Coastal dunes in South Holland officially named Dutch national park

The dunes running on the Dutch coast from Hook of Holland to Hillegom, known as Hollandse Duinen, have officially been granted national park status. This makes the nature area found in South Holland the 22nd national park in the Netherlands. 

Hollandse Duinen granted national park status

Almost two years after applying for national park status, Hollandse Duinen is the newest Dutch national park. Spanning more than 18.000 hectares between Hook of Holland and Hillegom, and reaching up to 9 kilometres wide in some places, the nature area is home to more than 7.000 species of plants and animals.

According to NU.nl, to be recognised as a national park in the Netherlands, a location needs to meet requirements related to nature, science, education and recreation, while also containing “great beauty”. The Hollandse Duinen consists of dunes, beaches, country estates, forests, green parks, peat meadows, bulb fields, villages and towns.

New Dutch national park to receive funds for maintenance

With the official status comes 30 million euros in funds from the government, which the national park can use until 2030 for maintenance and other plans.

“The official status is a recognition and motivation for the more than 60 partners to continue working together structurally towards a healthier and more livable area for plants, animals, and people,” as written in a Hollandse Duinen news release. 

“This is achieved, among other things, by strengthening and expanding nature reserves and green corridors, both in nature and in urban environments.”