Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol - Nature

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 grasslands transform into a colourful carpet of flowers where countless meadow birds build their nests.
• Salt-tolerant plants: In the lower-lying areas grow special plants that thrive in brackish water, such as glasswort, sea aster, and red bartsia.
• Tidal creeks and sandbanks: The area is characterised by creeks that fill with seawater at high tide and empty at low tide. This dynamic landscape provides a safe habitat for birds and small marine creatures.
• Birds at high tide: When the tide in the Wadden Sea is high, wading birds move inland to rest and feed safely.
• Viewing point along the Zwinweg: Halfway along the Zwinweg, a side path leads to a viewing point. You can see birds here all year round:
  • In spring, you’ll hear noisy oystercatchers, calling godwits and daring lapwings defending their nests from harriers.
  • In winter, enjoy the sounds of wigeon and see thousands of geese landing in the area.

A rich history

• Historic water management: Once, a windmill regulated the water level in Polder het Noorden. Later, the pumping station De Krassekeet took over this task, causing the brackish character of the area to disappear.
• Nature restoration: In 2005, restoration works deepened the creeks and allowed brackish water to return. Today, sticklebacks swim again, and tidal animals such as periwinkles, shore crabs, and mud snails have reappeared. Salt-tolerant plants like glasswort, sea aster, and red bartsia now thrive once more.
• Name and meaning: Originally, the area was called "De Bol", referring to the rounded plots between the creeks. In 1956, the name was changed to "Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol", in honour of bird protector Jan Drijver (1886–1963).

Practical information

• Location: On the eastern side of Texel, near the hamlet of Oost and just north of Oosterend, directly along the Wadden Sea dike.
• Not accessible, but visible: To preserve the tranquillity, De Bol is not accessible to visitors, but can be viewed perfectly from the Zwinweg or the Wadden Sea dike.
• Best time to visit: Spring for blooming meadows and breeding birds, and winter for geese and ducks that overwinter here.

Come and enjoy the peace, the views, and the birdlife of Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol.

Furthermore Drijvers Vogelweid De Bol is near the following sights: Windmill Het Noorden (±250 m), Viewpoint De Bol (±700 m), Playground Prins Hendrik (±1,1 km), Wagejot (±1,6 km) & St Martin’s Church (±2,4 km).

For information

Zwinweg, Oosterend, Terschelling