The Kootwijkerzand is known as the 'Dutch Sahara' due to its expansive, shifting sands.
The tower design explicitly references the architectural style of the monumental Radio Kootwijk transmission station located nearby.
The structure is built using Accoya wood, which is acetylated to prevent fungal decay and weathering in the exposed environment.
Kootwijkerzand is the largest active sand drift in Western Europe, constantly reshaped by wind.
The tower platform provides enough elevation to view the skyline of Apeldoorn and Amersfoort on exceptionally clear days.
The area surrounding the tower is a protected habitat for the sand lizard and several rare insect species.
Uitkijktoren Kootwijkerzand is a 13-meter-tall wooden observation tower located in the heart of the Veluwe region, overlooking the largest active sand drift in Western Europe. The structure is constructed from Accoya wood, a sustainable, modified timber selected for its durability and resistance to weather. From the top platform, visitors gain an unobstructed 360-degree view of the vast, desert-like landscape of Kootwijkerzand and the surrounding pine forests. The tower's design is inspired by the historic radio masts of the nearby Radio Kootwijk, reflecting the region's industrial heritage. It serves as a central vantage point for observing the shifting dunes and the unique ecosystem of the Veluwe nature reserve. Access to the tower is provided via a network of walking and cycling paths that traverse the sandy terrain. The installation is part of a broader landscape management project aimed at preserving the open sandy character of the area against forest encroachment.
The highest platform of the tower, providing an expansive wide-angle perspective of the sand dunes against the tree line.
Bring binoculars to scan for deer and wild boar in the early morning or evening hours.
Wear footwear suitable for walking through deep, loose sand, as the approach paths are not paved.
Stay on marked paths to protect the fragile sand drift ecosystem and avoid disturbing local wildlife.
Attempting to reach the tower by car; the sand drift is a protected area inaccessible to motor vehicles, requiring a walk from parking zones.
Keep dogs on a leash at all times to prevent disturbance to ground-nesting birds and local wildlife.
