Oosterscheldekering Viewpoint and Tidal Nature Entrance

From this viewpoint you once again have an impressive view of the Oosterscheldekering, the largest and perhaps most spectacular part of the Delta Works. Construction was completed in 1986, following the North Sea flood of 1953. The barrier was built to protect Zeeland and the Netherlands from the sea.

Originally the plan was to close off the Oosterschelde completely, as was done with the Grevelingendam and Haringvlietdam. Protests from fishermen, nature conservationists and scientists led to a compromise instead: a nine-kilometre-long, closable storm surge barrier with 65 piers and 62 steel gates. This preserved the tidal area.

Here water, wind and technology come together beautifully. Wind turbines for renewable energy stand on the horizon, while the barrier can hold back the seawater during storms. Information boards and photos show what the area used to look like.

In 2026 a tidal nature entrance was created here, with information on ebb and flow, old lock gates, a photo wall and 'Bas's Bench'. Who was Bas? You'll find out on site.