Kop van Schouwen: Where dunes, forests and sea meet

This special nature reserve is located at the western tip of Schouwen-Duiveland in Zeeland and offers an unparalleled variety of landscapes.

What makes the Kop van Schouwen so special?

Diverse nature: Walk from quiet wet dune valleys to rugged dry dunes, from peaceful wide beaches to deep forests.
Peace and space: No mass tourism here, but expansive landscapes and calming silence.
Rare flora & fauna: Encounter roe deer, fallow deer, konik horses, sand lizards and countless birds.
Walking & cycling: Perfectly signposted routes with viewing towers, boardwalks and benches.
Beach and sea: End your walk with a refreshing swim or a picnic on the beach.

The Kop van Schouwen consists of several sub-areas, each with its own charm: the Meeuwenduinen, Zeepeduinen, Verklikkerduinen, the Vroongronden, the Verklikkerstrand, and the largest forest in Zeeland: Westerschouwen forest.

Boswachterij Westerschouwen

On the west side of the island Schouwen-Duiveland lies the impressive Westerschouwen Forestry: the largest forest area of Zeeland. This diverse nature reserve combines forests, dunes and open sand plains and is a paradise for walkers, cyclists and nature lovers. - Natural oasis: A haven of peace with dune forests, pines, deciduous trees, dune ponds, viewpoints and ...

Kraaijensteinweg, Burgh-HaamstedeMore information

Meeuwenduinen

The Meeuwenduinen form one of the most pristine and natural dune areas of Zeeland. Here you experience the power of wind, sand and sea in an impressive silence area. - Silence and nature: A unique area with high dunes, quiet valleys and rare plants such as grass of Parnassus, centaury and marsh helleborine. - Accessible only outside breeding season: To protect vulnerable ...

Kraaijensteinweg, Burgh-HaamstedeMore information

Zeepeduinen

Zeepeduinen: dune landscape full of nature, history and viewpoints Between Burgh-Haamstede and the Meeuwenduinen lie the Zeepeduinen. A dynamic nature reserve where wind and sand constantly shape the landscape. - Popular walking area: Sand drifts, dune grasslands and small dune pools make this a varied terrain, ideal for families and nature lovers. - Konik horses and ...

Zandstraat, BurghMore information

Verklikkerduinen

The Verklikkerduinen are located on the southwest side of the Kop van Schouwen, just behind the Verklikkerstrand. This expansive and rugged dune landscape is a favourite spot for those seeking peace and for nature lovers. - Colourful flora: In spring and summer, dune violets, orchids, wild thyme and countless other plants bloom, colouring the dunes. - Varied landscape: ...

Maireweg, Burgh-HaamstedeMore information

Verklikkerstrand

The Verklikkerstrand lies on the edge of the Verklikkerduinen. This expansive, natural beach is known as one of the most beautiful and quietest in Zeeland. - Wide and natural: A clean, wide beach with no promenade, beach clubs or crowds – pure nature. - Plenty of space: Even on peak summer days it never feels crowded or overwhelming here. - Seal spotting: At low tide, ...

Maireweg, Burgh-HaamstedeMore information

Vroongronden

The Vroongronden lie on the eastern side of the Kop van Schouwen, between Burgh-Haamstede and Renesse. The open grassland has a rich history and today it is a valuable nature reserve. - Ancient grasslands: Originally used as communal pastures for villagers, now a unique cultural landscape preserved through the centuries. - Abundant flora: In the wet meadows you’ll find ...

Vroonweg, RenesseMore information

Kop Van Schouwen Excursieschuur Westerschouwen Staatsbosbeheer, Burgh Haamstede

Practical information and tip

Excursion Barn Westerschouwen

At the edge of the largest forest area of Zeeland – Boswachterij Westerschouwen – you’ll find the Excursion Barn Westerschouwen of Staatsbosbeheer. This small but welcoming spot is the perfect starting point for a walk, guided tour, or an adventurous discovery trip in nature. What can you expect at the Excursion Barn? - Walking routes and maps: Pick up your map ...

Kraaijensteinweg 140, Westenschouwen
web. Website More information

The Kop van Schouwen is a nature reserve where the elements come together: wind, sea, sand, grass and trees. Whether you are a sporty cyclist, a peaceful walker, a photographer or a bird enthusiast, you will always find a spot that suits you here.

Be surprised by the diversity of this unique area – a place where Zeeland shows itself at its very best.

Map of Kop van Schouwen