Make sensible use of energy

Ramón Hendriks

Hi, I’m Ramón Hendriks, bus driver on the island. In addition, my wife Sygrid and I develop and produce nice island souvenirs. Taking guests from and to the ferry is never boring. I like answering questions and giving advice about the island. We drive electric buses. This fits in with the aim of Schiermonnikoog of being self sustainable regarding energy. Just like the solar panels on the roofs of the farms on the island. Do you want to get rid of some energy yourself after you have arrived? Take the bike or take a stroll and discover the best spots!

Enjoy our island!

Long-distance traveler

The Wadden Sea is of vital importance for the red knot. Red knots breed in the northern polar region, but winter much more to the south. Some of them winter in the Wadden area, others fly further to Africa. But all of them really need the mudflats of the Wadden Sea to replenish their energy, because these are an almost inexhaustible source of food. Red knots try to be efficient when it comes to energy use, just like we do.

Nature is there for us to enjoy, so feel free and go out. But take nature into consideration; do not disturb any animals, don’t pick any flowers and take your waste with you. In the grazing area, please stick to the rules: keep 50 metres distance to the herd (don’t try to pet of feed the animals) and don’t cross the herd.

Use water sparingly

Ilja Zonneveld, photographer, councillor and one of the creators of Schierzeep, with water mint.

Fire hazard

Halbe Kroes, one of the owners
of pension Westerburen and volunteer
of the fire brigade of Schiermonnikoog.

Our most important rules of conduct

Do not disturb

This means: don’t startle animals, keep your dog on a leash (or under control in designated off-leash areas), don’t pick anything, and of course dispose of your trash in a bin or take it home. Wild camping is not allowed on Schiermonnikoog.

Don’t access breeding areas

From April 15 to July 15 the Oosterkwelder and the beach to the east of pole 10 are closed, except for the shoreline. The same applies to parts of the Rif and the Westerstrand. Local signs tell you where you are allowed to go.

Leave the grazers alone

To keep the dune landscape open Natuurmonumenten deploys several large grazing animals: cattle, horses, sheep, and goats. Don’t pet the animals and don’t feed them, keep 50 metres distance, keep your dog on its leash and don’t cross the herds.

Smoking and campfires

Because of the danger of wildfires from April 1 to Octobre 1 smoking and campfires are not allowed in the National Park. A campfire on the beach is only allowed when you have a valid permission. Please call 0031-591-531421 for more information.

Activity beach

Kiting, kitesurfing and sand yachting are only allowed on the recreational beach between pole 3 and pole 5.

Group activities

Are you planning a group activity in the National Park? Please contact Het Baken well in advance to ask for permission.

Seals: do not disturb

Is there a seal on the beach, young or old? Keep at least 30 metres distance and keep your dog on the leash. Only if you see clear signs of illness or wounds you may call the EHBZ: 0031-591-531421.

Careful with water

Use drinking water sparingly, especially when the weather is dry.

Cycling and horse riding

When you are cycling or horse riding, please stay on the designated paths. You can find these on the map, for example from the VVV.

Safety on the beach

You can swim under supervision of KNRM lifeguards in July and August on the beach at the end of the Prins Bernhardweg. Always take the tide into account and always make sure you can still stand on the ground. Call 112 when you have found a dangerous substance.

Welcome to National Park
Schiermonnikoog

An initiative by