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When autumn descends on Zandvoort, the famous seaside resort is transformed into a paradise for nature lovers. Whilst you enjoy the fresh sea breeze on the 9-kilometre-long sandy beach, the surrounding dune areas invite you to make exciting discoveries. From the impressive rutting of fallow deer to walks along the beach and unique nature reserves: in autumn, you can experience the truly wild side of Zandvoort.
Book a wildlife walk
Just a few kilometres south of the town centre lie the vast Waterleidingduinen, home to the largest fallow deer population in the Netherlands. “In autumn, you can hear the male deer ‘bellowing’ and witness fierce male-to-male battles,” explains the nature guide from Visit Zandvoort. On a two-hour guided wildlife excursion, you’ll venture off the beaten track to the spots where the deer gather during the rutting season. Tickets cost €15 and can be booked online via Visit Zandvoort. Private tours are also available on request.
Book a beach clean-up
Would you like to help keep the North Sea coast cleaner? Then join a beach clean-up organised by the environmental initiative Juttersgeluk. Several times a week, participants walk along the beach under supervision to collect plastic waste. The items found are then given a new lease of life in Juttersgeluk’s creative workshop.
Together, you’ll not only make the beach cleaner, but you’ll also learn more about the impact of litter on the sea and the coast. Simply book a place on one of the organised beach clean-ups.
Check out the walking route to Noordvoort
Anyone looking for peace and space should definitely check out Noordvoort. This three-kilometre-long nature reserve between Zandvoort and Noordwijk is one of the most unspoilt stretches of coastline in the Netherlands. You reach the area via a narrow dune path, where nature takes centre stage. With a bit of luck, you might spot seals on the sandbanks. Would you like to explore Noordvoort for yourself? Then follow the walking route and enjoy the dunes, the beach and spectacular views.
Dog lovers get double the enjoyment from an autumn walk in Zandvoort. On the off-leash beach, which is open to dogs from 1 October to 15 April, four-legged friends can run freely along the water’s edge. After a brisk walk, warm up at one of the beach pavilions, which are open all year round. The tranquillity of autumn makes this the ideal time for a relaxing day by the sea with your faithful four-legged friend.
5x hot chocolate
After a long walk through the dunes or along the beach, there’s nothing cosier than settling down with a hot chocolate. In Zandvoort, you’ll find a range of charming beach bars, cafés and restaurants where you can warm up whilst looking out over the sea.
Wondering where to go for the tastiest hot chocolate? Check out our favourite spots.
Turn your autumn visit into a getaway. Discover quiet beaches, beautiful dunes and cosy restaurants and cafés. Choose from hotels, apartments or holiday homes and make the most of Zandvoort in the autumn.
