In the middle of the Randstad, between IJmuiden, Haarlem and Zandvoort, lies the Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, one of 20 National Parks in the Netherlands. This 3,800 hectare vast dune area contains young calcareous dunes, wide beaches and beautiful inner dune forests.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is a Natura 2000 area. An area in which animals and plants are protected to preserve biodiversity. It is therefore first and foremost a unique nature reserve, which you can also recreate in. There are many kilometres of paved cycle paths and marked footpaths. Lovely enjoyment with respect for nature.
Visitor centre
Everything you want to know about South Kennemerland National Park can be found at the Kennemerduinen visitor centre. You can learn interactively which animals and plants live in the area and see a real (stuffed) bison yourself. The visitor centre is located at Zeeweg number 12 in Overveen, at the Koevlak entrance. The adjacent Duincafe is a nice place for a pit stop. While you enjoy your cup of coffee, the children can have fun in the playground next to the terrace.
We chose a walk in the area around the Duin &Kruidberg estate in Santpoort-Noord, the so-called konik route, some 9 kilometres through a varied forest and dune landscape. The dune landscape is especially beautiful. In the park there are several walks . well signposted, of varying length and difficulty. Various starting points, e.g. in Overveen where the visitor centre is located. Very worthwhile.
– Serge –
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During a unique walk over the dune tops of the Kraansvlak in Zuid-Kennemerland National Park, you suddenly come face to face with a herd of primeval cattle. Wisents, the European relatives of the Bison, are grazing in front of you. What an impressive experience to see those 2-metre-high animals from so close up. Definitely something you won’t forget in a hurry. So take that walk through their habitat (September-February) or spot these primeval cattle from the lookout point.
See the Big Five
Apart from wisents, you will encounter many other animals in this area. Special birds, butterflies and dune plants can be found here. You may also encounter rabbits, roe deer, fallow deer and even large grazers such as Konik horses, Scottish Highlanders and wisents. Because nature is allowed to take its course, the sand dunes are constantly moving and the landscape changes from time to time.
The National Park South-Kennemerland is not only a beautiful area for people; birds also like to come here. Because many different birds live in the area and not every bird breeds in the same period, the breeding season is from 1 March to 15 July. During this period, it is very important to follow the rules: stay on the paths, play only where it is allowed, do not climb trees and stay with your dog in the areas where it is allowed. By doing so, you not only help to keep birds in the National Park, but also ensure that other animal species can have their young in peace.
Dogs are not allowed in the national park. But around the NPZK there are plenty of places where you can take your dog.
Paid parking is available at Kennemerduinen visitor centre.
Around the National Park are several old country houses and estates worth visiting.
The area may be entered between sunrise and sunset. Access is free of charge.