Kroon’s Polders - Nature
The Kroon’s Polders form a unique nature reserve in the western part of Vlieland, near the Posthuys and the vast sandplain of the Vliehors.
What makes the Kroon’s Polders so special?
- Four different polders: Three of the polders are brackish (salt and fresh water), while one contains fresh water because it is connected to the Wadden Sea. These transitions make the area ecologically unique.
- Rich plant life: In the first polder, calcareous water flows in from the Meeuwenduinen. Here you will find a colourful variety of plants and flower-rich meadows, which are mown annually to preserve them.
- Bird paradise: Around 120 bird species breed in the Kroon’s Polders. These include cormorants, spoonbills, eider ducks, meadow pipits and avocets. With some luck, you may even spot the elusive water rail.
- Unique resting area: At high tide, birds seek rest on the low-lying, bare spots in the polders. This makes the area an essential place for migratory birds.
Walking and exploring
Although you are not allowed to walk freely inside the Kroon’s Polders, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the beauty of the area.
- 7.5 km walking route: There is a beautiful route around the Kroon’s Polders. You will enjoy wide views, walk a stretch along the North Sea beach and along the Wadden Sea.
- Bird hide: Halfway along the route you’ll find bird hide ‘De Vogelkieker’. Here you can watch birds up close without disturbing them.
- Viewing screen: On the last sand dike (4th Polder) there is a viewing screen. From there you can also watch the birds well, without disturbing them.
- Starting point: The walk begins at the Postweg, near the Posthuys. Follow the blue markers for the full route.
History of the Kroon’s Polders
The origin of the Kroon’s Polders has a remarkable story.
- 1850 – Storms and breaches: Severe storms broke gaps in the dunes near the Posthuys. Vlieland was then only 750 metres wide and the valleys were completely flooded.
- Dikes and polders: To prevent further flooding, sand dikes were constructed. Under the direction of P.A. Kroon of Rijkswaterstaat, the dikes were laid further apart to make farming possible. This failed due to the wet conditions, but the polders remained.
- Nature reserve: Eventually Staatsbosbeheer took over the area and developed it into a valuable nature reserve.
Practical information
- Location: The Kroon’s Polders are located on the western side of Vlieland, at the end of the Postweg, near the Posthuys and the Vliehors.
Visit the Kroon’s Polders and experience a unique part of Vlieland where nature, birds and history come together. An unforgettable experience for young and old!
Furthermore Kroon’s Polders is near the following sights: Birdwatching Hide De Vogelkieker (±850 m), Viewpoint Bomenland (±1,0 km), Birdwatching Hide Dodemansbol (±1,3 km) & Birdwatching Screen Kroon’s Polder (±1,3 km).
For information
Postweg, Vlieland
Display Kroon’s Polders