About Zeeland

Zeeland is one of the twelve provinces of the Netherlands. It is situated on the North Sea coast in the extreme southwest of the country and it is transected by the Ooster and Wester-schelde. The southern border of Zeeland also forms the border between the Netherlands and Belgium.

Click here for some stunning panoramic images of the historic city of Middelburg.

Literally translated, the name ‘Zeeland’ means sea and land. The name speaks for itself. Approximately a third of the province consists of water and two thirds of land. The history of Zeeland will always be linked to the water, which, depending on the circumstances, is sometimes deemed a friend and sometimes a foe.

Download the brochure Everything you should know about Zeeland.

Nature and recreation

Whichever route you take into Zeeland, the open, panoramic scenery is impressive. The character of the countryside is, to a large extent, determined by arable farms. Cities, villages and industry take up the requisite space but an increasing proportion of the province is devoted to nature reserves.

All in all, the province is very popular with cyclists and walkers, whether residents or tourists. Bridle paths and roller blade routes tempt one to try various relaxing activities and, with all its water, Zeeland is, of course, a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. Not only can sailors and surfers indulgethemselves on the open coastal waters, but rowing and canoeing are also possible on the streams of Zeeland Flanders and the water courses of Walcheren. The underwater world of the Oosterschelde and the Grevelingen attracts a great many divers from within and outside the Netherlands.

Zeeland’s 600-km-long coast means that it is easy to find a quiet spot on the beach or water, even on busy days.