The Schoorl Dunes are part of the protected Noordhollands Duinreservaat.
The dunes not only protect the villages and cities from rough North Sea winter storms, but are also home to a variety of trees and shrubs. The twisted and wind-bent gnarly crippled oaks are my personal favourite.
I’ve made it a habit to revisit some places in all four seasons and witness the changes that these spots undergo in different times of year. The growth of new leaves in spring, full bloom in summer, the slow colourful decay in fall, and the naked tree skeletons in winter.
Here are some shots of crippled oaks taken in 2024 and 2025.
I find it fascinating how trees change their appearance over the course of time, but always maintain their original character.
