Utopia - Nature

Utopia is a unique inland nature reserve on Texel, specially designed as a bird sanctuary and a true hotspot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

What makes the nature reserve Utopia so special?

• Breeding ground for terns and waders: On the shell beaches of Utopia breed sandwich terns, avocets, common terns and ringed plovers. Each spring volunteers carefully clear the area to provide the birds with a safe nesting place.
• Refuge at high tide: During storm or spring tides, birds from the salt marshes of De Schorren and the Wadden Sea fly to Utopia, where they can safely wait until the water recedes. With rising sea levels, such places are of immeasurable value.
• Varied landscape: The area consists of creeks, islets, mud edges and shell banks. The brackish water, where rainwater mixes with seepage from the Wadden Sea, creates a rich habitat with plenty of food for birds.
• Rich flora and fauna: In the reed beds species such as the reed warbler, marsh harrier and bluethroat can be found. In winter, brent geese and wigeon feed on the grasslands, while in summer meadow birds make their nests. Rare plants such as the early marsh orchid, yellow rattle and adder’s-tongue fern also grow here.
• Origin of the name: Utopia was named after the nearby farm. The area was once just grassland, but in 2010–2011 it was transformed by Natuurmonumenten into today’s bird paradise.

Practical information

• Location: Utopia is situated on the eastern side of Texel, directly behind the Wadden dike and just south of the salt marsh area De Schorren.
• Accessibility: The reserve itself is not open for walking, but from the Lancasterdijk you have a perfect view of the creeks and the many birds. Parking spaces are available here as well.
• Cycling routes: Cycle the 32 km long Texel Route and pass by Utopia and other remarkable nature reserves along the way.

Utopia is a reserve where birds find a safe place all year round, and where visitors gain a unique insight into the special ecosystem of Texel. It perfectly illustrates how nature management and conservation go hand in hand.

Visit Utopia and discover for yourself why this inland bird reserve is one of the natural gems of Texel!

Furthermore Utopia is near the following sights: De Schorren (±1,2 km), Speeltuin Prins Hendrik (±1,3 km), Windmill Het Noorden (±2,2 km), Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol (±2,4 km) & Uitzichtpunt De Bol (±2,7 km).

For information

Lancasterdijk, Oosterend, Texel