Top 14 Natural Monuments around De Lier
Best natural monuments around De Lier are characterized by its distinctive polder landscape, a testament to Dutch land reclamation and water management. This low-lying land, protected by dikes and managed with a network of canals, offers vast views of agricultural fields. The River De Lee, flowing through the village, is an integral part of the local ecosystem and contributes to the area's characteristic ambiance. These natural features provide tranquil settings for exploring the region's unique environment.
Best natural monuments around De Lier
- The most popular natural monuments is Sand Motor (Zandmotor), a beach that features a magnificent dune landscape with great views of the sea. This coastal development was created to strengthen the coast and provide a dynamic nature and recreation area.
- Another must-see spot is Staelduinse Forest, a forest that is the only remaining natural forest in the Westland. Visitors can expect beech avenues, dune grasslands, and a variety of mushrooms and stinze plants.
- Visitors also love Juliana Park, a natural monument and park in Schiedam. It features a landscaped design with curved paths, formal avenues, and an artificial hill offering views of the park.
- De Lier is known for its polder landscapes, rivers, and coastal areas. These natural features offer a variety of natural monuments to see and explore, from reclaimed land to dynamic beaches.
- The natural monuments around De Lier are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 480 upvotes and 39 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: June 23, 2026
Sand Motor (Zandmotor)
Highlight • Beach
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Westduinpark & Wapendal Dunes
Highlight • Natural
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Staelduinse Forest
Highlight • Forest
Source: Walking guide - Deltapad
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The Sand Motor
Highlight • Beach
In 2011, a peninsula of 21.5 million cubic metres of sand was created off the coast of Kijkduin according to the principle of Building with Nature. Wind and current spread the sand along the coast and towards the dunes. The aim is to strengthen the coast in the long term and to create a dynamic nature and recreation area.
The Sand Motor is a unique experiment, because we work with the water instead of against it. By dumping a large amount of sand in one go, we prevent repeated disturbance of the seabed. Nature places the sand in the right place for us.
Peace and space
Since its construction, the sand has gradually spread north and south under the influence of wind, waves and current. As a result, the area has increasingly come to resemble the dynamic coastal nature that we know from the Wadden Islands. Various plants, birds and other animals have nestled in the new, attractive coastal landscape. The area also has great recreational value for nature lovers and active sportsmen. The Sand Motor offers a place of peace and space for both humans and animals.
Icon for innovation
The Sand Motor is important as a driver for innovative coastal maintenance. Since its construction, dozens of researchers from various universities and knowledge institutions have been closely following the development of the Sand Motor. Due to its innovative and large-scale character, the Sand Motor has become an international innovation icon.
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Juliana Park
Highlight • Natural Monument
Main entrance Burg. Knappertlaan
The Julianapark is the only park in Schiedam that is protected as a monument. Nowadays, its design is still very similar to the design that the municipal landscape architect J.K. Dominicus drew in 1914. The park was the first part that was constructed during the development of the new West district. The pond was an important part of the water management in the former polder area, which was reclaimed from 1907 onwards.
Dominicus designed a park with curved paths in a landscaped design, combined with several formal avenues and sight lines, such as the access path from Burgemeester Knappertlaan. An artificial hill or belvedere was constructed in the centre of the park, from where there is a beautiful view of the park. The crowning dome is surrounded by a brick pergola. The colonnade with lime trees is also characteristic. There are more beautiful trees in the park, such as a beech and hornbeam, and the liberation tree planted in 1947.
There are several monuments in the park, such as the Emmabank from 1935 and a liberation monument from 1949 by Pieter van Starreveld. Many older Schiedammers still remember the magical lighting of the Julianapark during the 'Holiday Festivities' in the fifties. This lighting was not easy, for example the eight kilometres of electricity cables had to be buried in lawns, flower beds and paths. The manager was therefore not initially enthusiastic. With Winterlicht in December the beautiful effect can be relived.
NB. Fortunately this lighting was not always on. The adult male youth had secret meetings in the park at night with the young student nurses who stayed in the convent next to the park.
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Tips from the Community
Definitely pop into the Skyspace by James Turrell at Machiel Vrijenhoeklaan in Kijkduin (opposite De Haagse beek).
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The route can handle many tourists.
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Varied nature, beautiful views
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You are allowed to take your dog with you, as long as it is leashed. There are two hills with semi-natural stairs that are pretty steep.
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Great scenery, but bad bike path.
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One of the few "forests" near Rotterdam. This route is designed so that as much as possible can be walked on footpaths. There is only one steep climb.
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Julianapark Main entrance Burg. Knappertlaan The Julianapark is the only park in Schiedam that is protected as a monument. Nowadays, its design is still very similar to the design that the municipal landscape architect J.K. Dominicus drew in 1914. The park was the first part that was constructed during the development of the new West district. The pond was an important part of the water management in the former polder area, which was reclaimed from 1907 onwards. Dominicus designed a park with curved paths in a landscaped design, combined with several formal avenues and sight lines, such as the access path from Burgemeester Knappertlaan. An artificial hill or belvedere was constructed in the centre of the park, from where there is a beautiful view of the park. The crowning dome is surrounded by a brick pergola. The colonnade with lime trees is also characteristic. There are more beautiful trees in the park, such as a beech and hornbeam, and the liberation tree planted in 1947. There are several monuments in the park, such as the Emmabank from 1935 and a liberation monument from 1949 by Pieter van Starreveld. Many older Schiedammers still remember the magical lighting of the Julianapark during the 'Holiday Festivities' in the fifties. This lighting was not easy, for example the eight kilometres of electricity cables had to be buried in lawns, flower beds and paths. The manager was therefore not initially enthusiastic. With Winterlicht in December the beautiful effect can be relived. NB. Fortunately this lighting was not always on. The adult male youth had secret meetings in the park at night with the young student nurses who stayed in the convent next to the park.
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It is a beautiful walking area, but of course on a Sunday with nice weather, very busy with families and children. Not bad in itself, but if you are looking for silence, you better go on a weekday.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of natural landscapes can I expect to see around De Lier?
De Lier is primarily characterized by its distinctive polder landscape, a testament to Dutch land reclamation and water management. This low-lying land, protected by dikes and managed with a network of canals, offers vast views of agricultural fields. The River De Lee also flows through the village, forming a central natural element. You'll find a blend of engineered nature and serene open spaces.
Are there any unique natural features or ecosystems in the De Lier area?
Yes, the most unique feature is the extensive polder landscape, which showcases centuries of Dutch ingenuity in living with and reclaiming land from water. This intricate system of dikes, canals, and reclaimed land creates a distinct environment. Additionally, areas like the Natuurgebied Kraaiennest offer wetland ecosystems, rich in specific aquatic plants and various birdlife.
Where can I experience a unique coastal environment near De Lier?
For a dynamic coastal experience, visit the Sand Motor (Zandmotor). This is a unique coastal development created to strengthen the coast and provide a dynamic nature and recreation area. It features a magnificent dune landscape with great views of the sea, offering a place of peace and space for both humans and animals.
Is there a natural forest to explore in the Westland region?
Yes, the Staelduinse Forest is the only remaining natural forest in the Westland. Here, you can wander through beautiful beech avenues, explore dune grasslands, and discover a variety of mushrooms and stinze plants. It's also known for bats that emerge from nearby bunkers at dusk.
Are there any parks with historical significance among the natural monuments?
Certainly, Juliana Park in Schiedam is protected as a monument. Its design from 1914, featuring curved paths, formal avenues, and an artificial hill offering views of the park, is still largely intact. The park also contains several historical monuments, such as the Emmabank from 1935 and a liberation monument from 1949.
What wildlife can be observed in the natural areas near De Lier?
The Ackerlijkse Plassen Nature Reserve is particularly known for its rich birdlife. You can spot various species, including breeding birds like warblers and snipes, meadow birds such as Black-tailed Godwits, pioneer species like the ruff, and overwintering birds like Wigeon and Pintail. The Staelduinse Forest is also home to various bats.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments around De Lier?
Many of the natural monuments in the area are suitable for families. The Sand Motor offers a wide beach and dunes for exploration, while the Staelduinse Forest provides pleasant walking paths. Juliana Park is a landscaped park perfect for a family stroll, and the Ackerlijkse Plassen Nature Reserve is great for birdwatching with children.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The flat polder landscape and coastal areas around De Lier are ideal for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for running, gravel biking, and mountain biking. These routes often take you through scenic polders, along rivers, and near the coast, offering diverse experiences for all fitness levels.
Are there hiking trails near these natural monuments?
Yes, the region offers many opportunities for hiking. For instance, you can explore trails around the Staelduinse Forest or enjoy waterside walks along the River De Lee. The polder landscape itself provides extensive networks of paths, perfect for leisurely walks or longer hikes. You can find detailed routes in the running trails guide, many of which are also suitable for hiking.
What is the best time of year to visit the natural monuments around De Lier?
The natural monuments around De Lier can be enjoyed year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings blooming flora and active birdlife, especially in wetland areas. Summer is ideal for coastal visits and longer outdoor activities. Autumn showcases beautiful colors in places like Staelduinse Forest and is excellent for mushroom spotting. Even winter offers tranquil, crisp walks through the polders and along the coast.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around De Lier?
Visitors particularly appreciate the tranquility and unique character of the Dutch polder landscape. The Sand Motor is loved for its magnificent dune landscape and sea views, while the Staelduinse Forest is valued as a peaceful green oasis. The opportunity to observe diverse birdlife at places like the Ackerlijkse Plassen Nature Reserve is also a highlight for many.
Are there any easy walking routes suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, areas like the Natuurgebied Kraaiennest are known for offering easy walking routes suitable for all fitness levels. The generally flat terrain of the polder landscape also means many paths along canals and through agricultural fields are accessible and provide gentle walks, perfect for a relaxed outing.
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