Herkingen on the Grevelingenmeer

Herkingen lies directly on the Grevelingenmeer. Nature watching, water and historic buildings offer various starting points for planning a trip. If you are looking for a hotel in Herkingen, you can consider whether you would rather spend your time birdwatching, taking a walk or exploring the village’s history.

Nature and water around Herkingen

Herkingen Marina is located directly on the Grevelingenmeer and has berths for visiting boats. Wildarena Zuid is a lookout point on the Slikken van Flakkee. From there, dozens of species of waterbirds can be observed. Visitors can also see Fjord horses, Heck cattle and Scottish Highland cattle at a watering place.

Natuurgebied Paardengat is also suitable for observing wading birds and waterbirds. The Paardengat Creek itself is not accessible, but the area can be viewed from the lookout point. Parking is available along the road. The lookout point at Natuurgebied Paardengat makes a good stopping place during a cycling or walking tour. Check the signs on site before planning your visit.

On Goeree-Overflakkee, a network of 38 creeks developed from the 3rd century AD onward. This regional landscape context complements the specific nature-watching opportunities in Herkingen.

Buildings and village history

The Visbank consists of four sandstone columns and a wooden tent roof, and dates from the 17th century. It is listed as a Rijksmonument. According to local tradition, old parts of a former post mill were reused in its construction.

The Nederlands Hervormde Kerk at Scharloodijk 33 is a simple, rectangular hall church dating from 1788. Its described features include arched windows and a small tower with an eight-sided spire. De Dankbaarheid is a round grain mill of the Grondzeiler type and is considered the smallest mill on Goeree-Overflakkee. The village’s history thus brings together different architectural forms: a church with a clear rectangular floor plan, a column structure and a round mill.

Excursions, tea and events

The Wandelpuzzeltocht Herkingen passes through the Oud-Herkingen polder. The route is completed twice, for a total distance of 14.20 kilometres. As route materials may change, check the current version of the route before setting out.

At Theetuin de Bongerd, you can choose from more than 100 tea blends, including black, green and white tea, as well as rooibos, fruit, herbal and flower teas. If you plan to visit the terrace or pavilion, check the opening hours in advance.

The Jaarmarkt Herkingen is held on the second Saturday in July; the exact date varies from year to year. For getting your bearings on the water, the status of Oude Haven Herkingen is also important: it has been out of service since November 2023 and remains closed to use. If your plans depend on it, check the notices on site.

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