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Zuid-Kennemerland National Park
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Zuid-Kennemerland National Park stretches along the North Sea coast between Zandvoort and IJmuiden, covering an area of approximately 38 square kilometers. The area is characterized by a diverse dune landscape, ranging from young mobile dunes to stabilized, forested inner dunes. The park was established in 1995 to protect this valuable coastal ecosystem and its rich biodiversity. A unique feature of the park is the introduction of European bison (wisents) in 2007, which help manage the landscape through natural grazing. In addition to bison, the area is home to Konik horses, Highland cattle, and numerous deer species. Historically, the park contains remains of the Atlantic Wall from World War II, including several preserved bunkers. Today, the national park serves as an essential recreational destination for the Amsterdam metropolitan area, featuring an extensive network of hiking and cycling paths through pristine nature.
- Location: North Holland, Netherlands
- Top sights: Kennemerstrand · Bloemendaal aan Zee · Naaktstrand
- Nearby: IJmuiden (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 5 | 5 | 6 | 9 | 12 | 15 | 18 | 18 | 16 | 13 | 9 | 6 |
| Rain mm | 82 | 69 | 56 | 41 | 56 | 63 | 80 | 96 | 78 | 93 | 90 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is freely accessible and gives a network of hiking and cycling trails. Visitor centers like in Overveen provide information about the area and wildlife.
Typical hours
The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Visitor centers usually operate from 9:30 am to 5:00 pm with seasonal variations.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the park. The dune landscape has handy conditions for landscape photography, especially with low sun angles.
Time needed
A short hike through the dunes takes about one hour. For a longer tour to the beaches and viewpoints, allow half a day.
Combine with
The park borders the North Sea coast and the city of Haarlem - combine nature with a city trip. The nearby Bloemendaal aan Zee beach is also worth a visit.
Getting there
The park is reachable by car via the A9; parking at entrances (e.g. Overveen). Train (Overveen station) and buses also serve the area.
Insider tip
Bring binoculars to watch the birdlife (e.g. sea eagles and spoonbills). The park is windy - pack a windproof jacket, even in summer.
Geography
Facts
- The national park was officially established in 1995.
- The total area covers approximately 3,800 hectares of dunes.
- European bison (wisents) were introduced to the park in 2007.
- The highest point is the Hazenberg dune at 45 meters above sea level.
- The park provides habitat for over 100 different bird species.
- More than 2 million people visit the park annually for recreation.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Zuid-Kennemerland National Park (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Zuid-Kennemerland National Park located?
On the coast of North Holland, west of Haarlem.
Can you see bison there?
Yes, a herd of European bison lives in a fenced area (Kraansvlak).
Are there beaches in the park?
Yes, the park borders the North Sea with wide sandy beaches like Parnassia.
Is cycling allowed in the park?
Yes, there is a well-developed network of paved bicycle paths through the dunes.
Is there parking available?
Yes, at the main entrances like Koevlak or Parnassia, there are paid parking lots.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park: where is it located?
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park is located in North Holland, Netherlands.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kennemerstrand, Bloemendaal aan Zee, Naaktstrand.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Zuid-Kennemerland National Park stretches along the North Sea coast between Zandvoort and IJmuiden, covering an area of approximately 38 square kilometers.
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