Best lakes around Goeree-Overflakkee, an island in the Dutch province of South Holland, offers diverse water landscapes. The region is characterized by significant water bodies like the Grevelingenmeer and Haringvliet. These areas provide varied experiences for nature enthusiasts and outdoor activities. The island's geography makes it a destination for exploring different aquatic environments.
Last updated: August 18, 2026
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Pure nature, accompanied by sheep while cycling
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The old port of Zierikzee is a beautiful and historic part of this Zeeland city. Located in the heart of Zierikzee, on the east side of the island of Schouwen-Duiveland, the old harbor plays a central role in the maritime history and character of the city. The old harbor bears witness to Zierikzee's rich past as a thriving trading city. During the Middle Ages and the Golden Age (17th century), Zierikzee was an important center for trade and shipping, and the port was the beating heart of these activities. Along the quay of the old harbor there are characteristic, historic buildings with traditional architecture. The combination of the old stone buildings, the quay and the water gives the area a picturesque and picturesque appearance. Some of the buildings along the old harbor are Grade II listed and have retained their historic features. These architectural treasures tell the story of the prosperity and importance of Zierikzee in earlier times. #WandelTotaal
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The old harbor in Zierikzee is a characteristic part of this historic city in the province of Zeeland, the Netherlands. Zierikzee has a rich maritime heritage and the old port plays an important role. Here are some features and things to know about the Old Port: The old harbor is located in the heart of Zierikzee and is known for its synthetic and picturesque appearance. Along the quay you will see historic buildings and traditional sailing ships mooring. Zierikzee has a long history as a trading city and flourished during the Middle Ages and the Golden Age (17th century). The old port bears witness to this history and recalls the times when trade and shipping were essential to the prosperity of the city. Along the old harbor you will find several monumental buildings that reflect the prosperity and trading activities of the past. Some of these buildings still retain their historic features and architecture. The old harbor is often a lively place where tourists and locals come together. There are often cozy restaurants, cafes and shops nearby, making it an attractive place to walk and enjoy the surroundings. The old port of Zierikzee is sometimes used as a location for events, markets or festivals, making it a vibrant place. #WandelTotaal
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We love this bike route. From Scharendijke across the island to the south. Then along the Oosterschelde over dykes and directly past the water. Sometimes you share the path with sheep and cows. Then stroll in Zierikzee and across the island back to Scharendijke. A total of about 40 km. When the sun is shining, the water is wonderfully blue and you can hear it rushing next to you all the time.
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Sometimes straight, then winding over gravel paths. Enjoying an open landscape together where people and animals can get to know each other from a distance. Unfortunately, this segment is NOT ACCESSIBLE for DOGS. During our multiple visits to this nature reserve, we have to conclude that dog owners don't care about that. Dog faeces and urine disturb the habitat of this beautiful animal paradise. Respect? Description of the nature reserve: Open, bumpy, birds, flowers and butterflies. These are the Vroongronden between Renesse and Haamstede. You will find 'high' dry dunes with dune grasslands, wet low troughs and creeks. Here and there are pools from which frogs croak in the spring. The Vroongronden are popular with deer and fallow deer: the animals are mainly active at dusk. At that time, go into the area. Source: signpost Staatsbosbeheer Schouwen-Duiveland ... Due to a technical malfunction of Komoot, the indicated distance of the segment is incorrect. In reality, the track is about 3 km long.
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Incredibly beautiful bike path in a fantastically beautiful landscape 👍🚲
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Open, bumpy, birds, flowers and butterflies. These are the Vroon grounds between Renesse and Haamstede. You will find 'high' dry kops dunes with dune grasslands, wet low rifts and creeks. Here and there are pools from which frogs croak in the spring. The Vroon grounds are popular with deer and fallow deer: the animals are mainly active at dusk. Go into the area around that time. Source: Staatsbosbeheer Schouwen-Duiveland signpost
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The Havenkanaal and the Nieuwe Haven outside the gate complex (North and South Harbor Gate) were dug in 1597-1599. Because the Gouwe, from the Zuidhavenpoort and Noordhavenpoort via the Sas to the Dijkwater, silted up and therefore became virtually inaccessible for ships, a new waterway was dug to the city. The city canal (now the Nieuwe Haven) was widened and provided with a quay wall as a mooring place for ships. The official opening took place on March 13, 1599. The Old Port, which is directly connected to the New Port and the Port Canal (to the Oosterschelde), is a real tidal port where the difference in water level varies from 3 to 3.5 meters. Historical interpretation in a nutshell: The quay walls, neglected during the French period, were restored in 1815/1816. The high costs associated with maintenance, but especially the fact that the Oude Haven was used less and less, were the reason to close the Schuithaven, part of the Swimming Harbor located to the north and the Oude Haven from the Mole in 1871 and 1872. until just past the Vrijpoortje. This created Havenplein. The plan to also fill the part up to the first wooden bridge at Kraanplein was rejected by one vote in the municipal council. In 1891, the remaining part of the Oude Haven up to Kraanplein was filled in, allowing the Havenpark to be constructed. The wooden drawbridge had already been demolished before, around 1890. Old postcards usually show an almost empty Old Port. The First World War is an exception. At that time, ships belonging to Flemish fishermen who had fled the violence of war were moored here. In the 1950s, houseboats were moored in the Old Port. The last houseboat disappeared in 1990. In 1989/1990, a large part of the sludge was dredged away. In 1992, the floating Museum Harbor was opened in the old port. The Old Port is now furnished with a number of historic ships. With both port gates in the background, this part of the port has been brought back to life to the delight of many. This makes it clear that Zierikzee also has sailing monuments. The museum harbor has become a beautiful floating museum. Ships that have been restored or still need to be restored, but also historical 'passers-by' moor here. This gives the Zierikzee museum a different view every time.
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The region is rich in wildlife. At the Grevelingenmeer, you can spot flamingos during winter months (October to April), especially near Battenoord. Seal safaris are also available to observe seal colonies, and you might even see deer swimming between islands. The Haringvliet is a birdwatcher's paradise, with the "Tij" bird observatory near Stellendam offering views of breeding birds like terns, spoonbills, and sea eagles. The Beningerslikken Nature Reserve near Haringvliet is home to over 150 bird species, including great egrets and purple herons. The Vroongronden Nature Reserve is known for its diverse birdlife, frogs, deer, and fallow deer.
Yes, the Grevelingenmeer is a prime destination for water sports. Its vastness and clear blue waters make it ideal for sailing, windsurfing, diving, and fishing. The Brouwersdam, connecting Goeree-Overflakkee and Schouwen-Duiveland, is a popular spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. You can also enjoy snorkeling safaris to explore the underwater world of the Grevelingenmeer.
The Haringvliet is exceptional for birdwatching. The "Tij" bird observatory near Stellendam, shaped like a large tern egg, provides a 360-degree panoramic view of the Haringvliet and its crucial breeding areas for various birds. Additionally, the Beningerslikken Nature Reserve, a wetland area around the Haringvliet, hosts over 150 bird species. The Vroongronden Nature Reserve also offers diverse birdlife.
Absolutely. Tiengemeten Island in the Haringvliet region features a large nature playground and a Visitors' Center with educational resources. The harbor head of Middelharnis also has a nature-experience playground. For general outdoor enjoyment, the Oosterschelde National Park is considered family-friendly, offering relaxed areas for cycling and exploring nature. Many viewpoints, like the View over the Grevelingenmeer, are easily accessible for families.
The View over the Grevelingenmeer offers brilliant perspectives of the largest saltwater lake in Western Europe. The Haringvlietdam, part of the Dutch Delta Works, is an impressive hydraulic structure and a significant landmark. The "Tij" bird observatory near Stellendam provides a 360-degree view of the Haringvliet. The Oosterschelde National Park is a natural monument with dynamic mudflats and sandbanks, offering unique natural features.
There are numerous trails for various activities. For running, you can find moderate trails like the Grevelingen Lake – Brouwersdam Cycle Path loop. Mountain biking enthusiasts can explore routes such as the Marina on Lake Grevelingen – Ouddorp Observation Tower loop. Road cyclists have options like the Brouwersdam Coastal Bike Path loop or the extensive 'Around Goeree Overflakkee' route. You can find more details on these and other routes in the Running Trails around Goeree-Overflakkee, MTB Trails around Goeree-Overflakkee, and Road Cycling Routes around Goeree-Overflakkee guides.
Many areas around the lakes offer good accessibility. For instance, free parking is available year-round at popular spots like Grevelingendam and Brouwersdam, making it easy to access the Grevelingenmeer. This ensures convenient access for visitors arriving by car.
The Oosterschelde National Park is a natural monument located south of the Grevelingenmeer. It is unique because it's openly connected to the North Sea via a storm surge barrier. Twice daily, 800 billion liters of saltwater flow in and out, creating a dynamic environment of mudflats and sandbanks that are submerged at high tide and exposed at low tide. This tidal nature makes it a fascinating area for nature observation and cycling.
Yes, fishing is possible in certain areas, such as the Beningerslikken Nature Reserve near the Haringvliet. However, you will typically need a permit to fish in these protected natural areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before planning your fishing trip.
The Vroongronden Nature Reserve is known for its open, bumpy terrain, diverse birdlife, and beautiful flowers. It features 'high' dry kops dunes with dune grasslands, wet low rifts, and creeks, with pools where frogs croak in the spring. It's also a popular spot for deer and fallow deer, which are most active at dusk. The Vroonweg Gravel Path meanders through this reserve, offering a scenic route for cyclists and hikers.
The Haringvliet Dam and Haringvliet Locks are an impressive part of the Dutch Delta Works. This structure, approximately one kilometer long, plays a crucial role in protecting the land against high water from the sea. It also regulates the flow of river water from the Rhine and Meuse into the North Sea, creating a large freshwater reserve behind it.
Visitors particularly appreciate the diverse natural beauty and the wide range of outdoor activities. The clear blue waters of the Grevelingenmeer, the unique wildlife spotting opportunities (like flamingos and seals), and the exceptional birdwatching at the Haringvliet are frequently highlighted. The dynamic tidal nature of the Oosterschelde National Park and the scenic trails through areas like the Vroongronden Nature Reserve also receive high praise.


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