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), Eenzame boom op Vlieland (±225 m), Lighthouse of Vlieland (±225 m), Bokkendal (±225 m) & St. Nicholas Church (±300 m).

For information

Vuurboetsplein, Vlieland