Nature, dunes and wildlife
When you think of Zandvoort, you probably immediately visualise sun, sea and sand. But Zandvoort also has a surprisingly green side: forests, dunes and the vast nature of the Amsterdam Waterleidingduinen. Here you combine the best of both worlds: cosy coast and pure nature. Ideal for a family holiday and for families who want to escape the hustle and bustle, breathe in the scent of pine trees and the sea and watch deer in the wild.
Land & Sea
From the promenade, it’s a 15-minute bike ride until you find yourself surrounded by rugged dunes or green pines. The dunes slowly turn into forests and the fresh sea air mingles with the scent of earth and moss. In the Waterleidingduinen you enter a different world: quiet sandy paths, hidden lakes and… Deer. Lots and lots of deer. According to local information, the largest population of fallow deer in the Netherlands lives here.
So Zandvoort is not just for swimming and building sandcastles. You can cycle, hike or simply take a leisurely stroll here. Children can climb sand dunes, play among the trees or search for tracks in the forest. An adventure where you discover everything together, step by step.

Natural wealth & wild animals
The Amsterdam water supply dunes are a nature reserve that invites you to come to rest. You walk through the dunes, listen to the wind, smell the pine forest. And then suddenly: open your eyes… A deer is grazing or a fox looks up curiously. Birds flutter through the reeds, squirrels dart across the footpaths. If you are out and about in autumn or early spring, you may experience the spectacle of the rut: male deer call for attention, the sounds echo through the dunes. Exciting and special.
Here you can experience pure tranquillity. No cars, no crowds. Just you, your children and nature.
Cosy & comfortable
After all that walking, cycling and wildlife spotting, you’ll naturally want to relax. Zandvoort has plenty of good options for this: from cosy cafés to child-friendly restaurants by the sea. You are close to the beach, but also have the peace and quiet of the village. It’s especially nice with children: many accommodations are spacious, comfortable and practical. Ideal for a family holiday if you are travelling with your family and still want to enjoy nature. Tip: We stayed at the beautiful Hotel Paradis.

Why Zandvoort is different
Zandvoort is not a standard beach holiday destination. Two worlds gently collide here: the vibrant coastal life with sun and sea and the tranquil, unspoilt nature with forests and dunes. You don’t have to choose. You get both. That’s what makes Zandvoort so special. For children, but also for adults. For families, but also for couples or friends. For anyone looking for peace and quiet without being too far away from everything.
Pack your bag and go
Feel the wind in your hair, smell the salty sea air mixed with pine trees. Hear the crunch of the dune sand under your shoes. Look over the dune crests to the sea. Spot a deer looking at you curiously. Fancy experiencing Zandvoort in a different way? Visit the Waterleidingduinen, walk, cycle, take a deep breath. Bring your children, book a lovely stay and discover the green side of Zandvoort together.
Plan your visit, go on an adventure and let yourself be surprised!

Tips
- The dunes are accessible from sunrise to sunset
- A visit during the rutting season in October makes the dunes something very special
- Parking is easy at the entrance to the dunes
- Simply book your stay on the VVV Zandvoort booking page

Read Sylvi’s full blog on her website
This text was generated with the assistance of AI.










