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Unique Landscapes
The (Hidden) Beauties of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen
As you drive through Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, you’ll surely notice: the landscape is incredibly varied. From expansive beaches on the North Sea, polders, dikes, and creeks, to salt marshes and mudflats along the Western Scheldt.
The natural and historical connections are characteristic of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen. The region boasts many unique natural gems in the form of salt marshes, creeks, and areas outside the dikes. These are often remnants of a lost battle with the sea or the result of conflicts with occupiers, such as the Spanish. The creeks, lines, forts, and fortifications give a sense of structure and protection. But at the same time, they are open, which ensures that these borders also create a sense of connectedness.
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Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe
In the east of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen you’ll find the Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe. An overwhelming nature reserve where time seems to stand still and nature takes center stage. In this salt marsh area of no less than 36 km2 (the largest in Europe), you experience the rhythm of ebb and flow, the influence of the sea and the Scheldt with all your senses. Here you feel the power of the tides, smell the salty water, and experience the magic of a landscape that is constantly changing.
This mysterious area, once inhabited and even home to a castle, tells stories of battles against the water and against foreign rulers. Today, it is a paradise for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers. Please note: Saeftinghe is not your average walking spot. Due to the deep channels and treacherous mud, a guided excursion is the best and safest way to explore this natural treasure.
Fancy an afternoon at the beach?
For residents of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, that’s completely normal. A quick trip to the coast and back, with no traffic jams. The beach is seventeen kilometers long, wide, very clean, and features characteristic seaside resorts. Every year, our beaches rank in the top ten cleanest beaches in the Netherlands. On the beach itself, you’ll find several cozy beach pavilions. The perfect place to enjoy the view and a tasty snack or drink—even in the winter months. Do you enjoy working in hospitality? Then you’ll find plenty of opportunities along the coast!
Especially in summer, the seaside resorts are pleasantly busy. Groede is an artistic village in a historic setting. The maritime Breskens offers everything for the bold sailor and true gourmet. Nieuwvliet is the ultimate family seaside resort, and Cadzand overlooks the beautiful nature of the 't Zwin nature reserve on the border with Flanders. Moreover, Cadzand has an international character.
Not only are the North Sea beaches well known, but it’s also wonderful to relax along the Western Scheldt. Watching boats after your workday or taking a quick dip? No problem! Within a few minutes, you’re at the water’s edge.
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Hulst
In addition to the unique landscape of Saeftinghe, the municipality of Hulst has much more to offer. Not only are the fortifications of Hulst special to visit, but the surrounding villages also have beautiful nature.
Terneuzen
Terneuzen is surrounded by water. It’s no surprise that there’s plenty to do and experience on and around the water. For example, you can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding on the Otheense Kreek. Even a 15 km trip is possible here!
Sluis
Besides the beautiful and clean beaches, there are plenty of other nature areas to discover. For example, we call the 't Zwin nature reserve the ‘international airport for birds’. A visit to 't Zwin is a journey of discovery full of surprises.
