Starting point IJmuiden aan Zee

IJmuiden aan Zee is associated with Kennemer beach, the marina, the Kennemerboulevard and the dune area behind it with the Kennemer lake. All three routes that start here pass through it.

 

  • The Harbour Route (red) in IJmuiden links various highlights: the Marina Seaport, the high Semaphore dunes with beautiful views, Kennemer lake and the Bunker Museum. There’s an impressive view of the sea lock complex and the Forteiland (island fortress). The coastal fort on the island was built in 1885 and is part of the Defence Line of Amsterdam, a former military defence line.
  • The Kennemer Lake Route (green) lives up to its name because you walk through the beautiful natural surroundings of Kennemer lake. The lake was created in 1990 to compensate for the nature lost during the construction of the marina, the boulevard, the flats, hotels and car parks in IJmuiden. It is teeming with birds, including Eurasian coots and various duck species. Special plants such as marsh grass of Parnassus and dune gentian grow in the damp, marshy dune valley. You’ll also walk past various types of bunkers from the German Atlantic Wall.
  • The Dune Route (yellow) is the ideal option for those who want to take a longer walk in IJmuiden. During this walk, you’ll pass the Marina Seaport, the high Semaphore dunes and the Bunker Museum. This museum is located in a former Second World War bunker complex. The route also passes through the dune region around Kennemer lake.