Vliehors - Nature
The Vliehors is one of the most impressive and unique nature areas of Vlieland.
What makes the Vliehors so special?
- Gigantic sand plain: This vast sandy area covers around 24 square kilometres and is affectionately called the Sahara of the North. The immense open space and sweeping views give you the feeling of being in a completely different world.
- Military training ground: A large part of the Vliehors is used by the Royal Air Force and their NATO partners. The training ground is officially known as the Cornfield Range. Here, pilots practise with ammunition and explosives. Therefore, the Vliehors is only freely accessible at weekends when the red flag is lowered.
- Un-Dutch landscape: The endless sand plains, the silence, and the horizon that is hardly interrupted make the Vliehors a place that feels almost otherworldly.
Discover the Vliehors with the Vliehors Expres
A comfortable and adventurous way to explore this special area is with the Vliehors Expres, a large truck that takes you across the sand.
- Sweeping views: During the trip you will experience the vastness of the Vliehors and learn more about the unique nature and history of this area.
- Visit to the Drenkelingenhuisje: A real highlight of the tour is the stop at the Drenkelingenhuisje. This former shelter for shipwreck survivors is now set up as an atmospheric beachcomber museum.
- The westernmost point of Vlieland: The trip takes you all the way to the far west of the island, where you can almost touch Texel. From here, you have a stunning view over the North Sea and the Wadden Sea.
- Seal spotting: Around the tip of the Vliehors, seals are often seen swimming. The chances are high that you will encounter these curious animals during the excursion in their natural habitat.
- Recommended for: Nature lovers, photographers, families, and anyone who enjoys a unique experience in nature.
Practical information
- Access: Freely accessible at weekends, when no military exercises take place (red flag lowered).
- Walking: A good starting point for a walk across the Vliehors is dune crossing Reddingbootpad, located at the end of the Postweg.
A visit to the Vliehors is more than just an excursion – it is an adventure through a landscape you would not expect to find in the Netherlands. Whether you come for the nature, the history, or simply the special atmosphere, the Vliehors leaves a lasting impression.