32 km long water icon between IJsselmeer and Waddenzee. Those who know the Netherlands a little, know that it has a rich history with water. Characteristic icons such as mills, polders, pumping stations, mounds and dikes are good examples of this. The Afsluitdijk is perhaps the most impressive example of Dutch Delta Design. And with more than 600,000 visitors annually, also one of the most popular waterworks in the Netherlands. The Afsluitdijk has been connecting the provinces of North Holland and Friesland since 1932. The 32-kilometer-long dike runs straight through the sea and thus separates the former Zuiderzee into the current sweet IJsselmeer and the salty Wadden Sea. In addition, the Afsluitdijk shortened the more than 300 kilometers of vulnerable Zuiderzee coast to a safe 32 kilometers. A unique example of hydraulic engineering that we consider Dutch to be quite common. Tens of thousands of people pass the dike every day, with the beautiful Wadden Sea UNESCO World Heritage Site on one side and the IJsselmeer on the other, without realizing how unique it actually is. From functional to attractive. To give the Afsluitdijk the attention it deserves, there are plans to make the water icon not only safer and future-proof, but also more interesting and more of an experience for tourists. Under the motto “one Afsluitdijk, many stories” attention is paid to sustainable energy, nature, cultural history, military heritage, and recreation. With new cycling and walking paths along the Wadden Sea, a facelift for the Vlieter Monument, and a Fish Migration River at Kornwerderzand, the Afsluitdijk will be a real crowd pleaser. For more, see: www.deafsluitdijk.nl See & Do Afsluitdijk Wadden Center In 2018, the Afsluitdijk Wadden Center was opened at Kornwerderzand. Discover, experience and enjoy, these are the keywords of this experience center. It tells the story of (the) life of the Dutch in the Delta, through the ages and with a view to the future of climate change and sea level rise. Visitors make their way through storms from the past to the solutions of today. Experience the mudflats with dry feet and fly over the mudflats like a godwit? It is possible in the exhibition! www.afsluitdijkwaddencenter.nl Walking through ancient Zuiderzee towns and Wadden ports. Beautiful Zuiderzee towns such as Makkum, Workum, Den Oever, Medemblik, Enkhuizen, Stavoren and Hindeloopen are ideal for exploring on foot. The same applies to the Wadden ports of Harlingen and Den Oever. There are plenty of old monuments, beautiful old streets and of course cozy fishing ports and fish restaurants. Mud-walking; walking at the bottom of the sea The Afsluitdijk is located directly on the Waddenzee; one of the richest and most extensive nature reserves in the Netherlands and since 2009 UNESCO World Heritage. It is known for the many special plants, birds and fish and there are plenty of seals to spot. During low water levels, the sandbanks dry up, which makes it possible to walk on the seabed in certain places under the guidance of a Wadden Sea guide. Surrounded by nothing but sea, wind and water, this adventurous walk on the Wadden from Den Oever or the Frisian coast is definitely recommended. Must do: Casemate Museum or Vlieter Monument A visit to the Casemate Museum Kornwerderzand or the Vlieter Monument by the famous Dutch architect Dudok is a special experience and one of the must-do’s when you are on the Afsluitdijk.
De Afsluitdijk
Nearby locations
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Stevinsluizen
There are two lock complexes in the Afsluitdijk: the Lorentz locks on the Frisian side at Kornwerderzand and the Stevinsluizen at Den Oever. The complexes consist of locks, which allow ships to navigate back and forth between the IJsselmeer and Waddenzee, and discharge locks, which discharge excess IJsselmeer water into the Waddenzee at low tide.
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De Wierdijk
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Vis van Havenzicht
At the foot of the Afsluitdijk in Den Oever, you can enjoy the tastiest fish at Vis van Havenzicht with the most expansive view of the fishing port and the Wadden Sea and the ships that pass between the Wadden Sea and the IJsselmeer. Mark and Michel know everything about fish through their years of experience as fishermen, which you will of course find in their range. Delicious baked, (home) smoked and ready-to-cook fresh fish, freshly cut herring, various freshly filled sandwiches, plate menus, fries, fish dishes (on order) and more.
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EcolodgeWieringen
This unique accomadation; The Ecolodge in Oosterland has been realized around a scouting area right at the Waddensea dike. The house is part of a nature plan, called The Waddenparel. The lodge is suitable for 6 persons and has got 3 bedrooms. Two bedrooms with 2 single beds and the other has got a staple bed. There is a bathroom withe a shower and a seperate toilet. Living area with a nice sitting area and the possibility for another 2 persons to stay on the sleeping couch. For rent for a minimum of 3 nights. There is restitution on the rent if you help for one day at the Scou
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Restaurant Bruisend
You have come to the right place at this restaurant for a lively night out. In the renewed young and passionate restaurant you will be surprised by the hospitality, attention, good atmosphere, beautiful decor, quality products and of course the love on the plate! All hot dishes are prepared on the Green Mountain Pellet Grill. This BBQ is fired on wood pellets instead of coal or briquettes. This special mix of pressed wood pellets gives a unique taste to every dish. In addition to the menu, changing seasonal dishes are offered, if possible from the neighborhood.
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Waddenbelevingspunt
“The” viewpoint over the Wadden Sea!
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Wierwadde
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Wijde Waddenzee
Are you looking for a place where you can completely unwind? Our holiday home Wijde Waddenzee is located in one of the most beautiful locations in Wieringen. The house is detached with a large backyard. From the kitchen you have a beautiful view over the Wadden Sea.
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Seal Tour SWRW
A 2,5 hour tour that begins in harbor of Den Oever (Oostkade) and goes along the sluice at the beginning of the Dam, then along to the tidal banks where different species of birds are foraging and resting. After about half an hour we reach the seals. You can admire them in their natural setting.