Walk: South Holland Dunes and WWII Atlantic Wall (15km)
The dunes of South Holland near Katwijk aan Zee are part of a beautiful area of sandy hills and woods. It is close to the big cities and yet vast and well preserved. An extensive network of paths takes us through coniferous woodlands and open dune fields with surprising views. The flora and fauna is typical for a semi-open dune landscape. If you are an observant walker, you can spot rabbits, foxes, deer, squirrels, lizzards and many species of birds here. The dunes form an important barrier against the occasionally wild and rising North Sea, since one third of the Netherlands lies below sea level.
During our walk we will encounter remains of the famous Atlantic wall. The Atlantic wall is an extensive system of coastal defence and fortifications built by Nazi Germany between 1942 and 1944. The first part of our walk will be on the beach, than we head into the peaceful dune landscape. On our way back to Katwijk aan zee we will walk on a anti tank wall. A part of the Atlantic wall that is left from WWII.
UNPLUG AND EXPLORE
During this walk we “unplug & explore”. A part of the walk will be in silence. It offers you the chance to connect with others who want to experience nature fully and deeply. By choosing to stay away from friendly chit-chat and explore what it’s like to walk in nature without speaking, we have a chance to engage our senses more fully and to truly connect with the natural world.
• WHAT IS INCLUDED
Guided tour through the Holland Dune Nature Area by Giulia. In case of emergency you can reach her at: 06 490 21 1 10
• WHAT TO BRING
Rain jacket, camera, something to eat/ drink, layers of clothing. We’ll have a break in the dunes to eat something (food is not included). Please invest in a reusable water bottle and don’t bring plastic single use water bottles.
• WHERE DO WE MEET
Katwijk, Boulevard-Zuid, 2225 JM Katwijk aan Zee. (last stop of bus nr. 31 from Leiden Central Station). Parking nearby is also possible: 1,8 euro per hour (Parking Zuidduinen). Please visit https://9292.nl for info about public transportation.
Starting point = ending point
• IMPORTANT TO KNOW
We are LEAVING at 11.00 and we finish around 16.00. All participants (members and their guests) on any of Nature Connects walks or activities are personally responsible for their own fitness, safety and welfare and must be equipped accordingly. Payments are non-refundable.
