Nature
in the Land of Leeghwater
The Eilandspolder - Peace and quiet near the city of Alkmaar
In the heart of the Land van Leeghwater lies the Eilandspolder: a water-rich nature reserve nestled amongst historic villages, canals and open peat meadows. Centuries ago, this area was part of the Schermereiland, surrounded by large lakes. Today, you’ll find a protected landscape featuring reed beds, grasslands, waterways and a wealth of bird species. The Eilandspolder is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet, birdwatchers and visitors who wish to experience the landscape at a leisurely pace: on foot, by bike or from the water in a canoe, on a SUP board or in an electric boat.
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Cycling and hiking
Cycling and hiking
Hop on your bike or put on your walking shoes and enjoy the beauty of the Eilandspolder. Here you can really enjoy yourself!
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Bird watching
Bird watching
Birds really love the Eilandspolder! All year round, you can spot the most beautiful bird species here. Will you drop by?
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Discover the Eilandspolder
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Sailing through the Eilandspolder
Sailing through the Eilandspolder
The Eilandspolder is wonderful to explore from the water. Sail across the water in a canoe, SUP-board or whisper boat and enjoy the beautiful landscape.
More Land of Leeghwater?
Round off your visit to the Eilandspolder with a walk through historic villages or a visit to windmills and heritage sites in the surrounding area. De Rijp and Graft lie on the edge of this water-rich landscape and offer insights into the former Schermereiland, trade and village life. The Schermer windmills and the Schermer reclamation project also demonstrate how significantly water management has shaped the Land van Leeghwater.
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De Rijp
De Rijp grew into a prosperous village thanks to herring fishing, whaling and trade. Monumental houses, narrow streets and historic facades tell the story of a village that once played an important role in the maritime history of North Holland.
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The Schermer
De Schermer originated in the seventeenth century when a large lake was drained using dozens of windmills. Today, you can still see the tight parcelling of land, ring dykes and historic mills that remind you of this impressive feat of Dutch water management.
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Graft
Graft was once located on open water and was linked to shipping and trade for centuries. Narrow streets, old houses and the surrounding polder landscape tell the story of a community that lived by and with the water for centuries.