Posthuiswad - Nature

The Posthuiswad on Vlieland is an impressive nature reserve where you can experience the power of the tides and the richness of the Wadden Sea up close.

What makes the Posthuiswad so special?

• Paradise for bird lovers: The Posthuiswad is one of the best places on Vlieland to spot wading birds. You may encounter the Bar-tailed Godwit, Grey Plover, Curlew Sandpiper, Dunlin, Eurasian Curlew, Oystercatcher, Knot, and even the elegant Spoonbill.
• Birds and the tide: Life in this area is entirely determined by the rhythm of ebb and flow. At low tide the birds forage on the mudflats, often far from the shore. Rising tide is the best time to observe them, as the water pushes them closer to the coastline.
• Unique salt marsh formation: In 1910 the Kroon’s Polders were constructed. This sheltered the mudflats behind the dike, allowing silt to settle. The first salt marsh plants appeared, leading to further accretion. For more than 100 years, a unique salt marsh landscape has been growing here, rising by 0.5 to 1.5 cm per year.

Walking route along the Posthuiswad

The Boswachterspad Posthuiswad – Kroon’s Polder trail by Staatsbosbeheer is highly recommended.

• Length and duration: About 7.5 km, taking around 2 hours of walking.
• Route: Follow the dark blue posts from the Posthuys. The route mainly follows unpaved paths along the Kroon’s Polders, the bird hide De Vogelkieker, the Posthuiswad, a bird screen, the military training ground, the Reddingsbootpad and the Meeuwenduinen.
• Starting point: The Posthuys, on the western side of Vlieland.

Practical information

• Location: Situated on the western side of the island, next to the Kroon’s Polders, this is the perfect spot for bird and nature lovers wanting to discover the magic of the Wadden area.
• Best season: During the great bird migrations in spring and autumn the Posthuiswad is at its most spectacular. You may sometimes see thousands of birds resting or flying overhead in large flocks.
• Best views and visiting time: In the morning the light is often against you, so an afternoon visit offers the best views.
• Pad van de Mast: Want a quick impression of this special area? Walk the Pad van de Mast, which runs from the Posthuys towards the Wadden Sea and along the edge of the Posthuiswad.

Be amazed by the richness of nature, the silence of the mudflats and the impressive bird colonies – an experience you won’t soon forget!

Furthermore Posthuiswad is near the following sights: Kroon’s Polders (±200 m), Bomenland (±300 m), Valley of Malgum (±550 m), Viewpoint Bomenland (±850 m) & Birdwatching Hide De Vogelkieker (±950 m).

For information

Posthuys, Vlieland