Weerribben-Wieden National Park
Flora & fauna
The Weerribben-Wieden National Park enjoys a rich biodiversity thanks to its varied landscape of water, reed beds and bog woodlands. The park is the habitat of the otter, a rare and protected species. The unique landscape is also home to birds such as bitterns, kingfishers, black terns, cormorants, egrets and buzzards. In addition to many animals, the wetland is also home to unusual plants, such as reed orchids and water lilies.
-
© MarketingOost -
© MarketingOost -
© Marketing Oost -
© Marketing Oost
Peat extraction
Weerribben-Wieden is a cultural landscape that was created in the 14th century through peat cutting. This peat was highly valuable as a fuel when dried, and was cut from the areas known as weren. The peat was then laid out to dry on long strips of lands, known as ribben, thus creating these unique wetlands. The traditions of reed cutting and fishing are still kept alive here.
Boating, hiking & cycling
The best way to explore National Park Weerribben-Wieden is on the water’s surface. You can sail, canoe or paddle board along the narrow waterways and through vast reed beds. Electric boats, rowboats and canoes can be rented in Giethoorn and other places in Weerribben-Wieden to sail through this gorgeous area in peace and quiet. There are well-marked routes for hikers and cyclists. Examples include the ’Stille Kiersche Wijde route’ or the ’Weerribben walking route’, where you can walk on unpaved paths that meander between quaking bogs and beautiful reed beds and past the duck decoys. Guided nature excursions offer additional insights into the wetland landscape and its flora and fauna.
More in the area
If you’re in the vicinity of Weerribben-Wieden National Park, villages such as Blokzijl and Kalenberg are definitely worth a visit. They exude a quiet, authentic atmosphere with winding waterways and historical buildings. But the now-dry islands of Schokland and Urk, or the pleasant Hanseatic towns of Hasselt and Kampen are absolutely worth a visit. For those interested in a genuine tourist highlight, Giethoorn – also known as the Venice of the Netherlands – is a short distance away.
Watch this video: National Park Weerribben-Wieden
Take a digital journey through the Netherlands Land of Water
Discover the Netherlands' water-rich cities, the most beautiful natural areas and the water icons that have made history in 360 degrees. Get ready for an unforgettable experience and get to know everything this beautiful land of water has to offer you. Start the unique ‘water experience’
Take a digital journey through the Netherlands Land of Water
Nature reserves in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has no fewer than 40 nature reserves, 21 of which are National Parks and 20 National Landscapes.
Read more