at Piksenweg 6b is also listed as a starting point. As current signposting or availability may vary, check before setting out.

To reach the Ommetje De Barkel by public transport, travel via Vriezenveen railway station. The starting point is 3.5 kilometres from the station; renting an OV-fiets is recommended there. Services, rental options, and access to the route may change. If you plan to travel by train and hire a bike, check these details before your journey.

De Barkel and local cultural history

At 't Skoap'nskot, walking routes meet a historic building: the old, listed sheep barn was dismantled in 2005 by the Stichting Cultureel Erfgoed Hoge Hexel and rebuilt in an authentic style. The name of the De Barkel estate also has a long history. It has been mentioned since 1410 as “de Berckelmaet”.

Pleisterplaats De Barkel is an information point for cultural history and archaeology. Its features include a reconstructed burial mound and a landscaped garden with historic planting. Workshops for adults and children are available by appointment and registration for visitors who would like to explore these subjects in more depth.

Another historic focus is the former Molukse woonoord Vossenbosch. From 1951 to 1972, it housed former soldiers of the Koninklijke Nederlands-Indisch Leger and their families. The history of the settlement adds a post-war perspective to the themes of archaeology and heritage in Hoge Hexel.

Seasonal flowers

More than 150 varieties of flowers grow at Pluktuin Hoge Hexel, including dahlias, cornflowers, and chrysanthemums. You can get fresh bouquets there, including field-flower bouquets in different colours or coordinated shades. The selection is seasonal, and varieties may vary. Check current opening hours before visiting.

Whether you’re looking for a route with a shorter or longer stated distance, are interested in cultural heritage, or want to plan your visit around the seasonal abundance of flowers, Hoge Hexel offers a range of local themes. The specific starting points help you find your way, while the historic sites and flowers offer a different focus for planning your day.

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