Nature reserve Het Zwanenwater
Zuidschinkeldijk 4, 1759 JH Callantsoog
Het Zwanenwater is tucked away in the dunes of North Holland, south of Callantsoog. This protected nature reserve has the largest natural dune lakes in Europe. You walk here through dune valleys full of flowers and butterflies. From the bird-watching huts, you can spot birds on the First and Second Water.
Het Zwanenwater was created after the construction of the Zijperzeedijk in 1596. Dusty sand created dunes, valleys and lakes.
Natuurmonumenten has been protecting this nature reserve since 1973. In 1988, the Zwanenwater was given international wetland status as an important migratory bird area. In 2008, it was designated as an earth monument.
Dunes full of plants and animals
The unique dune landscape with both wet and dry dune valleys and shallow freshwater lakes is home to an exceptionally large number of plants and animals.
From May to early July, as many as 11 orchid species bloom here, such as the reed orchid and the fragrant night orchid. You will also find the creamy white grass of Parnassus and the yellow-coloured great rattle. In August, the flowering heather turns the Zwanenwater purple. All these flowering plants attract butterflies and other insects. Species such as icarus blue, dune fritillary, heath butterfly and haybird suck nectar from the flowers with their rolling tongues.
Two walking routes (2 and 4.5 km) show the best of Zwanenwater.
