The area of dunes just south of Zandvoort is a protected nature park and a great place to do some hiking in a gorgeous Dutch coastal landscape. The reserve offers a mixture of dunes and waterways, which have been used to purify the local water supply since the 19th century. Quite simply, the fine sand of the dunes naturally filters rain water. Fresh water from the Rhine is also pumped into the dunes and every day about 180,000m3 of water is purified for the whole greater Amsterdam region. In September and October you can also join a special tour of the dunes to watch deer compete for lovers during the mating season. Contact VVV Zandvoort +31 235 71 79 47 or info@vvvzandvoort.nl to arrange a guided hike.
The nature park has four entrances and from Zandvoort the nearest entry point is just south of the De Duinrand (Zandvoorselaan 130) restaurant. The De Oranjekom visitor centre is located near the eastern entrance at Eerste Leijweg and you can learn more about the water purification process here. Tickets can be bought at the De Duinrand restaurant, De Oranjekom or at the tourist office in Zandvoort. Keep the ticket with you as forest rangers might ask you to show it. Bicycles are prohibited.