Experience Nature in Bergen

A stay at Park Buiten Bergen places you right in the heart of nature. The Bergen area combines forests, dunes, polders and the sea in one unique region. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful stroll or a more adventurous coastal walk, you’ll find it here. Below we share our favourite routes – plus a few practical tips for birdwatchers and international guests.

From your accommodation, you can walk straight into the Schoorl Dunes, the widest and tallest dune area in the Netherlands. Discover kilometres of trails through drifting sands, pine forests and heathlands. Tip: follow the purple marked trail (11 km) for a varied walk with scenic viewpoints, shifting dunes and heather fields. The brown marked trail (8 km) leads from Schoorl to Bergen through varied forests. Birdwatchers often spot woodlarks, hawks and great spotted woodpeckers here.

Combine culture and nature on a walk from the artists’ village Bergen, visit Museum Kranenburgh and walk to the beach at Bergen aan Zee. Start at Bergen station, stroll through the Bergerbos forest into the dunes and end your route with a breeze along the North Sea coast. This circular walk is about 16 km long and ideal for a day trip. For international guests: this walk perfectly showcases the Dutch landscape transition from forest to dunes to sea. Don’t forget your camera!

South of Bergen lies the North Holland Dune Reserve, a protected and peaceful natural area rich in rare plants and bird species. Birding tip: bring binoculars and head out early. You might spot nightingales, wheatears or even buzzards. The brown marked 6 km circular walk from the Uilenvangersweg car park takes you past scenic dune lakes.

Prefer a shorter, more charming walk? Stroll through Bergen-Binnen and enjoy art galleries, quiet lanes, the Ruïnekerk and old trees. Stop at a local café or boutique along the way.

• Language: Most signs are in Dutch, but many routes are available in English via apps like Komoot or AllTrails.

• Getting around: Park Buiten Bergen is the perfect base. You can walk or cycle straight into the natural surroundings.

• Best travel time: Spring and late summer are ideal for birdwatching; coastal walks are beautiful year-round.

Walking in Bergen is more than just stretching your legs – it’s about connecting with nature. From Park Buiten Bergen, each day brings a new trail to follow and something new to discover – a bird you’ve never seen, a hidden path, or the fresh scent of pine after the rain.

Don’t forget your walking shoes – nature is calling.