Grevelingen - Nature

The Grevelingen is a unique nature and recreation area where salty sea air, wide views, recreation and adventure come together. This unique area, often simply called "the Grevelingen", lies between Goeree-Overflakkee (north side) and Schouwen-Duiveland (south side).

Largest saltwater lake in Europe: 14,000 hectares in total, of which 11,000 hectares are water and 3,000 hectares are areas that have fallen dry.
Depth and safety: 7,000 hectares are deeper than 1.5 metres; the shallow water is carefully marked with buoys.
Natural gems: Spread across the area are islands and sandbanks such as Hompelvoet, Stampersplaat and Veermansplaat, ideal resting and breeding places for birds and seals.
Closed off by the Delta Works: After the construction of the Grevelingendam (1965) in the east and the Brouwersdam (1971) in the west, the connection with the North Sea and the Volkerak was closed. As a result, an open sea inlet turned into a safe and stable saltwater lake.
Versatile destination: Water sports enthusiasts find perfect conditions here, nature lovers discover special flora and fauna, and those seeking peace enjoy the wide views and silence.
Activities for everyone: Sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, birdwatching, walking across the mudflats or simply relaxing by the water, the Grevelingen has it all.

Nature and wildlife in and around the Grevelingen

The Grevelingen is one of the most remarkable nature areas in the Netherlands. You will find a mix of saltwater and freshwater flora and fauna here, which is rare. Thanks to the shallow sandbanks and deep channels, the water is exceptionally clear and countless species of fish, birds and even marine mammals live here.

Seals: Regularly spotted on the sandbanks of the Kabbelaarsbank or the Middelplaat.
Fjord horses and cattle: They graze on the islands and keep the area open.
Rare birds: The little tern, skylark and Kentish plover breed here every year.
Special plants: Salt-loving and freshwater plants grow side by side in the transitions between wet and dry.

Well-known sub-areas include De Punt, De Val, Dwars in de Weg, Herkingen, Kabbelaarsbank, Markenje, Mosselbank, Noordplaten, Ossehoek, Slikken van Bommenede, Slikken van Dijkwater, Slikken van Flakkee, Stampersplaat and Veermansplaat.

The Brouwersdam

The Brouwersdam connects Goeree-Overflakkee with Schouwen-Duiveland and is not only a flood barrier but also a popular place for recreation.

Water sports mecca: On the North Sea side you can kitesurf and wave surf, while the Grevelingen side is popular with sailors, paddleboarders and windsurfers.
Beach and sun: Wide beaches on the North Sea side are perfect for sunbathing or walking.
Concert at Sea: Every year the big music festival organised by BLØF takes place here. A unique combination of music and sea.
Restaurants and beach clubs: Along the dam you will find trendy beach pavilions and cosy places to eat, ideal for enjoying the sunset.

The Kabbelaarsbank

The Kabbelaarsbank, on the Ouddorp side, is a popular recreation area within the Grevelingen.

Marina: A modern marina with moorings for hundreds of boats.
Diving: Thanks to the clear water, this is one of the best dive sites in the Netherlands, with special underwater flora and fauna.
Beaches: Small sandy beaches also make the area attractive for families with children.
Nature area: On the east side you will find quiet areas where birds breed undisturbed.

De Punt

De Punt, located on Goeree-Overflakkee near Ouddorp, is a versatile nature area on the Grevelingen.

Walking and cycling routes: Enjoy routes through woodland and dunes and along the water.
Nature and birds: A hotspot for birdwatchers, with a chance of spoonbills, cormorants and great egrets.
Beach fun: Families can also come here for a relaxing day by the water.
Gateway to the Grevelingen: Many excursions start from De Punt, for example those of Staatsbosbeheer.

The Grevelingendam

On the east side, the Grevelingen is closed off by the Grevelingendam. This dam connects Schouwen-Duiveland with Goeree-Overflakkee and plays an important role in water management.

Recreation area Bruinisse: On the Bruinisse side you will find small beaches and sunbathing lawns, ideal for families.
Herkingen: This village on the dam is known for its marina and cosy restaurants overlooking the water.
Sport fishing: The dam and the surrounding waters are popular with anglers.
Viewpoints: From the dam you have a wonderful panoramic view over both the Grevelingen and the Oosterschelde.

What can you do in the Grevelingen?

Besides these specific places, there are countless activities throughout the area:

Water sports: Sailing, surfing, paddleboarding, canoeing and diving, the Grevelingen is the place to get out on the water.
Nature experiences: Walk or cycle through the mudflats and spot special birds or even seals on the sandbanks.
Diving: Thanks to the clear water and the unique biodiversity, the Grevelingen is very popular with divers.
Sun and relaxation: There are various small beaches and sunbathing lawns spread across the area.
Excursions: Staatsbosbeheer and other organisations offer excursions, ranging from bird tours to boat trips.

Conclusion

The Grevelingen is a unique part of the Netherlands where nature and recreation go hand in hand. With 14,000 hectares of water, islands, mudflats and beaches, it is a paradise for anyone who loves peace, space and adventure. Whether you go for water sports, a walk in nature or simply a relaxing day by the water: the Grevelingen offers it all.

A visit to this beautiful nature area is an absolute must!