Bird Watching from the Special Bird Observatory Tij

On the island of Goeree-Overflakkee, on the edge of the Scheelhoek nature reserve, you will find the gigantic, photogenic bird observatory Tij. The observatory is built on a sand nest in the shape of an egg of the sandwich tern, which breeds in this vulnerable area. Various nature organizations and many partners have created a place where people and animals can enjoy a beautiful natural environment together. A visit to this spectacular birdwatching point is definitely worth it if you are looking for extraordinary places in the Netherlands.
Observatorium Tij

Bird Watching from the Special Bird Observatory Tij

On the island of Goeree-Overflakkee, on the edge of the Scheelhoek nature reserve, you will find the gigantic, photogenic bird observatory Tij. The observatory is built on a sand nest in the shape of an egg of the sandwich tern, which breeds in this vulnerable area. Various nature organizations and many partners have created a place where people and animals can enjoy a beautiful natural environment together. A visit to this spectacular birdwatching point is definitely worth it if you are looking for extraordinary places in the Netherlands.

Be surprised by the architecture in the middle of nature

From the parking lot you can walk to Tij in about 10 minutes. The road to Tij is already beautiful. Note: If the water is high, the walkway may be under water. So always check this before you set off. Via winding paths, stairs, wooden decking and between the reeds you arrive at a tunnel that takes you to the core of the 8 meter high and 11 meter long giant egg. The tunnel has beautiful viewpoints from where you can already spot many birds.

If you walk further, you will be surprised by the impressive structure, the lines of the wooden beams and the viewpoints where the sun’s rays shine through. This makes bird watching very special!

Go on a bird watching adventure

Climb the iron spiral staircase to enjoy the 360° view over the unique landscape, Haringvliet and the Haringvliet locks. In the breeding season you have a great chance of spotting common terns, terns and black-headed gulls. Outside the breeding season, when the water becomes shallower, the area attracts several species of ducks, spoonbills, kingfishers and egrets. Bring your binoculars to fully enjoy! Which birds will you spot?!

Accessibility

The bird observatory is easily accessible. Park your car for free in the Marinehaven car park in Stellendam and walk in about 10 minutes to the observatory.

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We are Abel & Danique, the enthusiastic travel couple behind HappyTravelSpots. With this blog we want to prepare you for your next travel so you know where to find all the happy travel spots. 

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