Schoorlse Duinen, Protected nature area in Schoorl, Netherlands
Schoorlse Duinen is a protected nature reserve along the Dutch coast near Bergen, stretching about five kilometers and combining sandy hills, pine forests, and wetland areas. The landscape supports diverse plant and animal life and functions as an important habitat for many species.
The area was first recorded in 1094 as Scoronlo, referring to a forest in marshy coastal land. Over the centuries, large-scale tree planting was undertaken to stop sand from shifting and to stabilize the terrain.
Pine forests shape how the dunes look and feel today, the result of deliberate planting that has defined this landscape for centuries. As you walk through, these trees guide where people move and rest, influencing how visitors experience the terrain.
The visitor center at the entrance offers maps and local information to help you plan your visit. Multiple marked walking routes of varying lengths are available, so you can choose a path that suits your fitness level and available time.
The Klimduin, one of the highest points, hosts an annual running race where participants sprint up a steep sandy slope. This event brings together sport and landscape in an unusual way and draws athletes from beyond the region.
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