Sint Laurense Weihoek - Nature

The Sint Laurense Weihoek, located between Grijpskerke and Middelburg, is a unique and valuable nature reserve of approximately 110 hectares. It is known as the top area for meadow birds on Walcheren and forms part of one of the 40 Geosites of the UNESCO Geopark Schelde Delta.

Why visit the Sint Laurense Weihoek?

• Paradise for meadow birds: During the breeding season, the area teems with lapwings, redshanks, black-tailed godwits and avocets. In spring, chicks can often be seen between the tall grass.
• Unique ancient landscape: A historic landscape with clay on peat, which has remained low and wet due to peat extraction and subsidence – ideal for nature, less so for farming.
• Peace for birds: The area is not accessible to the public, allowing the birds to breed, feed and overwinter undisturbed.
• Easily visible from the road: Thanks to the small surrounding polder roads, you can still enjoy the rich birdlife.
• Perfect for cyclists: The quiet country roads around the Weihoek are ideal for a nature-filled bike ride. Enjoy the open landscape, the tranquillity and the impressive bird sounds.

Which birds can you see?

• Breeding birds (spring): black-tailed godwit, lapwing, avocet, redshank, meadow pipit, little ringed plover and skylark.
• Migrants (autumn): curlew, whimbrel, ruff, golden plover, wood sandpiper, common sandpiper, spoonbill and occasionally the rare dotterel or black-winged stilt.
• Winter visitors (winter): wigeon, white-fronted goose, brent goose and large flocks of golden plovers.

Practical information

• Access: The reserve itself is not open to the public but can be easily observed from the road. Binoculars recommended!
• Best viewpoints: The area is best viewed from small polder roads such as the Stenen Kruisweg, Ossenbergweg, Buttingseweg and Zandvoortseweg.
• Parking: Along the country roads there is limited parking space. Park responsibly and keep access clear for agricultural traffic.
• Best time to visit: Spring (breeding season) and winter (migratory birds) are the most spectacular.

A visit to the Sint Laurense Weihoek is highly recommended for nature lovers, birdwatchers and those seeking peace and quiet. Enjoy the wide-open polder landscape, the songs of meadow birds and this unique piece of ancient land on Walcheren.

Furthermore Sint Laurense Weihoek is near the following sights: Middelburg Boat Tour (±2,0 km), Guided City Walk through Middelburg (±2,1 km), Zeeland Museum (±2,2 km), Abbey Tower De Lange Jan (±2,2 km) & Old Town Hall of Middelburg (±2,3 km).

For information

Zandvoortweg, Middelburgg