The main photo of this page was taken by Gertha Wessels.

De Nederlanden is a nature reserve between De Koog and De Slufter. This unique dune landscape is part of De Muy and an ideal area for hikers and birdwatchers.

Landscape

The landscape of De Nederlanden is characterised by the alternation of dunes, dune valleys and wet grasslands. The varied terrain provides biodiversity and habitat for many plant and animal species. In spring, the dune valleys colour beautifully with orchids and other rare plants in bloom. In late summer, the purple heather blooms. Bird and butterfly lovers will have a great time here. A long path takes you along the different types of landscapes. There are small waters and a beautiful sheep pen: Hopman's Boet. In the area, you will also find the high dune the Bertusnol, with stairs to the highest lookout point on Texel.

History

De Muy was created after Texel was attached to Eyerland in the 17th century. After the construction of a dike holding back the salt water from De Slufter, the area could be reclaimed in the 19th century as cultivated grassland. For a long time, these pastures in De Nederlanden were leased to farmers. They maintained drainage and fertilised the land, including with artificial fertiliser when it became available in the late 19th century. Mainly grass remained, and plants such as rattlesnake, eyebright and orchids disappeared. Mowing also caused many meadow birds to disappear. In the 1960s, brothers Jan and Kees Hopman stopped their agricultural business, allowing their land to shrivel and a flowery hay meadow to emerge. In 2008, the area was rearranged during a major nature development project, aiming to restore the original nature. The fertile upper layer, previously used for agriculture, was removed and the water balance was changed. The ditch became a winding creek with sloping banks. Fertiliser is no longer used there, so you can see plenty of birds in the area again. Part of the area is still used agriculturally. Galloway cattle and sheep now graze there.

Bird watching

De Nederlanden is a paradise for birds. Several species of breeding birds find their home here, including the black-tailed godwit, lapwing and avocet. From the bushes you can hear the nightingale, garden warbler and cuckoo. And maybe you will see a stonechat or greylag. During migration time, you can spot many migratory birds that come here to rest and forage. So take your binoculars to this area.

Walking in De Nederlanden

De Nederlanden is easily accessible by bicycle. Cycling is also allowed on the wide path, which continues to De Slufter. Coming by car? Then use the car park on Muyweg or at Paal 21. Dogs are welcome on a leash. There are information boards telling more about the area's flora and fauna. You can extend the walk by taking in De Slufter or the Muy. On our website, you will also find a walking route that goes through the Nederlanden: walking route Texelse veldnamen. This is a 10.5 km route and it is not suitable for prams or wheelchairs. The walk can only be done between 1 August and 1 March, due to closed paths during the breeding season. You can walk through De Nederlanden year-round, however.

More nature reserves on Texel