At 3,400 hectares, the Amsterdam Water Dunes are one of the largest continuous hiking areas in the Netherlands. The dune area is located between Langevelderslag in Noordwijk and Zandvoort and 2/3 of Amsterdam‘s drinking water is pre-purified in the Water Supply Dunes.
Fifty million cubic metres of drinking water flow through this 3,400-hectare nature reserve every year. It is the oldest water catchment area in the Netherlands. People started extracting water in this dune area in 1853.
Unique nature reserve in Holland
The Amsterdam Water Dunes is a protected natural monument. Peace, space and nature are the main core values of the area. To ensure this, you are only allowed to walk in the area. You are allowed to walk outside the paths everywhere. The Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes is the largest continuous walking area in the Netherlands.
Entrances to the Amsterdam Water Dunes
The dune area has four main entrances. There are catering facilities at the entrances in Vogelenzang and Zandvoort.
- De Zilk in De Zilk: Joppeweg 1
- Pannelang in Vogelenzang: Vogelenzangseduinweg 2
- De Oase in Vogelenzangl Eerste Leijweg 2; hier bevindt zich het bezoekerscentrum De Oranjekom
- Zandvoorstelaan in Zandvoort; Zandvoortselaan 130
To the north is an extensive complet of infiltration canals. To the east, large areas of land are forested. To the south, magnificent sand dunes can be seen.
Dam deer
The Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes has the largest fallow deer population in the Netherlands. It is estimated that around 2,000 fallow deer roam (2011), which is about 0.6 per hectare.
Entrance fees Amsterdam Water Dunes
Day ticket
A day ticket costs €1.50 and can be bought at the pin payment machines at the four main entrances and online here.
Personal annual pass
A personal annual pass is online for sale. Please note:
– Annual Card can start any day of the year
– Is valid for one year from that date
– Everyone receives a personalised annual card in their name
– You receive a temporary annual pass and can immediately enter the dune
– Within two weeks the card at home by post
– No more group or 60+ annual passes
– Children up to 18 years old are free
– Annual pass costs €10
– You can also give an annual pass as a gift
Access conditions
The dune is only for hikers. You are allowed to stroll outside the paths almost everywhere.
- Entry card required (up to 18 years free)
- Access between sunrise and sunset
- Dogs and bicycles not allowed
- Feeding animals not allowed
- Hiking also off the trails
Walking routes in the Duinen
There are several walking routes in the Amsterdam Water Dunes. Below are the different routes.
- Hiking route dune 30 km
This walk lets you enjoy beautiful vistas in the Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes. In 30 kilometres, you get a bit of everything: dune, heath, beach, forest and water. You walk clockwise (anti-clockwise), if you want to walk anti-clockwise (clockwise) click here. You can start at any entrance. The ANWB mushrooms can help you stick to the right route.
Download the Hiking route Rondje duin 30km here.
- Waterfall 2 km
During the water walk, you can see the route water takes in the dunes before it comes out of the tap at your place. The route is about 2 km long and takes an hour.
Download the Water Walk Water Walk 2 km here.
Frequently asked questions – FAQs
What are the opening hours of the Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes?
The Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes are open every day between sunrise and sunset. You are then free to walk everywhere, including off the footpaths.
What does a ticket for the Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes cost?
- A day ticket (from 18 years) costs € 1.50.
- An annual subscription costs € 10.00
- Parking is € 2.00 per day
- Annual parking pass is € 35.00
- Walking map €3.00
- Riding day ticket € 3.00
- Annual riding day pass € 30.00
Where can I see fallow deer?
Fallow deer can be found throughout the Amsterdam Water Dunes.
Where can I find foxes?
Foxes can be found throughout the Amsterdam Water Dunes but are usually much harder to find than deer.
Can I bring a dog?
No, dogs are not allowed in the Amsterdam Water Dunes.
Can you cycle in the Amsterdam Water Dunes?
No, cycling is not allowed.
Are the Amsterdam Water Supply Dunes accessible for prams and wheelchairs?
Yes, from all main entrances are paved roads.
Tips Bollenstreek
Come and enjoy between beach and city and discover Holland from the most beautiful holiday region of the Netherlands. View our tips below.
- Breathe in the healthy sea air and enjoy the beach & dunes in the Netherlands
- Enjoy the colorful flower fields in the Netherlands and Keukenhof Flower Park
- Discover the real Netherlands in the polders & lakes area of the Netherlands
- A day out to a city? You will find no fewer than eight historic Dutch cities around the Bollenstreek
- A day out? Read our Tips for a Day Out?
- Take a look at one of the many museums in and around the Bollenstreek
- Fancy an active day? Enjoy one of the cycling routes and walking routes.
