In Westenschouwen, the choices range from forest and dune paths to several stretches of beach. The options differ in route length, terrain, views and beach character. You can tailor your stay to whether you want to hike, go horseback riding, observe nature or explore the town’s history.

Forest, Dunes and Paths

Boswachterij Westerschouwen is the largest forest in Zeeland and lies on the coast of Schouwen-Duiveland. The Boswachterspad Bos starts at the Excursieschuur Westenschouwen. From the lookout tower along the path, you can see across the forest and the Meeuwenduinen to the sea. The Duinen Westenschouwen form a high primary dune ridge between the start of the Oosterscheldekering and the Meeuwenduinen.

For a walk, the Familiepad Westerschouwen offers a specific option with two route lengths: the walking route is 8 kilometres in total and can be shortened to 3 kilometres. It follows a concrete path with a layer of gravel and is generally accessible to wheelchairs, pushchairs and mobility walkers. Weather and maintenance can affect access conditions; route details may also change. So check the latest route description and path conditions before your visit.

Most of the Boswachterij is freely accessible on foot, by bicycle and on horseback. As local access rules may change, follow the signs when you arrive. If you prefer a specific activity, there is also the Ruiterroute Westerschouwen: it is 12 kilometres long and crosses the beach at two access points. The Mountainbikeparcours Westenschouwen runs over dunes and through the forest.

Beaches and Nature Watching

Rotonde, Speelduin and De Punt are each described as family and sports beaches at the foot of the Oosterscheldekering. Strand Rotonde has also been awarded the Blue Flag. Its status may change from season to season, so check in advance if you plan to rely on it. Speelduin borders Boswachterij Westerschouwen on the landward side. At Strand De Punt, the water has a strong current because of the nearby Oosterscheldekering—a notable difference when choosing a stretch of beach.

Domeinen 1 is one of four neighbouring beaches at the tip of Westenschouwen. The sea there is part of the protected Voordelta nature area, home to many birds, fish and seals. Another opportunity for nature watching can be found around the water at Boompjesput: bee orchids and marsh orchids bloom there in spring.

More Activities and Local History

Klimbos Westerschouwen is 100 metres from the North Sea beach. Klimbos Zeeuwse Helden has six courses with around 90 obstacles and twelve zip lines. As the facilities may change, check the current course layout if you are interested. The Natuurinformatiepunt & trampolinecentrum “Westerschouwen” rents out e-bikes, mountain bikes, scooters and family bikes; the rental selection may also change.

Alongside its nature and activities, Westenschouwen has a local history that can be explored through various accounts and remains. From 1400, the new harbour was called Westenschouwen. The legend “De Vrouwe van Westenschouwen” is also associated with the town. Archaeological remains of the former harbour district include house foundations, wells or barrel wells, and a paved section of road. Westenschouwen thus offers landscape experiences and historical themes as distinct areas of interest.

Discover more destinations: Bruinisse, Brouwershaven, Oosterland, Zonnemaire, Scharendijke, Noordgouwe, Zierikzee, Kerkwerve

For the broader travel overview: Schouwen-Duiveland.