Natural areas
The most stunning nature reserves in Zeeland
Discover Zeeland’s pearls of natural beauty. Come and explore unique nature reserves all home to a rich diversity of fauna and flora and many fascinating stories. You are sure to be captivated by the peace and beauty of Zeeland’s landscape. Read on ...
Waterdunen
Waterdunen near Breskens characterises the way in which land and water come together here in Zeeland. The reserve brings together nature, recreational amenities and coastal defences. The salt waters of the Westerschelde estuary enter Waterdunen via a tidal channel ensuring a diverse landscape of salt marshes, creeks and mudflats. There are 19 kilometres of walking trails here, made up of three routes: the Vogelroute (5.5 km), the Golfroute (9 km) and the Zeekraalroute (4.5 km). There are several hides in the reserve where you can observe birdlife close up. Cyclists can explore the reserve from its fringes and enjoy the great views.
Oranjezon
Come and discover the Oranjezon nature reserve in Walcheren, a wildlife haven close to Vrouwenpolder which is often less crowded than other similar reserves in Zeeland. This landscape is a pleasant mix of woodland, dunes and salt marsh. You might come across some koniks, a breed of small horse, and if you’re lucky, roe and fallow deer. There are several hiking trails in Oranjezon, the longest and most varied of which is the Damhertroute (6.5 km). Marvel at the fauna and flora and the unspoilt surroundings.
De Schelphoek
The nature reserve of De Schelphoek in Schouwen-Duivenland consists of a creek which was created after the Great Flood of 1953. This was done by closing the breaches in the dyke and then building a perimeter dyke. A woodland has been planted around the creek, creating a remarkable nature reserve. The reserve is a nesting area for owls, nightingales and spotted woodpeckers, and with a bit of luck you might spot a kingfisher. Stop awhile and enjoy the view from the lookout point on a caisson. You can discover De Schelphoek on foot or by bike and learn more about its fauna and flora and its history.
The Groote Gat
The Groote Gat in Zeeland-Flanders is an exceptional nature reserve incorporating the remains of fortifications from the Eighty Years’ War. Amongst other things, the reserve features reed beds, pollarded trees and wet grassland. A line of duckboards leads you to the bird hide, where rare species of breeding birds can be observed at close quarters. The reserve offers a diverse mix of nature and history.
Brilletjesweel
Brilletjesweel is a delightful nature reserve in Zuid-Beveland, where two small creeks come together to form pools in the form of a pair of spectacles (Dutch: brilletjes). This special mix of marsh and grassland is home to rare bird species and colourful amphibians. There are walking and cycling trails to enhance your enjoyment of this peaceful oasis. Please respect the environment by sticking to the waymarked trails. Brilletjesweel’s natural beauty provides an unforgettable experience!
Cletemspolder
Cletemspolder is a nature reserve with wet grassland and marshes, ideal for wading birds, such as the black-tailed godwit and the redshank. Children can amuse themselves on the suspension bridge, the hand-pulled wooden raft and the stepping stones and enjoy the views from the lookout point. The channel bisecting the dunes means that Cletemspolder acts a magnet for birdlife. Discover the diversity of this hidden nature reserve in Zeeland-Flanders.
Oosterschelde National Park
Come and explore the Oosterschelde National Park, an ecologically important tidal habitat with sand bars and creeks. The park is an important biotope for seals, many bird species and underwater fauna and flora. There are various waiking and cycling trails through the reserve. The park is also an ideal spot for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. You are sure to be captivated by its beauty and biodiversity. For more information, visit the park’s official website.
The Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe
One of Europe’s largest salt marshes, the Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe was created following major inundations in the 14th and 16th centuries. This dynamic landscape of salt marshes and mudflats is a major draw for migrating birds and has a rich fauna and flora. Visitors can explore the area by way of a ‘planked’ trail and a ‘muddy boots’ trail. Or you can participate in a special ‘muddy boots’ excursion or take an adventure through the channels and mudflats of the reserve.
Schuddebeurs
Schuddebeurs, in Schouwen-Duiveland, is a small nature reserve with a mixture of oak, beech and hawthorn woodland. The reserve is a haven for woodpeckers, owls, roe deer, weasels and other wildlife fauna. Snowdrops and wood anemone can be found here in the early spring, and many insect and butterfly species in the autumn.
Visitors are free to roam, go birdspotting and fish (with a license). Historic mansions, such as Mon Plaisir, still grace the surroundings and contribute to the unique atmosphere of this wildlife haven.
