What are the Duinbossen De Haan?
The Duinbossen De Haan form a green oasis of more than 150 hectares, combining open dune landscape with extensive forest. The area borders the beach directly, so if you'd like to combine a forest walk with a beach walk, this is the place for you. The forests were first planted in 1838 to prevent dune sand from shifting inland, and they're home to special species such as the sand grasshopper and the red wood ant. For kids, there are several play areas with climbing structures and adventurous trails winding through the trees.
Hiking trail in the Duinbossen De Haan
The most popular hike is the Duinbossen hiking route, and there are actually a few different ways to explore it:
1. Duinbossen hiking route (11.2 km)
The start and end point is the picturesque tram station in De Haan. You'll head into the dune forest through the historic district, walk a good stretch along the beach into Wenduine, and climb up to the Spioenkop for a beautiful view, before heading back to De Haan through the dunes.
2. Half the route (approx. 5.5 km)
Is 11 km a bit much? Simply walk to Wenduine and take the coastal tram back to De Haan.
3. Adjacent nature reserve De Zandpanne
Want to explore even further into nature? This valuable dune area between Wenduine and De Haan connects seamlessly to the Duinbossen, offering a beautiful mix of dune forest, open dunes, and damp dune valleys.
Parking is available at the main entrance on Zwarte Kiezel in De Haan, which is also the starting point for all the routes.
Visiting Duinbossen De Haan with your dog
Good news for four-legged friends: dogs are more than welcome in the Duinbossen De Haan, as long as they're on a leash. There's also an off-leash dog area near the Zwarte Kiezel parking lot, where your loyal companion can run around freely. Traveling with your dog? At Dune Hotel Nieuwpoort, you can easily book one of our dog-friendly rooms, so you can both fully unwind together.
