These dunes are formed from the remains of the old Wadden island Huisduinen. South of this are the Donkere Duinen. These originated from the small Wadden island of Ooghduinen. The gap between the two islands closed in the 16th century. The Harmplas dune lake is now located here. The Donkere Duinen is a planted pine forest that has transformed into a varied, more natural forest. There is a ring-shaped duck pond with bushes along its banks. It can be quite busy in the Donkere Duinen, because it is the only walking forest in the neighbourhood of Den Helder. The Refugium is a seven-hectare area, which was created by nature development. It lies like a wedge between the buildings of Nieuw Den Helder, the Grafiteitsduinen and the Donkere Duinen. It originated when sports fields were transformed into a new nature area. Now it is really a paradise for special plants. The Grafelijkheidsduinen and the Refugium are grazed by Scottish Highlanders. Some Konik horses also help in the Grafaliteitsduinen. The grazing in these types of areas ensures varied plant growth. In one place the vegetation is kept short and the soil lean and in places where a lot of fertilizer ends up, plants that love a nutrient-rich soil can grow.
Den Helder dunes
Nearby locations
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IJssalon Wim Laan
The oldest ice cream parlor in the Netherlands – a household name since 1920
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Café Dupont
Brown café in the center with darts, pool, live music and sports
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Padel & Racketclub Huisduinen
Paddle boarding by the sea? Book your court now at the club in Huisduinen.
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Bar Style
In the center of Den Helder you will find Bar style. Come and visit us for a drink. We also have a terrace where in the summer season, in collaboration with colleagues on Breewaterplein, regular performances take place which creates a very cozy atmosphere.
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Vomar Voordeelmarkt
For your daily groceries and supplies, head to the Vomar Voordeelmarkt!
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Historisch Documentatiecentrum Marinebedrijven
Het HisDocMB is een afdeling van de Marine Bedrijf Sport- en Ontspanningsvereniging (MBSOV). Zij verzamelen informatie over de historie van de voormalige Koninklijke Marine onderhoudsbedrijven en over activiteiten die plaats vinden bij HisDocMB. Het HisDocMB ondersteunt instellingen, musea, onderzoekers en andere geinteresseerden met informatie en documentatie over de geschiedenis van de Koninklijke Marine onderhoudsbedrijven. Het HisDocMB doet onderzoek naar de geschiedenis van deze bedrijven en verzamelt hiertoe documentatie en beeldmateriaal die een relatie hebben met deze bedrijven.
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Rent en Event Den Helder
Rent an e-chopper, fat bike or tandem and discover Den Helder in your own way
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Stadshuis Gebouw 66
In the heart of Willemsoord stands a must-see building: Den Helder City Hall. Housed in the historic mast shed, once part of the Royal Netherlands Navy, it is now an open and inspiring space for residents and visitors alike. As soon as you walk in, you're struck by the light, the space, and the wooden support structure. You sense the history, but also the renewed energy. Simply step inside. Exhibitions are often on display – from art and photography to local stories. The program is constantly changing, so there's always something new to discover. The architecture is also remarkable. Old elements have been preserved and combined with modern materials. Think of a steel facade, a three-story atrium, and workspaces with water views. What makes this building particularly appealing is its sustainable character. The mast shed and sailmaker's workshop have been thoroughly renovated for sustainability, with solar panels, smart installations, and a thermal energy storage system. The sailmaker's workshop is even energy-neutral. This is an example of how heritage and sustainability can go hand in hand. A place with character, substance, and an inviting program. Go there, take your time, and be surprised.
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Balgzand
Nowhere in North Holland is bird life as rich as on Balgzand. The land here is wide and beautiful. From a number of points on the sea dyke you have a beautiful view of the mudflats. A good point to look at is ’t Kuitje Information Centre on the Oostoeverweg in Den Helder. Note the tides, for with rising water the thousands of birds fly in large swirling clouds towards the dike to spend time there.