Westerduinen - Nature

The Westerduinen are the dune area on the west side of Schiermonnikoog, west of the Badweg. Here high drifting dunes, wet dune valleys and birch woodland alternate.

What can you expect at the Westerduinen?

• Varied landscape: You will find large stretches of damp birch woodland and lime-rich dune valleys.
• Sand martins: Sand martins nest in the steep sand walls of the high drifting dunes.
• Protection from the sea: Together with the sea dyke and the other dunes, the Westerduinen form the island's sea defence.
• From conifers to broadleaf: The pine forest once planted for timber is slowly turning into natural broadleaf woodland.
• Walking: The Westerduinenpad takes you through the dunes to the green dyke above the Westerplas.

Practical information

• Out and about: During the breeding season, from 15 April to 15 July, stay on the paths.
• Combine with: A walk to Het Rif or the Wassermann bunker.

The Westerduinen are a varied piece of nature within walking distance of the village of Schiermonnikoog.

Furthermore Westerduinen is near the following sights: Westerduinenpad (±100 m), Lighthouse Noordertoren Schiermonnikoog (±450 m), Shell Museum Paal 14 (±600 m), Sint Egbert kapel (±750 m) & Cabinets of wonder Gribus (±800 m).

For information

Westerduinen, Schiermonnikoog