Top 5 Natural Monuments around Purmerend
Best natural monuments around Purmerend are found within the distinctive landscape of Laag Holland, an area shaped by human intervention and nature. This region features a quintessential Dutch polder landscape with meadows, ditches, and vast waterways. It is recognized for its ecological importance, serving as a significant breeding ground for birds. The area offers both natural beauty and cultural-historical elements, making it suitable for outdoor exploration.
Best natural monuments around Purmerend
- The most popular natural monuments is De Poelboerderij Visitor…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Moordenaarsbraak Nature Reserve
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De Poelboerderij Visitor Centre
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Volgermeerpolder
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UNESCO World Heritage Site Beemster Polder
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Memorial monument “The Wave” (flood disaster)
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IJsselmeer dike between Edam and Warder. From Wikipedia
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The Moordenaarsbraak is the remains of one of the many dike breaches in North Holland caused by flooding of the Zuiderzee. Between Edam and Hoorn, the IJsselmeer dike owes its winding shape to the dike breaches, which the dike was then built around. The Moordenaarsbraak probably originated in the period between 1775 and 1849.[1] The Moordenaarsbraak is a more or less circular water area, which is bordered by a reed collar. The Moordenaarsbraak has been designated as a provincial monument because it is seen as a "defining element in the North Holland Polder landscape".[2] The name Moordenaarsbraak refers to the violence of the sea, which caused people in the area to be murdered.[3] The nature reserve is managed by Staatsbosbeheer. Just south of the Moordenaarsbraak are the Groote Braak and the Kleine Braak and just north of the Zandbraak and the Hogendijkerbraak, all located within a distance of approximately 5 kilometers along the IJs
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This place has long been used as a dumping ground for the municipality. Not only domestic waste was dumped, but also a lot of industrial and chemical waste, making it one of the most toxic places in the Netherlands. "To clean up the area, steel sheet piles were driven deep into the ground. The pollution was also covered and provided with a thick layer of living. As a result, the area is higher than the surroundings and you have a beautiful view over the rest of North-East. ."
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“The Wave” is a memorial monument in memory of the storm surge on the night of January 13 to 14, 1916, in which 19 people (including 16 people on the then island of Marken) were killed. The monument was created by Linda Verkaaik in 2016. It is made of steel and consists of life-sized people on a boat who cry out for attention and help with outstretched arms. The sofa, which is attached to it, offers a beautiful view over the Gouwzee.
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The De Poelboerderij foundation in Wormer was established in 1988. A group of involved people from the Zaan region realized that the unique natural and cultural-historical value of the Wormer and Jisperveld was in danger of being lost due to economic factors. By bringing the beauty and richness of flora and fauna (one of the largest meadow bird breeding areas in north-western Europe) of this area to the attention of a wide audience, the foundation wants to emphasize the unique values of this almost thousand-year-old peat meadow area. hold on. This in collaboration and with the support of the Vereniging voor Natuurmonumenten, the manager of a large part of the Wormer and Jisperveld. Detailed information about the history of De Poelboerderij Visitor Center can be found below.
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The visitor center of UNESCO world heritage Droogmakerij de Beemster. This 17th-century reclaimed land is a textbook example of how the Dutch have reclaimed large areas of land. There is a 42-kilometer-long dike around the polder, within which you will find beautiful farms in a tight, orderly pattern of meadows.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most significant natural areas to explore near Purmerend?
The most significant natural areas are the Nationaal Landschap Laag Holland and Waterland Oost. Laag Holland is characterized by its expansive polder landscape, meadows, ditches, and waterways, while Waterland Oost offers a labyrinth of waterways ideal for exploration by canoe.
Are there any visitor centers that provide information about the natural monuments?
Yes, the De Poelboerderij Visitor Centre is dedicated to highlighting the unique natural and cultural-historical value of the Wormer and Jisperveld, which is one of the largest meadow bird breeding grounds in north-western Europe.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Purmerend?
You will encounter quintessential Dutch polder landscapes, intricate networks of waterways, vast open fields, and reed beds. The area is also known for its ecological importance, serving as a significant breeding ground for various bird species, especially in areas like the Wormer and Jisperveld.
Are there historical sites among the natural monuments near Purmerend?
Yes, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Beemster Polder is a prime example. This 17th-century reclaimed land demonstrates how large areas were reclaimed, featuring a 42-kilometer-long dike and an orderly pattern of farms and meadows. It showcases the unique interplay between human intervention and nature.
Where can I find good viewpoints to appreciate the landscape?
A notable viewpoint is the View of the Gouwzee from Monnickendam. This spot offers views over the Gouwzee, a body of shallow, clear water that is part of the Markermeer nature reserve. Another option is the Volgermeerpolder, which, due to its elevated nature, provides beautiful views over the surrounding North-East area.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The region offers a wide range of outdoor activities. You can enjoy hiking on trails like the 'Purmerbos – Mushrooms Along the Pathway' or 'Noordhollandsch Kanaal Pathway'. Cycling is also popular, with routes such as the 'Beemster Forts Trail' and 'Discover regional products from the Beemster by bike'. For mountain biking, consider routes in the 't Twiske area. Find more details on these activities in our guides for hiking, cycling, and MTB trails around Purmerend.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or areas suitable for children?
Many of the natural areas around Purmerend are family-friendly. The De Poelboerderij Visitor Centre, UNESCO World Heritage Site Beemster Polder, and View of the Gouwzee from Monnickendam are all noted as suitable for families. The flat polder landscape also makes for easy walking and cycling with children.
What is the terrain like for walking and cycling in the Purmerend area?
The terrain around Purmerend is predominantly flat, characteristic of the Dutch polder landscape. This makes it ideal for easy walking and cycling, with well-maintained paths and an extensive network of routes. You'll find minimal elevation changes, offering a relaxed outdoor experience.
What makes the Gouwzee special for nature lovers?
The Gouwzee, visible from Monnickendam, is characterized by its shallow and clear water and is part of the Markermeer nature reserve. It is an important area for nature conservation, particularly for birds. In late summer, many crowned ducks gather here to prepare for their autumn migration, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Purmerend?
Visitors appreciate the tranquility and peacefulness of the areas, the beautiful views, and the extensive network of bike trails. The unique combination of natural beauty and cultural-historical elements, such as the reclaimed polder landscapes, also makes for a distinctive experience.
Is there a memorial related to the region's history with water?
Yes, the Memorial monument “The Wave” (flood disaster) commemorates the storm surge of 1916. Located with a view over the Gouwzee, this steel monument depicts life-sized figures on a boat, serving as a poignant reminder of the region's historical challenges with water.
Can I explore Waterland Oost by water?
Yes, exploring Waterland Oost by water is highly recommended. Its labyrinth of ditches and waterways makes it an ideal location for canoe tours, offering a unique perspective on the area's natural beauty and allowing you to immerse yourself in nature away from the city.
Most popular attractions around Purmerend
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