Eiland van Brienenoord
Eiland van Brienenoord: a green island in Rotterdam
Eiland van Brienenoord is a small natural island in the Nieuwe Maas, east of Rotterdam city centre and close to De Kuip stadium.
The island was formed during the 19th century through the accumulation of sediment on a sandbank in the river. In 1847 it was purchased by Baron van Brienen, from whom it takes its name, and in 1904 it became part of Rotterdam.
Today, it is a peaceful green area where woodland, grassland, tidal nature and small river beaches contrast with the industrial and urban landscape surrounding it.
An island restored for nature
Between 2020 and 2021, Eiland van Brienenoord underwent a major transformation designed to give more space back to nature and strengthen the island’s connection with the river.
Parts of the shoreline were redesigned, new habitats for tidal plants and animals were created, and walking paths and viewpoints overlooking the Nieuwe Maas were improved.
The island is almost completely free of traffic, making it a particularly pleasant place for walking and escaping the noise of the city for a while.
Walking trails, birds and Scottish Highland cattle
Eiland van Brienenoord has several walking paths and places where you can stop, relax or enjoy a picnic. Its relatively small size means that you can explore it comfortably without spending an entire day there.
The island has woodland, grassland, ponds and wild vegetation that provide habitats for a variety of birds and other wildlife.
Some of its most distinctive inhabitants are Scottish Highland cattle, which help control the vegetation naturally. They move freely through parts of the island, so visitors should keep a safe distance and never feed or approach them.
How to get to Eiland van Brienenoord
The island is connected to Rotterdam by bridges and is easy to explore on foot. Cycling is also permitted on designated paths.
It is located close to De Kuip, Feyenoord’s stadium, and can easily be combined with a walk through this part of Rotterdam-Zuid.
By public transport, you can travel to the area and walk the final section to the island. The WaterTaxi also stops at Stadion Feyenoord, from where you can continue on foot to Eiland van Brienenoord.
Eiland van Brienenoord: practical information
| ℹ️ QUICK INFORMATION | |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Type | Natural island and green area |
| 📍 Area | Nieuwe Maas, near De Kuip |
| ⭐ Highlights | Nature, walking trails, tidal landscape and Highland cattle |
| 🚶 Activities | Walking, birdwatching, cycling and picnics |
| ⏳ Recommended time | 1–2 hours |
| 🕒 Access | From sunrise to sunset |
| 💶 Admission | Free |
| 🚲 Access | On foot and by bicycle on designated paths |
Other parks in Rotterdam
Arboretum Trompenburg | Blijdorp Zoo | Dakpark | Het Park | Kralingse Bos | Luchtpark Hofbogen | Museumpark | Plaswijckpark | Schoonoord | Vroesenpark