Zwanewater Stuifdijk - Nature

The Zwanewater Stuifdijk is a historic piece of hydraulic engineering in the middle of the dunes between Ballum and Nes on Ameland. What was once built to hold the island together is now a beautiful nature area.

What can you expect at the Zwanewater Stuifdijk?

• Holding an island together: In the 19th century, Ameland threatened to break in two at high tide. That is why the Mochdijk was raised in 1850. At the end of the 19th century a second drift-sand dyke followed on its seaward side: the Zwanewater Stuifdijk.
• How a drift-sand dyke is made: Screens of brushwood were used to catch drifting sand. In this way the dyke grew by itself into a row of dunes that became ever higher and stronger.
• Cultural history in the landscape: Staatsbosbeheer regards the drift-sand dykes as important cultural-historical features and takes their course into account when managing the area.
• Breeding ground for birds: The Zwanewaterduinen are an important breeding area for many birds. South of the dyke lies the Hagedoornveld, full of sea buckthorn and birdlife.

Practical information

• Walking: Combine the dyke with the circular walk of about 5 kilometres around the Hagedoornveld and a visit to the Kooi van Woldringh.

A walk along the Zwanewater Stuifdijk shows how people and nature have shaped the landscape of Ameland together.

Furthermore Zwanewater Stuifdijk is near the following sights: Kooi van Woldringh (±250 m), Möchdijk (±650 m), Hagedoornveld (±800 m), Ameland Adventure (±800 m) & Kwekerijbos (±1,0 km).

For information

Zwanewater Stuifdijk, Nes, Ameland