Bergen to Egmond aan Zee: A Dune Walk and Where to Sleep

A 14-kilometre dune route through the Noord-Holland Duinen, with honest advice on which village to base yourself in.

The Route: Bergen to Egmond aan Zee

The walk from Bergen to Egmond aan Zee is one of the most rewarding day hikes in Noord-Holland, following the Noordhollands Duinreservaat for roughly 14 kilometres. Start at the edge of Bergen, where the bike path meets the dunes near the Ruïnekerk, and head west toward the coast. The route is waymarked and mostly soft sand, so allow four to five hours including stops. You will need a day ticket for the waterleidingduinen section, available at the entrance near the Bergerbos.

The path climbs steadily through pine and scrub, opening onto wide sand flats near the coast. Keep an eye out for the numbering system on the wooden posts — it is easy to drift onto a parallel track. The best months are May, June and September, when the heather is out and the crowds are thin. In July and August, start before 9am to avoid the heat and the busiest stretch near the Egmond beach entrances. There are no shops or cafés on the route, so carry water.

Where to Sleep: Bergen versus Egmond aan Zee

Bergen is the more atmospheric base, with its leafy lanes, art galleries and the Ruïnekerk at its centre. Hotels cluster around the Plein and the Bergen aan Zee road, mostly small family-run places in the mid-range bracket. Expect to pay more for the convenience of being steps from restaurants, but you get a quieter evening than at the coast. Parking is limited and often paid, so check before booking if you arrive by car.

Egmond aan Zee is the family-friendly option, with a wide beach, a lighthouse and a cluster of hotels along the Boulevard and the Voorstraat. It is busier in summer and the architecture is more utilitarian, but you are right on the sand and the sunset views are superb. For a three-night stay focused on walking, I would book in Bergen and take the bus to Egmond for the return leg — the 165 runs hourly and takes 20 minutes.

Practical Details: Transport and Timing

Public transport links both villages to Alkmaar, which is the rail hub for the region. From Alkmaar, bus 166 goes to Bergen in about 15 minutes, and bus 165 continues to Egmond aan Zee in another 20. If you are coming from Amsterdam, the train to Alkmaar takes 35 minutes, then change to the bus. A day ticket for the buses costs around €10, and you can buy it on board or via the app.

By car, Bergen is 45 minutes from Amsterdam via the A9, and Egmond aan Zee is a further 15 minutes along the N512. Parking in Bergen costs about €2.50 per hour in the centre, while Egmond has larger car parks near the beach for around €6 per day. The walk itself is linear, so either leave a car at each end or use the bus to return. The last bus back from Egmond to Bergen leaves around 7pm in winter, later in summer.

What to Skip and What to Book

Skip the temptation to walk the entire dune reserve from Schoorl to Egmond in one go — it is over 25 kilometres and the southern section is less varied. Also skip the beach route at high tide; the sand can be soft and the wind relentless. If you only have one day, focus on the Bergen to Egmond leg and reward yourself with a pancake at one of the beach pavilions in Egmond, though be prepared for queues at peak lunchtime.

For accommodation, I would book a small hotel in Bergen's old centre, ideally within walking distance of the Ruïnekerk, and use it as a base for both the dune walk and day trips to Alkmaar and the Schermer windmills. Book directly with the hotel for the best rates — many are family-run and offer flexible cancellation. Avoid the large holiday parks on the edge of Egmond if you value quiet; they are convenient but lack character.

Questions, answered

How long does the dune walk from Bergen to Egmond aan Zee take?

Most walkers take four to five hours, including stops. The route is about 14 kilometres on soft sand, so pace yourself. Start early to avoid the afternoon heat in summer.

Do I need a ticket for the Noordhollands Duinreservaat?

Yes, for the sections managed by PWN. Day tickets are available at entrance points and cost around €2.50. They are not needed for the coastal path outside the reserve.

Which village is better for a weekend stay: Bergen or Egmond aan Zee?

Bergen is quieter and more picturesque, with better restaurants. Egmond is more family-oriented and has direct beach access. For a walking break, Bergen is the better base.

How do I get from Amsterdam to Bergen without a car?

Take the train to Alkmaar (35 minutes) and then bus 166 to Bergen (15 minutes). Buses run twice an hour. A combined ticket is available from the driver.

Is the walk suitable for children?

Older children who are used to walking can manage it, but the distance and sand may be tiring for younger ones. Consider a shorter loop from Bergen or Egmond instead.

What is the best time of year for this walk?

May, June and September offer the best balance of weather and fewer crowds. July and August are busiest; start early. Winter walks are bracing but many cafés close.

Where can I park near the start of the walk in Bergen?

There are paid car parks near the centre, such as the one on the Binnenhof. Expect to pay around €2.50 per hour. Free parking is scarce; arrive early on weekends.

Are there places to eat along the route?

No, the dune reserve has no facilities. Bring water and snacks. In Egmond aan Zee, several beach pavilions serve food, but they can be busy at lunchtime.

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