
39 Nature reserves
Around the villages of Texel lie 39 exceptional nature reserves. Almost all form part of the National Park Dunes of Texel, containing some of the finest dune landscapes in the Netherlands.
Texel is not called 'the Netherlands in miniature' without reason. The island has more than 250 kilometres of walking trails and offers an impressive variety: from dynamic salt marshes and wet dune valleys to expansive pine woodland and bird-rich polders. Every season has its own distinct charm.
The walking routes on Texel guide you to the island's most remarkable spots, from the sea lavender of the Slufter to the orchids in the Muy and the stillness of the Dennen woodland. Below are the routes we recommend.

Around the villages of Texel lie 39 exceptional nature reserves. Almost all form part of the National Park Dunes of Texel, containing some of the finest dune landscapes in the Netherlands.

Between De Koog and the dunes lies the Californiëbos – a charming part of Texel’s nature, full of peace, shade, and adventure for young and old alike. What makes the Californiëbos so special? - Peace and nature: A dense pine forest filled with fragrant trees, singing birds, and refreshing shade – ideal for a relaxing walk or cycle ride. - Fairy-tale Sommeltjespad ...

The Paradise Way is one of the charming spots in the Dennenbos. Those who walk or cycle here immediately understand why this place was named ‘Paradise Way’. What makes the Paradise Way so special? - A Name with a Story: The Paradise Way owes its name to a Texel tenant farmer who once cultivated an open area in the forest as a field. For him, this sheltered place felt ...

The Bleekerij is a hidden gem in the middle of Texel’s De Dennen forest area — an oasis of tranquillity with open grasslands and small ponds. What makes the Bleekerij so special? - Varied landscape: In the middle of the forest unfolds a surprisingly open landscape of meadows, ponds, and flowers, surrounded by the fragrant pines of De Dennen. -

Between seal sanctuary Ecomare and the Californië forest lies Het Alloo – a peaceful and varied nature reserve. What makes nature reserve Het Alloo so special? - Diverse landscape: Het Alloo forms a natural transition between forest, dunes, and polder. You can walk through open dune grasslands, moist valleys, and small wooded areas filled with birdsong. - Abundant ...

On the eastern side of Texel, near the hamlet of Oost and the Wadden Sea dike, lies Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol. This special nature reserve is known for its flower-rich meadows, salt-tolerant plants, abundant birdlife, and the historic story of water management in Polder het Noorden. What can you expect at Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol? - Flower-rich meadows: In spring, the ...

The Westerduinen form a beautiful and tranquil nature reserve on the western side of Texel, featuring a varied landscape of dunes, heathland, and forest. What makes the Westerduinen so special? - Ancient History: The dunes once belonged to the village of De Westen, which centuries ago was buried under drifting sand. Today, the area has become a lively and dynamic nature ...

De Dennen, also known as the Texel Forest, is a beautiful nature reserve on the western side of Texel. The area was planted between 1898 and 1921 for timber production but is now a popular recreational destination. What can you experience in De Dennen? - Forest and Dunes in one: This green oasis is part of the National Park Dunes of Texel and is the perfect place for ...

De Slufter is perhaps the most famous nature reserve on Texel and an absolute must-see during your stay on the island. This unique salt marsh area on the western side of Texel is directly connected to the North Sea, changing its appearance every day. Whether you come to walk, watch birds, or simply enjoy a picnic in nature: De Slufter always surprises. What makes De ...

Texel has 34 viewpoints with a wide outlook over the sea, the Wadden Sea or the island's landscape. Below are the finest spots to take in the view.

The IJzeren Kaap near Oosterend is a remarkable national monument and former sea beacon offering a stunning view over the Wadden Sea. What makes the IJzeren Kaap so special? - Historic Sea Beacon: Designed in 1854 by architect Quirinus Harder, who later also built the Texel Lighthouse. The beacon served as a non-illuminated navigation mark for shipping. - Historic ...

The viewpoint Prins Hendrikzanddijk, located just south of Oudeschild, is a unique place where nature, safety, and relaxation come together. This viewing point is part of the large-scale coastal reinforcement that protects Texel from the power of the Wadden Sea, while also creating space for new nature. What can you expect at the viewpoint Prins Hendrikzanddi ...

A viewpoint in the heart of Texel, where you can experience the nature of Waalenburg up close – without having to walk far. What to expect at viewpoint De Staart -

In the heart of nature reserve De Muy, you’ll find one of the most beautiful viewpoints on Texel – a place of peace, open space, and rich birdlife. What to expect at viewpoint De Muy - Panoramic Views: From the platform you can look out over dunes, valleys, and the bird-rich Muyplas. - Birdwatching: In spring, spoonbills, avocets, and egrets nest here – don’t ...

Enjoy peace, open space, and birdsong at the birdwatching screen Dorpszicht, just southeast of De Cocksdorp – a beautiful spot for bird lovers. What to expect at birdwatching screen Dorpszicht -

A beautiful viewpoint on top of a high dune, right in the heart of the nature of the Eierlandse Dunes – offering panoramic views of the sea, beach and lighthouse. What to expect at Viewpoint Texel North? -

A beautiful spot to watch birds without disturbing them, located near the Texel Lighthouse. What to expect at the viewing screen? - Unique Birdwatching Spot: On the northern side of the Renvogelveld, just a 200-metre walk from Vuurtorenweg, you’ll find a viewing screen overlooking a wet marshland area – perfect for undisturbed bird observation. - Birds in Every ...

Hidden within the forest area of De Dennen lies the Bleekerij: a tranquil oasis of grasslands, water, and woodland where birds, cattle, and calm coexist. What can you expect at birdwatching screen Bleekerij? - Birdwatching screen: At the edge of the area, you'll find a sheltered hide where you can spot ducks, geese, and even birds of prey. -
» View our complete 'see & do' list with many more museums, attractions, monuments and other places of interest.