DE KIEKKAASTE BIRDWATCHER’S HUT

Watch the waves break over the silt while birds forage for a meal. De Kiekkaaste near Nieuwe Statenzijl – the only Dutch birdwatcher’s hut outside the dyke – provides a stunning view of this wonderful landscape that’s full of life.

The seawall stops at Nieuwe Statenzijl in the east of Groningen. Here, at the border of the Netherlands and Germany, the Eems tidal river flows out into the Wadden Sea. Salt and fresh water meet in this UNESCO World Heritage site, resulting in an intriguing area. It is home to plants, birds, fish and other animals that are unique to this part of the Wadden Sea. Climb up the birdwatcher’s hut to see how water and land converge and how the salt marsh is regularly flooded. Take in the hundreds of dunlin that meet on the Dollard silt fields. Who knows, you might also spot a twite, seal or porpoise.

You may have to push yourself to achieve that beautiful view from the De Kiekkaaste: it’s about a 15-minute walk from the dyke, but the path leading there may get quite muddy. And to be honest: you might want to postpone visiting there if the winds are very strong. Ready? Get those binoculars and defy that mud: the view of countless summer and migratory birds is more than worth it.