Biesbosch Museum Island

As one of the last extensive freshwater tidal areas in Northwestern Europe, National Park De Biesbosch is a paradise for nature lovers. Created after the Saint Elizabeth's Flood of 1421, this marshland is an enormous source of inspiration for photographers, bird watchers, recreationists, artists, and cultural institutions. The Biesbosch Museum Island showcases the history, present, and future of this area, but also particularly highlights how humans have shaped the area and continue to earn their living there. And all of this in an award-winning building...

In and around the museum island
After spotting a fish or white-tailed eagle during a boat tour and then searching for beaver tracks and lodges by boat and on foot, you can enjoy a cup of coffee in the museum: “a surprisingly versatile location,” said a previous visitor. The Biesbosch Experience - a scale model of the area with polders, dikes, and streams - teaches children in a playful and educational way more about the hydrological functioning and the importance of this area. Within three quarters of an hour, you'll notice how the water level in the area goes from 'extremely low' to 'extremely high' and back again.

“Fantastic building that completely blends into the environment”
The museum opened its doors in 1994 and was expanded in 2001. The beautiful building has a green roof, where the grass thrives, but also provides sustainable insulation. The building was nominated for Building of the Year 2016 by the renowned ArchDaily and won no less than two awards at the Architizer Awards 2016, including the public award.

Experience Dutch ingenuity
Just a stone's throw away from the attractive Old Dutch city of Dordrecht, you will discover at Biesbosch Museum Island that typical Dutch control over water. Here, battles have been fought against water, polders have been created, and nature has been shaped to our needs. And to achieve high water safety, parts have also been depoldered and returned to nature. Come and experience how humans and nature collaborate in an ideal way.

Brabant Cycling Café
Biesbosch Museum Island in Werkendam is an official Brabant Cycling Café. At the Brabant Cycling Cafés, you feel especially welcome as a cyclist! You can enjoy a delicious snack and drink there, and use facilities such as a repair kit, bike pump, and e-bike charging point.

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