Discover fallow deer, walking events and clean beaches
When autumn descends on Zandvoort, the famous seaside resort transforms into a paradise for nature lovers. While you enjoy the fresh sea breeze on the 9 km long sandy beach, the surrounding dune areas invite you to make exciting discoveries. From the impressive rutting of fallow deer to charity walks along the coast – here you can experience the real wild side of Zandvoort.
Wildlife in the Waterleidingduinen
Just a few kilometres south of the centre lies the vast Waterleidingduinen, home to the largest fallow deer population in the Netherlands. ‘In autumn, you can hear the male deer bellowing and see fierce male-to-male fights,’ says the nature guide from Visit Zandvoort. During a two-hour guided wildlife excursion, you will venture off the beaten track to the places 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.
© Brothers united
Beach Cleanups with Juttersgeluk
Want to contribute to a cleaner North Sea coast? Then join the Beach Cleanups organised by environmental initiative Juttersgeluk. Several times a week, you will walk along the water under supervision and collect plastic waste, which is then transformed into creative products in their studio. ‘Together, we turn pollution into valuable raw materials,’ say the volunteers. The starting point is the striking yellow container next to the De Haven van Zandvoort beach pavilion.
Peace, seals and a dog-friendly beach
If you are looking for ultimate tranquillity, visit the enclosed 3 km long Noordvoort nature reserve. Walk from the beach to the reserve via a narrow dune path and spot seals resting on the sandbank.
Dog lovers will enjoy an autumn walk on the off-leash beach (1 October–15 April) twice as much: here, four-legged friends can run around freely and you can warm up in one of the five winter pavilions. ‘Getting some fresh air with your dog is now even more relaxing in Zandvoort,’ says pavilion owner Petra.
