The wandering dunes are a notable feature of the southern Meuse (Maasduinen Zuid). To the west, the dunes gradually turn into low, terraced areas of sand which afford a sweeping view of the river landscape.
The Maasduinen nature reserve forms an important ecological link between the Netherlands and Germany. The areas of heath and wandering dunes are listed as protected natural monuments under the Nature Conservation Act. They are of essential importance for plants and animals (e.g. red deer) and as wintering grounds for cranes.
Several streams cut through the southern Meuse dunes from east to west. Valuable biotopes which provide ideal living habitats for beavers have developed here. Furthermore, the Meuse functions as a flood regulator and makes a significant contribution to this special landscape of pools, bog lakes and swamps.
The remains of the Fossa Eugeniana are also worth seeing. This was a canal dug by the Spanish in the 17th century in order to link the Meuse and Rhine rivers. Various forts were also erected at that time for military purposes, some of which are still visible today (Fort Hazepoot).
The easy accessibility of the Meuse dunes combined with their varied aquatic and natural landscape makes them an important area for recreation and leisure as well as the most significant economic factor in the region. Much has been invested in the infrastructure here in recent years through the creation of cycle paths and walking trails. Three visitor centres with biological stations are currently being planned. A ferry links the villages to the right and left of the Meuse.