For Peter Dunselman, a tour past the sand sculptures in Julianadorp became more than just a pleasant route. Together with Kirsti, he got on his bike and rediscovered how much beauty comes together in the area.
You sometimes think you know your own surroundings well. Until you really get back on your bike and look closely. During a ride past the sand sculptures in Julianadorp, Kirsti and I noticed once again how much beauty actually comes together here.
We deliberately left Huisduinen early that morning because it was going to get warm. Soon we were riding into the dunes, heading towards Julianadorp. For me, it had been years since I had cycled this route in that way. That is precisely what made it so special. The tranquility was a real eye-opener. We encountered hardly anyone and cycled along beautiful paths straight through the dune landscape to Zee van Tijd, where we started with a cup of coffee on the terrace.
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At Zee van Tijd, the most impressive sculptures on the route were immediately apparent to me. Not only because of the subjects, but also because of the location and the technique. I found the rendering of the bulb fields, in particular, with so much detail in the sand, really skillfully done. There, you could immediately see how well the Sand Spectacle fits in with the surroundings.
After that, we cycled on to Landal Ooghduyne. The sculptures looked beautiful there too. They fit well with the holiday atmosphere of the place and are situated right next to a large playground and a terrace. As we walked around there, I immediately thought: I really want to come back here again with my grandchildren.
What struck me along the way was how well everything actually connects here. For my work, I travel to many parts of the country, from Limburg to Groningen, and precisely because of that, I see how special the variety here is. Dunes, beach, village, shopping centers, and recreation are all located close together. On top of that, the cycle and walking paths, the facilities, and the places where you can stop for a moment are simply very well organized. You really come here for peace and experience.
I also found the themes of the sculptures strong. They really suit Julianadorp and Den Helder. From recreation and nature to flowers and maritime influences, you feel that the artworks aren't just placed anywhere, but really tell a story about the location.
Finally, we drove to Loopuyt Park. That truly felt like the grand finale of the route. Several impressive sculptures together, right in the middle of a village square that beautifully brings together the present and past of Julianadorp. That made an impression. We concluded the tour with a delicious lunch at 1909, making it not just a beautiful route, but a truly complete outing.
What made this trip particularly special for us was the overall picture. The sculptures are the reason to set out, but along the way you feel anew just how powerful this environment actually is. Sometimes you simply have to get back on the bike yourself for that.
In any case, we will definitely go take another look.
The sand sculptures can be viewed at various locations in Julianadorp and Den Helder until the end of August. Hop on your bike and discover for yourself how this route brings together art, a coastal feel, and the character of the region in a surprising way.
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