Nature · 2 min read · 2 April 2026
Walking across the Vliehors: the Sahara of the North
A sand plain of over 2,100 hectares on the western tip of Vlieland. About the landscape, the lost village, and the possibilities for taking a trip there.
Sand on the western tip
The Vliehors lies on the western tip of Vlieland. The VVV cites approximately 2,120 hectares for this sand plain, which is known as the Sahara of the North. The landscape consists mainly of sand, with the North Sea and the Wadden Sea on either side.
A changing landscape
Sea currents, wind, and storm surges continue to shape the island. West-Vlieland, once the main village, disappeared into the sea in 1736. That village lay further west than the island reaches today.
Access and trips
Part of the Vliehors is a military training ground. Access depends on exercises and local closures. De Vliehors Expres organises trips across the sand plain; routes, departure points, and times are provided by the operator. We cannot promise a marked public walking route or a fixed trip duration for every day.
More information about access to nature areas is available from Staatsbosbeheer and on our nature page.
Bronnen
vlieland.net, vlieland.net, staatsbosbeheer.nl.
Laatst bijgewerkt: 13 oktober 2026
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