West Graftdijk borders the Eilandspolder, a protected Natura 2000 area covering 1,950 hectares, a quarter of which is water. Expansive moorland meadows, birdlife, and opportunities to explore by water give the surrounding area several natural highlights. Two cycling routes also pass through the village; they differ in their thematic focus and in that one includes a ferry crossing.
Moorland Meadows and Birdlife
The Eilandspolder is an extensive landscape of moorland meadows. Its soil is marshy and nutrient-rich; the peat shapes the landscape. The area provides habitat for meadow and marsh birds, including black-tailed godwit, lapwing, Eurasian oystercatcher, great bittern, and reed warbler. The birds that can be spotted vary with the seasons. Nature enthusiasts can therefore distinguish between the landscape as a year-round natural highlight and specific birdwatching opportunities, which change seasonally.
Experience the Eilandspolder Actively
The Eilandspolder can be explored on foot, by bicycle, on roller skates, while sailing, or in winter while ice skating. Various routes lead to particularly beautiful spots. The options range from trails on land to sailing; ice skating is specifically a winter option. Seasonal conditions may vary, so your preferred activity is a factor when choosing when to travel. When planning, you can weigh a particular way of getting around against the character of the season.
Places to Observe Nature Near West Graftdijk
Two natural areas are located near West Graftdijk. Kerkemeertje is a shallow bird lake with a birdwatching hide. At Uilenbosje, a viewpoint can be reached via a boot trail. The two places have different focuses: birdwatching is part of Kerkemeertje’s character, while Uilenbosje features a viewpoint along the trail. They offer different ways to take in nature: birdwatching at a shallow lake and enjoying a view from the boot trail.
Two Cycling Routes, Different Focuses
The Haring- en Hennep cycling route passes through West Graftdijk and explores the history of the former Schermereiland. It covers the struggle against the water, the rich maritime history, and the reclamation of the Beemster and Schermer areas. The Rondje Pontje Polderland cycling route also passes through West Graftdijk; it uses three ferries, one of which cyclists must operate themselves. The routes therefore offer different focuses: historical themes and ferry crossings. Ferry availability may vary seasonally. Check the route details before setting out, and check ferry availability for Rondje Pontje Polderland as well.
A Distinctive Landscape Highlight: De Saskerlei
De Saskerlei is the last remaining piece of peatland in the Alkmaarder- en Uitgeestermeer. Saline peat and marine clay in the soil are distinctive natural features and provide habitat for various plant and animal species. As a nature theme, De Saskerlei differs from the Eilandspolder: there, expansive moorland meadows and birdlife shape the landscape, while De Saskerlei focuses on the remaining peatland and the character of its soil.
Discover more destinations: De Rijp, Graft.
Return to the regional travel overview: Graft-De Rijp.
