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Looking for nature?
The Zaan region has unique natural areas full of greenery and water to enjoy.
You can hardly believe it: directly above our busy capital you will find oases of green and water. In several places in the Zaan region, you will find unique peat meadow areas full of special flora and fauna.
All this greenery and water make for heerlijk cycling, walking and boating. Below are our tips for each nature area. Tips per activity can be found on our See & Do page. Enjoy!
On canoe adventure
The Wormer- and Jisperveld is the largest connected peat meadow area in Western Europe. From a canoe, you can sail between the hundreds of islands and enjoy the special nature.
Almost all species of meadow birds found in the Netherlands breed here: godwit, lapwing, redshank, oystercatcher and meadow pipit. The wetlands are also home to rare plants such as sundew, heather, orchids and cuckoo flowers.
Nature reserve canoe route
Unique nature - discover the greenery of Zaandam
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The Twiske
Plenty of opportunities for recreation in this oasis of greenery and water.
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The Guisveld
Rare brackish peat bog that is a paradise for meadow birds.
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Kalverpolder
This stroke landscape offers another view of the Zaanse Schans.
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Westzijderveld
Historic Zaans landscape and popular breeding ground for many birds.
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Wormer and Jisperveld
A patchwork of water and land; Western Europe's largest peat meadow area with rare flora and fauna.
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Jagersveld
Nature and recreation areas where you can heerlijk the water and greenery.
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Zaans Nature and Environment Centre
A green gem in the heart of Zaandam.
Cycling past meadow mills
On the (w)isles in the peat meadows that surround us, wooden and iron mills stand showing off in the landscape.
They seem put there for the composition of your photo, but even in 2022 they still have an important task in managing and preserving the peat meadow area.
Cycle the routes below and get to know the beautiful nature in the Zaan region. Along the way, there are plenty of great places to stop and marvel and have a bite to eat and drink. Have fun cycling!
Cycling through greenery
The heritage route Northern Green shows the charm of Zaan greenery.
This 'Hollandroute' takes you among others through the green Twiske, small hamlets, the Zaanse Schans and the Zaanse houses of the Westzijde.
More cycling tips