The 45-meter-high Brederodeberg and a 13th-century castle ruin
Hidden in the dense forests of the eastern dune section lies the absolute highest point of the national park: the Brederodeberg. While the famous Schoorl Dunes further to the north claim to have the highest dune peaks in our country, this 45-meter-high sand ridge is the undisputed highest point of Zuid-Kennemerland. Although the dense canopy at the summit blocks the view, during the steep climb you immediately sense the rugged dynamism of this centuries-old landscape.
Right at the foot of this dune massif, near Santpoort-Zuid, rugged nature meets centuries-old history. Here stand the imposing remains of the Brederode Ruins, a castle founded in the 13th century by Willem van Brederode. Where knights and nobles once reigned, the weathered castle walls now provide a sheltered home for rare plant species and protected bat colonies.
Why 40% of all our natural diversity is concentrated in these very dunes
This reserve is home to nearly half of our natural heritage, thanks to the exceptional variety of its landscape. Within just a few kilometers, the environment shifts from a salty, wind-swept coastal ridge to wet dune valleys and ancient inland dune forests. Every patch of land has its own microclimate, each supporting different species.
To prevent the area from becoming overgrown with shrubs and trees, large grazers play a key role. The park is known for the impressive bison (the European forest bison), which roam the dunes here. Together with Scottish Highland cattle and Konik horses, these animals keep the landscape open. This gives rare dune orchids, the sand lizard, and countless butterflies plenty of space to survive.
From Duin and Kruidberg to the coast: the best way to explore the park
The most convenient starting point for exploring the area is the Duin en Kruidberg Entrance or the De Zandwaaier Visitor Center. From here, paved bike paths and hiking trails wind deep into the reserve.
One of the most beautiful stops along the way is the Vogelmeer, a sheltered pond in the middle of the dunes where countless birds rest. From there, the trails wind their way to the coastal ridge, allowing you to end your hike on one of the most beautiful beaches in the Netherlands (Bloemendaal aan Zee).
