Nature Reserve Oranjezon
Zeeland
Nature Reserve Oranjezon is a 400-hectare protected area located on the island of Walcheren near Vrouwenpolder in Zeeland, the Netherlands. Formerly used as a water extraction site until 1995, it now serves as a vital natural habitat managed by Stichting Het Zeeuwse Landschap. The reserve is part of the Manteling van Walcheren Natura 2000 area and features a varied landscape including broad beaches, pine and deciduous forests, dune valleys, and grasslands. Restoration efforts have revived native plant species such as dwarf sedge, milkweed, and orchids. Visitors can enjoy walking through sheltered dune valleys and encounter wildlife like fallow deer and roe deer. Historical remnants from World War II are also present within the reserve. Its unique landscape has earned Oranjezon a designation as one of the 40 Geosites in the UNESCO Geopark Schelde Delta. The area is accessible via marked trails with several walking routes, including the Bosroute, Damhertroute, Parnassiaroute, and Torenroute, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.
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Astuce: Visit Oranjezon during daylight hours as the reserve is open from sunrise to sunset. Purchase entrance tickets at the site; children under 16 and holders of the Het Zeeuwse Landschap Protector Pass enter free. Wear suitable footwear for walking on varied terrain and be aware of ticks in the area-check yourself after your visit. Bring a bicycle if you like, as free bike parking is available at the entrance. Dogs are not allowed to protect local wildlife and habitats.
Faits intéressants
- •Oranjezon covers approximately 400 hectares and includes one of the widest beaches in Zeeland.
- •The reserve was a water extraction area until 1995, supplying drinking water to Middelburg and Walcheren.
- •Several dune valleys have been restored recently, allowing rare plants like orchids to return.
- •Oranjezon is part of the Manteling van Walcheren Natura 2000 protected area.
- •The area contains historical remnants from World War II.
- •It is recognized as one of the 40 Geosites in the UNESCO Geopark Schelde Delta.
Histoire
The area of Oranjezon was formed after the 13th-century reclamation of salt marshes near Vrouwenpolder.
Over centuries, the landscape developed through natural dune formation and human activities, including its use as a rabbit warren and a water extraction site supplying Middelburg and Walcheren.
Water canals and pine forests remain as evidence of its water management past.
Since 1995, Oranjezon has been managed as a nature reserve, focusing on habitat restoration and conservation.
The reserve also contains remnants from World War II, reflecting its role in regional history.
Its geological and ecological significance led to its inclusion in the UNESCO Geopark Schelde Delta network.
Guide du lieu
Bosroute (Forest Route)
A 4 km walking trail through the forested areas of Oranjezon, showcasing diverse tree species and opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer.
Damhertroute (Fallow Deer Route)
A 6.5 km trail focused on spotting fallow deer in their natural habitat, passing through dune valleys and open grasslands.
Parnassiaroute
A 4.5 km path highlighting restored dune valleys where rare plants such as orchids and dwarf sedge can be observed.
Torenroute (Tower Route)
A shorter 2.5 km trail featuring sensory activities for children and opportunities to discover hidden animals, combining education with exploration.
Contact
Téléphone: 0113 569 110
