Until
a few years ago, IJmuiden led a quiet life, at least with regards to
tourism. Much of the industrial bustle was, and still is, centred around
harbour-related activities, such as Corus (Hoogovens) steel works and the
fishing industry. As a result, the resort is full of contrasts offering
endless opportunities to roam the dunes and beaches with only the
seagulls to accompany you.
In
the past few years, much has changed, however. New is the IJmuiden
beach,
which was raised, wedged in the 'pit' between the coast and the
south
pier of the North Sea Channel. It is now a unique beach where nature and
tourist facilities are perfectly combined. There are beautiful walks to
take through the dune area. If the sea is too rough, or if you find the
breakers a little too dangerous for your children, you may take them
paddling in the man-made inland lake on the
beach. Directly to the south
of IJmuiden lies the Kennemerduinen national
park, an extensive nature
reserve which is also used for drinking water collection and
purification. Don't miss it! Pictures 11-05-2002
The
relatively new Seaport Marina borders the IJmuiden
beach. A
promenade
runs the full length of the marina where you can take a wonderful stroll,
do a bit of shopping or admire the yachts moored in the marina. Many sea
yachtsmen and people who sail regularly between the UK and the Continent
have already discovered this new harbour.
Would
you like to go off-shore fishing for a day? Then visit the fishing
village of IJmuiden. IJmuiden also has plenty to offer gourmets. Its
seafood in particular has built up quite a reputation. This should come
as no surprise - after all, what could be fresher than seafood prepared
straight from the harbour.
A little further inland the district has a lot more
to offer than you might at first expect, such as the traditional fishing
village of Oud-Velsen, an extensive shopping area, a visit to the sea
locks of the North Sea Channel
(one of the largest in the world) and
Fort IJmuiden. At a stone's throw away lies
Spaarnwoude recreational
area where you can ski all year round, and the town of Beverwijk with
its Black and Oriental
markets. There is nothing you cannot get at these
markets, ranging from exotic fruits to the most exquisite jewellery
Home
The Heartache Of Leaving
IJmuiden by Dirk Stiller