De Groote Peel National Park

A bird paradise

Every year there are about 200 species of birds flying around in De Groote Peel National Park. The nature reserve is one of the most bird-rich areas of the Netherlands. You can spot bluethroats, stonechats, yellowhammers, nightjars, little grebes, water rails and many other beautiful birds in this area. The pride of De Groote Peel is the majestic crane that often stops over during the long migration in October and November.

De Groote Peel National Park was once an important peat extraction area. This created a landscape of ponds, fens and marshes, which now serve as home to many other animals such as roe deer, weasels, stoats, voles, polecats and boar. Also for reptiles such as frogs and snakes, De Groote Peel is a great habitat. Finally, many butterflies, dragonflies and grasshoppers can be observed in the spring and summer.

Walking on the moor

De Groote Peel is and remains a wetland and that means a hiking trip is a special experience. The routes partly traverse log roads and log bridges. Several walking routes take you past heathland, ponds and open plains, where the soft peat moves under your feet. The visitor center de Pelen offers excursions with a guide who takes you through the National Park and explains the natural and cultural history of De Groote Peel.

More activities

The outdoor centre's shop sells useful items for heading out into nature, such as binoculars and walking maps, along with unique regional products. There are also special activities for children, such as treasure hunts and educational nature programmes. With its unique light and expansive views over the marshes, the park is also a great destination for photographers.