This very elongated island is, after Texel, the second largest island in the Wadden. Its countryside is varied: immense beaches, dunes, salt meadows and wadden hosting hundreds of birds, coniferous forests, polders and small villages. Much appreciated by summer visitors, it has preserved its wild appearance in some places. The island also has several nature reserves, including De Boschplaat. It was the birthplace of the sailor, W. Barents (16C), discoverer of Novaya Zemlya and Spitzbergen.