Along the coast of Westland, the landscape visibly changes: wind, waves and currents continually reshape the Zandmotor. At the same time, historic windmills and greenhouses tell the cultural story of the region. A stay here brings nature experiences together with traces of a long horticultural and milling tradition.
A coast and nature in motion
The Zandmotor is an artificial sand peninsula off Ter Heijde. It was created to widen and strengthen the dunes naturally. As wind, waves and currents constantly change the landscape, a walk or bike ride there offers a different impression each time. Marram grass and sea rocket are among its pioneer plants; the Zandmotor is also a habitat for birds and other animals.
The coast and dunes of Westland are part of Hollandse Duinen National Park. The dunes are suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding. Westland also has eight kilometres of beach, from Slag Vlugtenburg to the Zandmotor. These features offer different ways to spend time outdoors: a route through the dunes, a walk by the water or a visit to the ever-changing sand peninsula.
Waterways and open landscapes
Westland has more than 90 kilometres of waterways. Today they are used for recreation; in the past, they served to transport produce from greenhouses. Signs at junctions make it easier to find your way around the waterways routes. The history of horticulture is therefore reflected not only in buildings, but also in the former use of the waterways.
De Wollebrand is a green recreation area in the municipality of Westland. Meadows, woodland, open water and reeds shape the landscape, and you can also enjoy walks in the greenery. De Wollebrand has a cable wakeboard and water-ski facility. As its availability may change, check local information before travelling.
Experience greenhouse history
The Westlands Museum presents the history of Westland and its greenhouse horticulture. The museum includes a historic garden with fruit espaliers, old greenhouses and historic tools. There is a play area and a scavenger trail for children. The garden, tools and greenhouses provide a vivid complement to the history of cultivation.
The Historische Druivenkwekerij Sonnehoeck also brings horticulture and heritage together: this nearly 300-year-old nursery has been in existence since 1729 and has been listed as a Rijksmonument since 2001. On a guided tour of the historic grape greenhouses, visitors can discover the world of the Westland grape and learn about the origins of winegrowing in Westland. Tour booking conditions may change; enquire about a date in advance.
Tomatoworld offers another perspective on modern greenhouse cultivation. Its 500-square-metre exhibition focuses on safe, fresh and high-tech food production in greenhouses. Visits are possible by appointment; arrange your visit in advance.
Windmills and historic buildings
The present-day De Vier Winden windmill in Monster was built in 1882 after its predecessor was destroyed by fire. When there is enough wind, you can see the mill in operation on Saturdays; opening arrangements also apply and may change. Various types of flour and baking mixes, including spelt and wholemeal flour, are sold during opening hours. Korenmolen Windlust is another striking landmark: built in 1869, it is 27 metres tall and the highest windmill in Westland. You can regularly watch the milling process there, although demonstrations may vary. The mill can generally be visited on Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm; check opening hours before your visit.
Churches and museums also preserve the history of these places. The Bartholomeuskerk in Poeldijk, consecrated in 1926, is a Neo-Gothic cruciform church designed by architect Nicolaas Molenaar Sr.; it is also known as the “Cathedral of Westland”. Museum De Timmerwerf is housed in a historic building dating from 1642. In Naaldwijk, the Heilige Geest Hofje and its chapel tell the story of a 17th-century social institution: it was established between 1627 and 1636 on the orders of Frederik Hendrik. The west wing was intended for ten elderly women, while the east wing contained ten apartments for elderly men and an eleventh almshouse for the sick.
Woodland, recreation and annual events
You can go for a walk in Staelduinse Bos, which is part of Hollandse Duinen National Park. Among the trees are bunkers from the Second World War, including the barracks of a German bunker village. The interiors of the bunkers are not open to visitors. Nature and military history are two different aspects of the same woodland area.
Prinsenbos in Naaldwijk is a recreation area made up mostly of a lake with a narrow belt of deciduous woodland around it. There are four fishing spots and a dog beach. Most of the walking route is easily accessible by wheelchair; as accessibility depends on path maintenance, check the route’s condition before your visit.
Recurring events around flowers and greenhouses are also among the experiences on offer. Varend Corso Westland is an annual floating flower parade in Westland and the surrounding area; the route and dates vary each year. During Kom in de Kas Westland, greenhouse businesses open their doors every year and show what they grow. Visitors can smell, see and taste greenhouse produce. Participating businesses and dates vary from one edition to the next. During the season, you can pick your own berries at Plukkerij Framblij in its greenhouses.
Discover more destinations
Discover more destinations: Poeldijk, Naaldwijk, Ter Heijde, 'S-Gravenzande, De Lier, Hillegom, Dirksland, Pijnacker-Nootdorp.
For the main travel overview: South Holland.
