Egmond aan Zee is known for its vast beaches and historic lighthouse. But did you know it also borders one of the most beautiful nature reserves in the Netherlands? The Noordhollands Duinreservaat is a paradise for nature lovers, walkers, and cyclists. Here is everything you need to know for your visit to this breathtaking nature reserve.
Noordhollands Duinreservaat: A Natural Jewel
The Noordhollands Duinreservaat covers a whopping 5,300 hectares and stretches from Wijk aan Zee to Bergen aan Zee. This impressive area offers a diverse landscape of dunes, forests, heathlands, and open sand plains. It is the perfect place to completely unwind and enjoy nature.
What makes the Noordhollands Duinreservaat so special?
- Rich Biodiversity: The area is home to a vast array of flora and fauna, including rare plant species and animals such as deer, foxes, and various bird species.
- Extensive Walking and Cycling Paths: With over 100 kilometers of paths, there is always a new route to discover, whether on foot or by bike.
- Historical Elements: The dune reserve also contains historical remnants such as bunkers from World War II and old farmhouses.
- Seasonal Beauty: Each season offers a new spectacle, from blooming heather in the summer to serene, frost-covered dunes in the winter.
How to Get to the Noordhollands Duinreservaat?
- Multiple Entrances: The nature reserve has many entrances, often located near a parking lot, making it easily accessible from various locations. At the bottom of this page, you will find a selection of these parking lots.
- Visitor Centers as Starting Points: Good starting points are visitor centers De Hoep and/or Duinheide. Here you can also get information about beautiful walking routes and seasonal highlights of flora and fauna.
- From Egmond aan Zee: From the center of Egmond aan Zee, it's just a short walk to an entrance of the nature reserve. Ideal for a spontaneous exploration. In the north, for example, there is an entrance at Beckmanlaan and in the south at Churchilllaan.
The Northern Part: From the Schoorl Dunes to Egmond aan Zee
The northern part of the Noordhollands Duinreservaat, stretching from the Schoorl Dunes to Egmond aan Zee, is one of the most diverse and picturesque parts of the reserve. This area is known for its high dunes, extensive forests, and beautiful heathlands.
What Can You Expect Here?- High Dunes: The dunes in this area are among the highest in the Netherlands, with peaks offering spectacular views over the landscape and the North Sea.
- Diverse Landscape: The northern part offers a mix of dunes, forests, and heath, providing a varied walking and cycling experience.
- Historical Bunkers: Along the coastline, you can find bunkers from the Second World War, which testify to the rich history of the area.
- Peace and Space: This part of the reserve is less visited, allowing you to enjoy the nature in peace.
- Special Routes: There are various marked routes that lead you past the most beautiful spots in this area, ideal for both short and long trips.
The Central Part: Between Egmond aan Zee and the Zeeweg of Castricum
The central part of the Noordhollands Duinreservaat, located between Egmond aan Zee and the Zeeweg of Castricum, is a special area with a rich history and diverse landscapes. Here you can enjoy expansive sand flats, dune lakes, and ancient forests.
What Makes This Part Unique?- Dune Lakes: The dune lakes in this area are an important habitat for water birds and other animals, offering beautiful views.
- Extensive Trail Network: With numerous walking and cycling paths, this area is perfect for an active day in nature.
- Diverse Vegetation: The variety in vegetation, from open sand flats to dense forests, makes each trip here different and interesting.
The Southern Part: Between the Zeeweg of Castricum and Wijk aan Zee
The southern part of the Noordhollands Duinreservaat, between the Zeeweg of Castricum and Wijk aan Zee, offers a mix of rugged dune landscapes and tranquil forests. This part is perfect for those who love adventure and exploring less-trodden paths.
What Can You Expect Here?- Rugged Nature: This area is known for its rugged and unspoiled nature, ideal for the adventurous hiker.
- Quiet Forests: In addition to the dunes, you will also find quiet forests here where you can enjoy the silence and shade on warm days.
- Fossils and Geology: The southern part is also interesting for geologists and fossil enthusiasts, with various spots where you can find old shells and other finds.
- Extensive Cycling Routes: Cyclists can enjoy long, extensive routes that lead you through the entire area.
