Zeeland

 

The unique interplay on the Zeeland islands between sea and land affords an unbelievable diversity in nature, as well as recreational areas. The beautiful scenic areas offer fantastic cycling and walking options through the dunes, over the dikes, along the salt marshes and mud flats, or through the vast polders. Would you rather be on the water? Over 1/3 of the Zeeland Delta consists of water, which means excellent water sports options: surfing, sailing, diving, swimming, fishing, canoeing and much more: in Zeeland you can do it all!

Impressive Delta works
Zeeland is virtually totally under sea level. After various floods (the last one was in 1953) the Delta works were constructed, marking the largest and most impressive project in the battle against the water. It's not for nothing that the Delta works were once called the eighth wonder of the world. For example, the Haringvliet sluices in Stellendam are the largest in the world. Also imposing is the Oosterschelde storm surge barrier, definitely one of the largest constructions in the world. When you are on the Oosterschelde storm surge barrier, a visit to the Delta Park De Neeltje Jans is definitely worth your while!

Salty delights
Zeeland is famous for its fresh products from the sea. The most well-known is the Zeeland mussel, an absolutely delicious delicacy. But dishes such as Oosterschelde lobster, Stellendam shrimp, oysters, cockles, glasswort and sea lavender are also typical salty Zeeland delicacies. And you definitely wouldn’t want to miss the Zeeland mussel and fishing feasts, which are usually held in July and August.

Golden sandy beaches
Zeeland boasts a good 70 kilometres of clean, golden sandy beaches. It's no wonder that the expansive, wide sandy beaches in Zeeland have already been designated as one of the cleanest beaches in the Netherlands for the fourth time. There is a great diversity of lovely sandy beaches and dunes, which are just perfect for children. On the beaches you can find various beach cafés, where you can watch the sun go down while enjoying a bite and a drink.

Cosy cities and towns
On the coastline you will find countless cosy little towns where you can shop, relax on a pavement café or get the feel of the local culture. Why not visit the picturesque towns of Sluis, Hulst, Goes or Goedereede. Zeeland also features many old trading centres boasting a rich VOC past. Visit the lovely abbey in Middelburg, climb the fat tower (dikke toren) in Zierikzee, or have a look inside the Scottish Huizen van Veere.