Vuurboetsduin - Nature

A climb of the Vuurboetsduin is an absolute must during your stay on Vlieland.

Why a visit to the Vuurboetsduin should not be missed

• Highest dune of the Wadden Islands: At 45 metres above sea level, the Vuurboetsduin is the highest dune on the Dutch Wadden Islands and even the third highest dune in all of the Netherlands – only the dunes of Schoorl and Zoutelande are higher.
• Iconic lighthouse: Atop the dune stands the bright‑red lighthouse of Vlieland, also known as de Vuurboet. Because of the dune’s elevation, this relatively small tower is visible from a great distance.
• Breathtaking views: The Vuurboetsduin offers three viewpoints:
  - West side: Views over the forest of Lange Paal, the North Sea and on clear days even Texel.
  - South side: Beautiful perspective over the village Oost‑Vlieland, the Wadden Sea and ships resting at low tide in the bend of the island.
  - North side: Panorama view of the woodland around the village, the dunes and the North Sea.
• Observation tower: At the top of the dune there is also an additional observation tower that offers an even wider perspective over the island, the Wadden Sea and the surrounding islands.
• Cheese bunker: Close to the lighthouse is a former water storage bunker that now serves as a ripening room for artisanal cheeses. On certain days this special place is also open for visits.

Nature experience on and around the Vuurboetsduin

• Diverse landscape: Walking across the Vuurboetsduin you experience transitions from woodland to dunes, heath and open sand plains – each season different.
• Flora: Here you can find:
  • Scots pines, birches and oaks along the edge of the woods.
  • Sea buckthorn, marram grass and flowering herbs on the slopes.
  • Expansive heathlands and mosses that turn purple in late summer.
• Fauna: During your walk you may spot among others:
  • Gulls, terns, robins and songbirds.
  • Buzzards and kestrels above the dunes.
  • Rabbits, foxes and even deer among the trees.
  • Colourful butterflies, sand bees and other insects in summer.
• Unique nature experience: Because of the height and location you experience several landscapes in a short time and get an extraordinary view.

Practical information

• Location: The Vuurboetsduin is right on the edge of Oost‑Vlieland and is easily accessible on foot from the village via the Vuurboetsplein.
• Accessibility: Freely accessible; the climb is short but steep.
• Tip: Bring your camera – this is one of the most beautiful viewpoints of the entire Wadden Sea!

A mix of nature, culture and history

A visit to the Vuurboetsduin combines impressive nature with cultural heritage and beautiful vistas, making it a unique experience on Vlieland.

Experience Vlieland from great heights and let yourself be surprised by the panoramic view from the Vuurboetsduin – the natural highlight of the island.

Furthermore Vuurboetsduin is near the following sights: Het Woeste Westen (±80 m), Lighthouse of Vlieland (±225 m), St. Nicholas Church (±300 m), Cheese Bunker (±300 m) & Old Town Hall (±300 m).

For information

Vuurboetsplein, Vlieland