Island van Brienenoord – Oasis under the Bridge

Image by L.V.M. van Daalen

Under the Van Brienenoord bridge lies a long island created by sludge piling up in the bend of the river the Maas since the beginning of the 19th century. There was a lot of forest until WWII, when the Germans used the trunks to keep airplanes from landing. What was left ended in the fires during the Hunger Winter.

Nowadays it’s a natural island again. There are some holiday gardens here, Scout clubs and the remains of a dock to build the metro-tunnel. But still it’s very green. In summertime Highland Cattle walks around free. On the East side the ground has been washed down. And instead of rebuilding it, they made a bridge to go over it and enjoy this miniature swamp.

During my bike tours I saw this island from the bridge above. I know I had to be able to go there, as I saw the little bridge, sheds at the gardens and people walking. But I didn’t know the entrance. It took me some time to figure out. I’ve toured the island a couple of times, although the terrain is sometimes too rough for less than an ATB (All Terrain Bike).

One time I came eye to eye with one of those Scottish cows. I had no idea if they were harmless or not, and I hesitated a little. The road was very narrow, so I had to pass on a very short distance. I did survive and do not especially praise my cowardliness, just the average city girl.

Details about this spot (Show on map)
Island van Brienenoord | Relaxing | Free
Brienenoord | Zuid
24 hours daily