In my previous post about the Plompetoren of Koudekerke, I thought it would take a while before I saw another unforgettable scene. However, nature surprised me sooner than expected. On one side of the dike, the sky appeared flat and gray. Yet, as soon as I crossed to the other side, a breathtaking sunset unfolded across the South Coast of Schouwen.
The gentle slopes of the dike offered a perfect vantage point. Meanwhile, the wind picked up and carried the salty scent of the sea. At the same time, a golden light began to spill across the Koudekerkse Inlaag, a special nature reserve located at the very edge of Schouwen. Indeed, this area is one of Zeeland’s true coastal treasures.
A Unique Part of Zeeland
The Koudekerkse Inlaag forms part of Oosterschelde National Park and belongs to the European Natura 2000 network. It spans 1,300 hectares and shelters birds such as oystercatchers, avocets, and redshanks. Salt-loving plants, including samphire and lesser sea spurrey, thrive here.
The area’s distinctive “karrenvelden” feature long strips of water bordered by low banks. Centuries ago, workers dug clay here to reinforce the sea dikes. Today, those man-made features blend naturally with the landscape, creating pools, channels, and drainage paths that attract wildlife year-round.
Capturing the Scene in the Wind
I quickly set up my camera. In the foreground stretched the Koudekerkse Inlaag; in the distance lay Burgh-Haamstede. The sky was full of color. The wind bent the reeds to the left, adding motion to the frame. As the sun sank lower, golden light spread across the clouds, turning each moment into magic.
Bring Zeeland’s Beauty Home
Would you like this sunset over the South Coast of Schouwen on your wall? Browse my collection on Art Heroes and bring a piece of Zeeland’s enchanting coastline into your home.
View more photos via the link, which, like this one, are part of my portfolio ‘Lakes & Rivers‘.