Oranjezon - Nature

Oranjezon is one of the most diverse and wildlife-rich nature reserves in Zeeland, located on the northwest coast of Walcheren, between Oostkapelle and Vrouwenpolder. Covering more than 400 hectares, it forms part of the larger nature reserve De Manteling van Walcheren.

What can you expect in nature reserve Oranjezon?

Here you walk through a unique transition zone from beach and dunes to deciduous and pine forests, full of special flora and fauna.

• Varied Dune Landscape: From young dunes dating from the 13th to 17th centuries, through dune grasslands and dense thickets of hawthorn and bramble, to deciduous and pine forests – Oranjezon offers an exceptionally varied landscape.
• Rich Wildlife: The area is home to roe deer and a large population of fallow deer. They – along with the grazing ponies – help to keep the landscape open. Also remarkable are the many butterflies and insects attracted to flowering plants such as orchids and grass of Parnassus.
• Bird Paradise: Oranjezon is an important site for birds: as a breeding area, a winter refuge and a stopover during migration. More than 125 species have been recorded, around sixty of which breed here.

History

• Water: For over 100 years, Oranjezon supplied drinking water to Middelburg and surrounding villages. Water extraction ended in 1995, but the site remains owned by the water company Evides. Since 2002, management has been in the hands of the foundation Het Zeeuwse Landschap.
• Small Exhibition Centre: At the entrance you’ll find a small exhibition about the history and nature of Oranjezon. An information board provides more details about the area and its walking routes.

Walking Routes through Oranjezon

There are four marked walking routes in Oranjezon, ranging from 3 to 7 kilometres. Each route takes you through a different part of this varied dune landscape:

• 2.5 km – Tower Route: A 2.5 km walk along water, woodland and climbing trees. Great fun for the whole family!
• 4.0 km – Forest Route: A delightful 4 km walk through the wooded part.
• 4.5 km – Parnassia Route: A 4.5 km trail through dunes and wet valleys. You’ll often see a herd of konik horses and plenty of fallow deer.
• 6.5 km – Fallow Deer Route: A very diverse 6.5 km route that showcases all the characteristic landscapes of Oranjezon.

Practical Information

• Location: Oranjezon starts at the end of the Koningin Emmaweg, just outside Oostkapelle. At the beginning of the road there is a large car park.
• Entrance Ticket: A day ticket is required for access. It can be purchased from the ticket machine at the old pumping station near the entrance. Members of Het Zeeuwse Landschap have free entry.
• Opening Hours: Oranjezon is open daily to walkers from sunrise to sunset. The area may only be accessed via marked paths.

A Visit to Oranjezon is a Natural Experience

Whether you come to spot fallow deer, admire rare flowers, or simply walk in the fresh sea air – Oranjezon offers something special in every season. Come and discover it for yourself, and be amazed by the rich life between dunes and forest.

Immerse yourself in nature on Walcheren and experience Oranjezon at its finest!

For information

Kon. Emmaweg 22, Vrouwenpolder