The Dunes in the west of The Netherlands run along the North Sea from south to the north, along almost the entire shore. The Dunes protect the low lying lands behind the Dunes and without them the western half of The Netherlands would be submerged by the North Sea. Most parts of the Dunes are a nature reserve but also accessible for walkers, some parts also for cyclists. The Dunes at De Zilk are some of the widest and therefore perfectly suited for long walks.