South Holland hiking areas: these are the most beautiful areas
November 16, 2023
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The Maasvlakte may be known to you only as Rotterdam's port and industrial area. But did you know that an incredibly beautiful beach lurks here? In this article, we take you to the Maasvlakte, with its vast Maasvlakte beach and the eye-catching artwork the Sand Watch. These are our personal tips for visiting the Maasvlakte!
The Second Maasvlakte
The Maasvlakte is surely familiar to you. The industrial area in the Maas estuary belongs to the largest port in Europe: the Port of Rotterdam! In 2013, the Maasvlakte was expanded to include Maasvlakte 2. The Second Maasvlakte is also part of the Port of Rotterdam and this new area extends over 2,000 hectares. With the construction of this expansion project, the Port of Rotterdam was increased by a whopping 20%, to a total area of over 12,000 hectares. Can't yet imagine exactly how big that is? Well, about 18,000 soccer fields all together.
Want to learn more about exactly what happens at the Maasvlakte? Then visit Futureland! At the Futureland Information Center you will discover what happens in the port on Maasvlakte 2. For both children and adults it is interesting to learn everything about the spouting of sand, the operation of containers, cranes and ships in the Port of Rotterdam. A visit to Futureland is free of charge.
The Maasvlakte Beach
The Maasvlakte is impressive in itself, but its direct location on the North Sea also makes it an extraordinarily beautiful place for a beach. Maasvlakte beach - also called Slufter beach - is a wide sandy beach. The beach is best known for its ideal conditions for surfers and kiters when it comes to wind. But it is also a very nice beach for swimming, sunbathing and for nice walking. That latest is also allowed with the dog, if leashed. At the northernmost beach entrance, a 500-meter strip is reserved as a nudist beach.
Compared to other Dutch beaches, you won't find many catering establishments here. So no day spent at a beach tent, but do ultimately enjoy the peace and vastness of the beach. We do love a quiet beach in The Netherlands. For this reason, it is wise to bring plenty of good food and drink for a day at Maasvlakte beach.
Free parking is available at P1 and P3. The nude beach is located north of P2.
Artwork the Sand Watch on the Maasvlakte beach
On the dunes of the beach at Maasvlakte 2 stands an impressive monument: the Sand Watch. The realization of the artwork was entirely dedicated to the completion of construction on Maasvlakte 2. With an area of 20 by 40 meters and a height of 12 meters, the Sand Watch is an eye-catching object. The Sand Watch was designed by artist collective Observatorium. The artists were inspired by the way sand blows up, the trajectory it describes through the air and how it descends again. So the Sand Watch is actually a visualization of the formation of the dune landscape.
What is especially cool about the artwork is that it consists of SO many elements, that when you walk along and through the object you see different perspectives everywhere. The Sand Watch is therefore a popular spot for photography. But not only that, because dhe Sand Watch also invites you to stop and enjoy the expansive view of the beach and the North Sea.
Do you want to park close to the Sandwatch? The best place to do so is P3. Then walk along a sandy path in 5 minutes to the artwork.
Spending a day on the island of Voorne-Putten
The Maasvlakte beach belongs to Rotterdam, but is still about 45 minutes to an hour's drive from the center of Rotterdam. Actually, then, the Maasvlakte is a lot closer to the island of Voorne-Putten. And did you know that you can find many more beautiful spots on this island? Half an hour's drive from the Maasvlakte you'll find the cozy fortress town Brielle, but Hellevoetsluis is also just around the corner. The Maasvlakte is therefore ideal to combine with a day out on Voorne-Putten.
More great tips for outings in the Netherlands
Looking for even more fun trips and outings in the Netherlands? How about a day of touring with a 2CV? Discover more great tips on our page trips in the Netherlands!
Travander
At Travander, we’re all about exploring hidden gems, unique destinations, and off-the-beaten-path travel experiences. Our motto, “Let’s Travel and Wander,” reflects our passion for discovering both local treasures and faraway adventures. As experienced travel bloggers and travel consultants, we share insider tips, personal stories, and practical advice to help you make the most of every trip. From city breaks and weekend getaways to tailor-made travel itineraries, we guide you to the most beautiful and inspiring places. Explore the world with Travander and let us spark your next unforgettable adventure!
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