Unique running routes
Frequent runners probably already know: September is Texel’s ultimate running month. On the last Sunday of the month, the Texel Half Marathon takes place. Participants can choose between 6, 10, or 21.1 kilometers. The longest distances start from the TESO ferry—this is, as far as we know, the only running event in the Netherlands that starts from a boat!
Registration opens every year on February 1 and fills up within 10 minutes. Want to join? Mark the date and be quick on the computer. Didn’t make it? No worries—Texel is a great island for running anytime. If you prefer paved paths, you’ll love the 150 kilometers of cycling paths made of concrete, asphalt, or shell surface. Want even more fun? Try running in the dunes. The entire dune area is part of the Texel Dunes National Park—and for good reason. The landscape is stunning, with wet valleys, blonde and grey dunes, and scrubland leading into forest. Numerous trails and footpaths cross the dunes, so you can create your own route. Don’t forget to take in the views—they’re incredible! Consider combining your run with Texel’s forest De Dennen. Originally planted for timber, it now serves mainly for recreation. Over the years, many pines have been replaced with deciduous trees, adding diversity and beauty to the landscape.
Cultural history
If you enjoy combining your runs with a bit of cultural history, Texel has plenty to offer. The National Park has a special walking route, mostly on existing paths, that leads past bunkers in the dunes. During WWII, hundreds of bunkers were built here. After the war, many were repurposed—as holiday cottages or storage units. You can even listen to local stories about the bunkers via the park’s website while running.
Expansive sand flats
If you’re seeking solitude, don’t miss De Hors. This vast sand plain at Texel’s southern tip makes you feel like you’re alone in the world. Watch new dunes forming and, with luck, spot sunbathing seals. From the flats, you can head back toward Den Hoorn via the Horsmeertjes.
Nature right outside your door
What could be better than running straight from your bed into nature? Vakantiehuizen Texel offers comfortable bungalows on the edge of the National Park, with the forest just outside your door. It’s the perfect starting point for short or long runs. Want to know more about running on Texel? Check out the Texel Athletics Club (avtexel.nl) or Runnersworld. On the Runnersworld site, you’ll find various routes across Texel. The shortest is 2.55 km, the longest 44.6 km.
