The 77-hectare nature island of Sophiapolder lies in the tidal river Noord near Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht. In 2011, after the dyke was breached, it became a nature reserve shaped by the ebb and flow of the tides.
Sophiapolder: Tides and birdlife
Birds that can be spotted on the island include grey plovers, redshanks, shelducks, greenshanks and spoonbills.
A free passenger ferry to Sophiapolder departs from Veersedijk 301, where parking is also available. Seasonal ferry details may change, so check access before setting out.
The island has a visitor centre with information about the island, its history and the animals found there, as well as a café and toilets. Access to and services at the visitor centre may change; check the current arrangements before your visit.
Pear trees and a tree trail
At almost 550 metres long, Perenlaantje forms an arch over a grassy path, with more than 1,100 pear trees. It is the longest pear-tree avenue in the Netherlands. Since its restoration, Perenlaantje and the surrounding area have been freely accessible to everyone.
Another tree trail runs through Baxpark: the educational Bomenroute passes 20 trees and was developed in collaboration with the municipal administration. Its focus is therefore on an informative trail rather than a single avenue.
Open polder landscape and cycling routes
The Sandelingen-Ambacht recreation area covers 95 hectares and preserves wide views across the open polder landscape. Tree-lined avenues reveal the layout of former orchards, and benches are located along the area. Landscape views and small landmarks are both part of what makes this area distinctive.
Sandelingen-Ambacht has several cycling routes connecting it with neighbouring municipalities. A direct cycle route between Ridderkerk and Zwijndrecht also runs alongside the A16. The Waaltje is eight kilometres long and runs from Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht to the Oude Maas.
Local history at several sites
Hendrik-Ido-Ambacht has 10 national monuments and 45 municipal monuments. One specific historical landmark is Pruilenburg House: it was mentioned before 1782, and parts of its 18th-century interior have been preserved. It has been used continuously as a doctor's residence since 1825.
The archaeological remains of the Vreedenborg country estate have also been preserved on site and are intended to remain in the ground. The BelevenisTafel offers a playful way to explore local history. Its exhibits and stories cover local art, Ambacht's oldest farm and the history of the flax industry.
Leisure and learning
Frelu Farm is home to old Dutch cattle and sheep and is open for leisure visits. Accompanied by an IVN school guide, pupils can take part in the educational programmes “Bij de boerensloot” and “Ontdek het platteland” there. Check availability before arranging a visit.
Jeugdspeelpark combines a petting zoo, a playground and an education centre. It also offers a range of outdoor lessons for children in grades 1 to 8. Check availability before visiting with a school or group.
Discover more destinations: Goedereede, Giessenlanden, The Hague, Oostflakkee, Gorinchem, Boskoop, Pijnacker-Nootdorp, Cromstrijen.
Return to the regional travel overview: South Holland.
