On an adventure to the nature reserve Oranjezon

I take you to Oranjezon, a heavenly piece of nature in Zeeland, protected and managed by the Zeeland Landscape Foundation. The variety of forests, dunes, water, beaches and wildlife makes it great fun and educational for children to walk and explore, regardless of age.

Ezra and I set out together and chose the four-kilometer earthen route. With a rising sun it was a beautiful start of the day. Apart from some rustling here and there and the enthusiastic voice of Ezra, it was as quiet as a mouse. Ezra went on an adventure with his balance bike. Running up and down hills, dragging branches, studying mushrooms, hiding stones, looking for frogs and fish in the water, climbing trees, storming the dunes, playing hide and seek in the high grass, collecting shells, cycling towards the sea, stamping his boots in the water, what a joy to be here! When Ezra got on the swing at the end of the long beach walk and I was treated to a huge laugh and the beautiful view of the sea, I could only enjoy it. What a perfect morning.

The three kilometer long orange route is a nice alternative during a day at Oranjezon. A fun and fairly easy route with some hills, forest, grass and sandy areas. Partly because of all the berries and many plants it is a true bird’s paradise. About in the middle of the hike you pass a large watchtower. Clearly the highlight of this route, as you really feast your eyes when you stand at the top of the tower and have an insane view of the nature reserve and the sea. A real gift! Ezra also walked the entire route himself this time. This trail is good to walk with small children, but be sure to bring a baby carrier.

A place with lots of variation, a place that shows its natural beauty from many sides and above all a place that will always surprise. No wonder then that this historic gem is my favourite Zeeland nature reserve. And if I may give one more tip: get out of the house early. It feels like you are alone in the world, like you are the first to step into this piece of nature, like you are the first to enjoy this beauty.

• Paid parking is available across from Uitspanning Oranjezon
• Admission to Nature Reserve Oranjezon is 1 euro (children under 16 free)
• The dog is unfortunately not allowed due to wildlife and livestock
• A baby carriage or stroller is unfortunately not practical to take with you
• Enjoy the view at Aloha Beach pavilion
• After hiking, you can eat and drink at Uitspanning Oranjezon
• Don’t forget to bring a bucket?