Nieuws-Namen, Terneuzen

A real route for bird lovers! During this tour you will cycle through the vast polders and along the Westerschelde. In the beautiful nature reserves you will find unique bird species. Zeeuws-Vlaanderen is the perfect destination for anyone who wants to enjoy peace and nature.

The Grote Putting is a popular area for migratory birds and is home to many breeding bird species. Bird-watching huts have been built here, where you have a beautiful view of the bluethroat and reed warbler, among others.

Also in Margarethapolder you will find huts where you can spot birds. Here you will find both migratory and breeding birds. Between the reed beds you can spot the black-tailed godwit, the lapwing and the redshank. The Margarethapolder was reclaimed in the 17th century and the farmers named the polder after Saint Margaret. They believed that Margaret protected them.

The Verdronken Land van Saeftinghe is not only the habitat of thousands of birds, but is also known as the largest brackish water salt marsh area in Europe. As the water constantly moves from high to low, the area is constantly changing. At low tide the area reveals vast mudflats and flats, while at high tide the salt marshes are flooded, providing ever-changing views and living conditions.

In the Middle Ages, this area was a fertile polder where a lot of agricultural land could be found. There were several villages, including the village of Saeftinghe.

In the 16th century, during the Eighty Years' War, a conflict began between the Dutch rebels and the Spanish Empire. To stop the Spanish troops, the States General of the Netherlands decided to inundate, or deliberately flood, parts of Zeeland and Flanders. In 1570 and 1584, the dikes were breached, flooding the area. Because of the inundations, the area became uninhabitable.

But it didn't stop there. The All Saints Flood of 1570 was one of the most devastating disasters, permanently losing a large part of Saeftinghe to the sea. Subsequent storm surges, such as the St. Peter's Flood of 1651, further aggravated the situation, permanently turning the land into a mud and salt marsh area.

The Drowned Land of Saeftinghe is now a protected nature reserve and a popular destination for nature and bird lovers and adventurers. The area is accessible only under the guidance of guides because of the high tides and marshy terrain. Visitors can participate in excursions and hikes that lead them through the area's rich history and diverse nature.