The region around Amsterdam is full of hidden treasures, and the Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen are the perfect example. Less than 40 minutes from the city, you’ll find a 3,400-hectare oasis where—uniquely in the Netherlands—you’re allowed to roam off the trails completely legally. It’s the ultimate place to leave the hustle and bustle behind and come face to face with wild fallow deer.
From a princely shovel to 70 billion liters of drinking water
The history of this special area dates back to 1853, when the young Prince Willem of Orange broke ground for the Oranjekom. This historic starting point still serves today as the central collection pond near the visitor center.
It has since grown into a massive water system that naturally purifies no less than 70 million cubic meters of water annually. This impressive dune area thus supplies 66% of all drinking water for the residents of Amsterdam.
Wandering off the beaten path—completely legally
This unique area is an official Natura 2000 reserve, a protected nature area within the European Union. Thanks to the strict ban on bicycles and dogs, you can enjoy a wonderful, serene peace and quiet here. It is also one of the few places in the Netherlands where you are allowed to wander off the trails completely legally.
During an exploratory hike along the 15 different walking trails, you’ll find yourself face to face with the dune’s wild inhabitants in no time. The area is currently home to about 700 wild fallow deer, but you might also spot foxes or a rare pine marten here.
A hidden wartime past buried in the sand
In addition to the beautiful nature and the nearby beaches, the dunes also hide an impressive secret. Scattered throughout the entire area are about 400 old World War II bunkers.
Some of these historic structures lie out in the open along the trails, while others have been almost completely swallowed up by the shifting dune sand and nature. It instantly turns your walk or stroll into an adventurous journey of discovery through the past.
Practical information for your visit to
📍 Location: Amsterdamse Waterleidingduinen (with main entrances in Zandvoort, Vogelenzang, and De Zilk)
⏰ Opening hours: Open daily from sunrise to sunset
💶 Price: A day pass is required for visitors 18 and older and costs €1.50
🚘 By car: About a 35-minute drive from Amsterdam (note: the parking lots fill up quickly on weekends)
🚍 By public transit: Take the Intercity from Amsterdam Central to Heemstede-Aerdenhout station (20 minutes) and then take Bus 80 from there.
